COVID-19 pandemic impact on urology residencies in Asia - An observational study

Objective: The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic affected surgical training in many ways. This observational study was carried out to evaluate the impact of Covid-19 on urological residencies across Asia. Methodology: An open-ended survey questionnaire examining key areas in a urology training program was distributed to several urologists in Asia. The survey evaluated seven areas including the burden of Covid-19 disease, the need for re-deployment of residents, the impact on clinical work, the effect on research work for residents, the delivery of teaching to the residents, the impact on training and assessments, the effects on mental, personal health and social welfare of residents. Results: Reports from 11 Asian countries were analysed. There is stark variability in Covid-19 disease burden across Asia. Re-deployment occurred in selected Asian countries. Affected residents reported challenges obtaining personal protective equipment and training. Clinical workload and research were generally reduced except for countries reporting low volume Covid-19 cases. Residents teaching evolved from in-person to online platforms. Almost all residency program postponed their examinations. Mental health disturbance was more pronounced than personal health. Conclusions: The Covid-19 pandemic presented multiple obstacles to Asian urology residencies. The understanding of these challenges will assist program directors in developing mitigating measures.