Do Medical and Surgical Residents Exercise Their Right to Vote? A Retrospect Multi-Center Study

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

11-1-2024

Publication Title

J Am Coll Surg

Abstract

Introduction: Voting is an essential right afforded to all citizens. Resident physicians traditionally have poor voting turn out based on prior studies. We aim to quantify voting participation and identify barriers to voting amongst both medical and surgical residents. Methods: Medical and surgical residents were given anonymous retrospective surveys on voting participation in the 2024 Michigan Primary presidential elections. Voting resources and election information was disseminated to residents prior to election day. Voting turn out, continued obstacles to voting and demographics were collected. Results: In initial data review, 82% of responders did not vote in the Michigan Primary presidential elections. Most common reasons reported for not voting included no time to vote, does not feel knowledgeable of candidates, and forgot to apply for absentee balloting. The majority of non-voters cited that increased protected time to arrange absentee balloting and utilization of the hospital as a voting site would have increased the probability of casting their vote. Of the residents that did vote, the majority did so via absentee balloting. Conclusion: Many residents of both medical and surgical subspecialties did not exercise their right to vote in the 2024 Michigan Primary presidential election. Absentee balloting may be the preferred route for young medical professionals. This emphasizes the need to address continued barriers to voting for this population.

Volume

239

Issue

5

First Page

S429

Find It @ Sladen

Share

COinS