Surveying Obstetrics and Gynecology Residents About Their Residency Applications, Interviews, and Ranking

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2021

Abstract

Background

Residency applications have increased in the last decade, creating growing challenges for applicants and programs. Objective

We evaluated factors associated with application and match into obstetrics and gynecology residency. Methods

During the annual in-training examination administered to all obstetrics and gynecology residents in the United States, residents were surveyed on the residency application process. Results

Ninety-five percent (5094 of 5347) residents responded to the survey. Thirty-six percent reported applying to 30 or fewer programs, 26.7% applied to more than 31 programs, and 37.1% opted not to answer this question. Forty-nine percent of residents received honors in their obstetrics and gynecology clerkship and 37.1% did not. The majority of residents (88.6%) reported scoring between 200 and 250 on USMLE Step 1. Eighty-six percent matched into one of their top 5 programs. The only factor associated with matching in residents' top 5 programs was receiving honors in their clerkship (OR 1.29; 95% CI 1.08–1.54; P < .005). The only factor associated with matching below the top 5 programs was a couples match (OR 0.56; 95% CI 0.43–0.72; P < .001). In choosing where to apply, residents identified program location and reputation as the most important factors, while for ranking, location and residency culture were the most important. Conclusions

Most obstetrics and gynecology residents reported matching into their top 5 choices. Receiving an honors grade in the clerkship was the only factor associated with matching in applicants' top 5 programs. Location was the most important factor for applying to and ranking of programs. Objectives

We sought to better understand the factors associated with the resident match in obstetrics and gynecology. Findings

Most residents in obstetrics and gynecology matched into 1 of their top 5 choices and cited location as the top reason for application to and ranking of programs. Limitations

This survey, given at the time of the in-training examination, included residents from one specialty who were matched into programs between 2014 and 2017. Bottom Line

Overapplication to residency programs for many students is likely unnecessary; an evidence-based approach to the match process is needed to improve the current system.

Publication Title

Journal of Graduate Medical Education

Volume

13

Issue

2

First Page

257

Last Page

265

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS