Abstract
BACKGROUND: The medical residency model, established over a century ago, remains the gold standard for medical education. Given its increasing significance in imparting expertise in medical specialties, understanding the profile of residents and changes over time is crucial. AIMS: This study aimed to assess graduates of digestive surgery and coloproctology residency programs at Hospital das Clínicas of the Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HCFMUSP) regarding their professional, academic, and research activities. It also aimed to analyze changes in resident profiles over the years, the impact of postgraduation on professional activities, and differences between graduates working in São Paulo capital and elsewhere. METHODS: A digital survey with 42 questions was sent to graduates who commenced training between 1979 and 2021. Results were analyzed in subgroups based on two eras (Era 1: 1979-2000; Era 2: 2001-2021), the impact of postgraduation, and respondents' work locations. RESULTS: The survey was responded by 213 graduates (87.6%). The training significantly impacted all respondents' professional lives, with 92.5% willing to choose the same specialty again. Graduates from Era 2 showed a higher proportion of females, residents of cities other than São Paulo, and graduates from institutions outside FMUSP. Postgraduate responders were more involved in academic and research activities, publishing more papers, holding societal memberships, and performing more robot-assisted procedures. Those outside São Paulo capital were more involved in endoscopic procedures and associated with medical insurance. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of graduates considered medical residency fundamental for career development. Social and economic changes influenced residents' profiles and post-program activities.