We distributed an anonymous online survey to U.S. adult neurology program directors (PDs). The survey addressed program demographics, components and length of parental leave, perceived impact on residents’ clinical training and academic development, and barriers to augmenting the policy.

We contacted 163 PDs and received 54 responses (response rate of 33%). 87% of programs had policies for both childbearing and non-childbearing residents. The average maximal length of leave without extension of training was 8.5 weeks (range 0-13) for childbearing residents and 6.2 weeks (0-13) for non-childbearing residents. 65% offered full pay and benefits during the leave, and a majority did not require full use of vacation (51%) or elective time (59%). 42% had policies for reducing clinical rotations to create a leave. The majority of PDs felt that parental leave had a positive impact on resident wellness and neutral impact on clinical competency, academic opportunities, and career development. PDs stated that the most common barriers to providing a 12-week paid policy were concerns about equity in the program and impact on other trainees (82%), staffing of clinical services (80%), and impact on clinical training (78%).

Although most adult U.S. neurology programs in our cross-sectional study have established parental leave policies, there is significant variability regarding the duration of leave and the composition of leave that is offered. Policies to improve parental leave should focus on addressing commonly perceived barriers, such as additional solutions to staffing clinical services.