Perspectives on the Plastic Surgery Common Application (PSCA): A Survey of 2021–2022 Integrated Plastic Surgery Applicants

Abstract

Background: The Plastic Surgery Common Application (PSCA) was introduced as a free and specialty-specific application for plastic surgery applicants in the 2020–2021 cycle. Now in its second year, the PSCA is being piloted by all integrated residency programs with future plans to replace Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) in the 2022–2023 cycle. This study aimed to explore applicant perspectives related to the PSCA and ERAS applications. Methods: An anonymous survey was distributed to integrated plastic surgery residency applicants from the 2021–2022 application cycle. Participants were asked to provide basic demographic information, their perspectives of the PSCA, and overall application preference. Results: One hundred forty (43.1%) applicants completed the survey. Nearly, 63% of applicants responded “slightly well” or “not well at all” regarding their ability to highlight at least one aspect of their application. Forty-one percent of applicants believed ERAS best highlighted the strengths of their application compared with 27% who believed their strengths were better highlighted by the PSCA. Seventy-nine percent reported the cost savings associated with the PSCA were “very” or “extremely important.” Overall, 63% of respondents reported a preference to apply with the PSCA alone. Conclusions: This is the first study to provide insight on applicants' perspectives of the PSCA. Although the majority preferred applying with the PSCA, there may be challenges with transitioning to this application solely. Future iterations of the PSCA may aim to ameliorate functionality concerns, optimize application content, and incorporate plastic surgery-specific information that may be important to selection committees.