There is no literature on the administrative chief resident (ACR) in surgery or disparities of this leadership position.

The aim of this study is to examine the rates of perceived female and minority leadership at the resident level.

After institutional review board (IRB) approval, a pilot survey was sent to surgical residents and faculty at a single university surgical program. The survey was revised based on small group feedback and a specialist in study design. It was then sent to all US surgical residents and program directors, and analyzed using Survey Monkey.

There was a 10% resident response rate, 22% program director, most from a program with 50% female residents. 71% report no clear ACR policy, 64% believe the position appointed. Half report less than 25% female ACRs, 54% zero minority ACRs. Program directors reported more female ACRs, but similar lack of selection policy. 54% believe ACR receives a stipend. 31% report more than 75% went into academics.

Although most surgical programs train 50% female residents, residents perceive that fewer than 25% ACRs are female. ACRs in the United States are often receiving a stipend and going into academic practice. Programs should keep diversity in mind in appointing ACR.