Journal of Asia Pacific Aesthetic Sciences

Abstract: Competence in practice management is essential for plastic surgeons, as it equips them with the necessary skills to operate their practices efficiently. To date, no formal evaluation of practice management knowledge and confidence among plastic surgeons in Malaysia has been conducted. This study aimed to assess the confidence in practice management among plastic surgeons in the country. A survey was distributed to plastic and reconstructive surgeons who are members of the Malaysian Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (MSPRS). Participants' knowledge and confidence in eight core principles of practice management relevant to plastic surgery were assessed using a 10-point Likert scale, where a score of 1 indicated a lack of knowledge and confidence, while a score of 10 indicated a high level of knowledge and confidence. A total of 27 out of 80 MSPRS members responded to the survey, resulting in a 33.75% response rate, which is relatively low. Most respondents were male (55.6%), aged 30–40 years (66.7%), had less than five years of experience (63.0%), and worked in Ministry of Health, Malaysia hospitals (59.3%), which are government-based institutions. The study revealed that most participants (92.6%) had not received formal training in practice management skills. Furthermore, their knowledge and confidence in practice management were generally low, with scores ranging from 3 to 4.5. However, due to the low response rate, a comprehensive understanding of practice management knowledge and confidence among plastic and reconstructive surgeons in Malaysia remains limited. Further investigation is needed to accurately assess the current situation. Nevertheless, the findings highlight the importance of incorporating structured practice management training to strengthen the non-clinical competencies of plastic surgeons in Malaysia. As part of ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency and sustainability of surgical services, it is recommended that such training be integrated into postgraduate surgical education and continuing professional development (CPD) programs. These initiatives could ultimately enhance both the clinical and non-clinical competencies of plastic surgeons in the country.</p>