Bleeding Disorder Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Training: A National Survey

Study ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to assess the educational approach to the bleeding disorder evaluation in Obstetrics and Gynecology residency training programs in the continental United States. Information was sought from chief residents regarding training experiences and fund of knowledge regarding the evaluation of menorrhagia and diagnosis of bleeding disorders during their residency.DesignA 24-item questionnaire was sent to the chief residents at 241 non-military Obstetrics and Gynecology residency programs.SettingThe study was conducted at Texas Children’s Health Plan in Houston, Texas.ParticipantsChief residents at 241 non-military Obstetrics and Gynecology residency programs.Main Outcome MeasuresResponses to questionnaires.ResultsThe overall response rate was 30%. Residents reported training in the medical evaluation of menorrhagia during residency with a mean of 9.1 hours per year in the first year of residency and 11.1 hours/year in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th years; 67.7% reported they viewed their training in the medical evaluation of menorrhagia and bleeding disorders as sufficient preparation for clinical practice; and over two thirds reported specific training in common bleeding disorders, such as von Willebrand disease.ConclusionThe current state of training in the evaluation of menorrhagia and bleeding disorders appeared to be mixed regarding the evaluation of dysfunctional uterine bleeding. An area for improvement was identified to better approach best clinical practice in the evaluation of women with menorrhagia and underlying bleeding disorders, which can be guided by the thoughtful approach taken in the recent NHLBI von Willebrand disease guidelines.