Analysis on the use of digital tools by generations in the departments of surgery

Abstract

Background: The departments of surgery in public hospitals are staffed by a diverse group of professionals who, depending on years year of their birth, are classified as Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials and Generation Z. The introduction of digital tools (DTs) has transformed medical practice by optimizing healthcare activities, academic activities and administrative activities. However, their use in the surgical field has not yet been investigated in relation to different generations.
Objective: The aim of the present study was to analyze the type of DTs used by physicians in the departments of surgery and their frequency of use, according to the generation to which they belong.
Material and methods: We conducted an observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study to analyze the frequency of use of DTs among physicians of the department of surgery at a public hospital. A self-administered questionnaire with 10 closed questions was distributed primarily via instant messaging.
Results: The response rate was 60% (n = 89), with 81% (44/54) of residents and 47% (45/95) of staff physicians responding. Younger generations (Millennials and Generation Z) engage with digital tools more frequently than older generations, particularly using communication and educational apps.
Conclusion: Millennials and Generation Z used more types of DTs and more frequently than other generations.