Is there evidence of a July effect among patients undergoing hysterectomy surgery?
Varma S, Mehta A, Hutfless S, et al. Is there evidence of a July effect among patients undergoing hysterectomy surgery? Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2018;219(2):176.e1-176.e9. doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2018.05.033.
Substantial debate continues as to whether the July effect—an increase in preventable adverse events in the summer when new resident physicians begin their training—represents a real phenomenon. Analyzing data across Maryland, investigators found no evidence for a seasonal increase in hysterectomy complication rates. A WebM&M commentary discussed possible interventions to reduce errors and care disruptions in July.