Finding the Perfect Match: Factors That Influence Family Medicine Residency Selection

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Physician Training
• Family Medicine

Background:

• Residency program selection is a critical decision for physicians.
• Limited data exists on how medical students choose residency programs.
• This study focuses on factors influencing family medicine residency selection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the factors influencing residency program selection among medical students interested in family medicine.
• To identify key criteria used by applicants in narrowing down their program choices.

Main Methods:

• A 37-item online survey was administered to medical students interested in family medicine.
• Participants rated selection factors using a 6-point Likert scale and answered qualitative questions.
• Logistic regression analysis identified predictors for interest in urban, suburban, rural, academic, and community-based residencies.

Main Results:

• 705 medical students from 32 states completed the survey.
• Location, work-life balance, and program structure were the most important selection factors.
• Logistic regression refined the understanding of factor influence on specific residency types.

Conclusions:

• Findings inform advising medical students on residency selection.
• Results aid residency programs in targeted recruitment strategies.
• Optimizing recruitment ensures better applicant-program fit and resource utilization.