Homeschooling Surgery Students: Washington State University’s Longitudinal Integrated Clerkship Transitioned to a Hybrid-Virtual Platform Triggered by the COVID-19 Pandemic

When COVID-19 curtailed elective surgeries, our college transitioned to a virtual platform. “Benched” surgeons statewide engaged students online. Third-year students who had completed 2/3 of a longitudinal integrated clerkship (LIC) studied online modules on topics germane to surgery for 1 week. Core entrustable professional activities (EPAs) for entering residency were the backbone of lessons/assignments/assessments. Surgeons coached students around EPAs. Fifty-eight students in consistent small groups, spent 2 hours/day for 4 days with the same pair of surgeon coaches. Off-line, students created a unique hypothetical case/day, practiced and peer-reviewed EPAs. Online, coaches posed scenarios to drill EPAs. Pre/during/post assessments demonstrated progressive proficiency. High level of engagement resulted in 100% attendance and ease of recruitment/retention of faculty. Although variability in students’ clinical settings was high, a virtual week had aided in leveling the learning environment. Prior experience with 2/3 of their total surgery exposure in the LIC allowed for a smooth transition to virtual.