A content and quality evaluation of ACGME-accredited reproductive endocrinology and infertility fellowship program webpages

Purpose To analyze the content of websites of ACGME-accredited REI fellowship programs in the USA and to determine whether there are differences in content across geographic regions. Methods All ACGME-accredited REI fellowship websites active as of September 2020 were evaluated and reviewed using 20 criteria in the following nine domains: program overview, contact information, application information, curriculum, current fellows, research, alumni, faculty, and fellowship benefits. Website content was compared across geographic regions (Northeast, Midwest, South, and West) of the USA. Analyses were completed using chi-squared univariate tests with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results Out of the 49 accredited REI fellowship programs, 45 (92%) had a dedicated website. The most commonly available information included a program description (88%), clinical sites (84%), and application requirements (78%). Programs less commonly shared information regarding research requirements and didactics (65% for each). Current fellows were featured in 55% of websites with their pictures displayed in 41% and ongoing research in 20%. Salary and alumni information were included in only 14% and 12% of sites, respectively. When comparing content by geographic region, programs in the South had less information regarding application requirements (p < 0.001), interview dates (p = 0.03), and clinical sites (p = 0.04) compared to all other regions. Conclusions REI fellowship websites have significant variability in content available to applicants, and many are lacking information about core fellowship requirements. An informative and well-constructed website has the potential to improve perception of a graduate program.