Mini Surgical Simulation, Role Play, and Group and Behavioral Interviews in Resident Selection

A robust selection process is critical to residents' "cultural fit" and success in their program. Traditional selection methods have shortcomings.

We describe a novel residency interview process for obstetrics-gynecology residents that incorporates behavioral, group, and surgical simulation multiple mini interviews (MMIs).

In 2010, the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center obstetrics-gynecology residency program developed surgical simulation, role play, ethics group interview, and Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education competency-based behavioral interview stations.

From 2010 to 2012, a total of 199 applicants were interviewed, 62 ranked in the top 20, and 18 matched into the program. The MMI scores for interview stations were used in compiling our rank list and were found to adequately differentiate candidates. The MMI mean scores for role play, ethics interview, surgical simulation, and the behavioral interview for the top 20 ranked candidates were statistically significantly higher than those for other applicants. Standardized tests minimally correlated with various interview modalities. Applicants found the interview process acceptable. Implementing these MMI stations increased the total applicant interview time for the day by 15% (from 5.5 to 6.5 hours) and increased the face-to-face interview time from 2 to 4 hours. Approximately 42 hours of coordinator time was required for the yearly interview cycle.

A multifaceted interview process utilizing MMI, group interview, and surgical simulation MMI is feasible and acceptable. The approach may decrease subjectivity and reliance on traditional interview methods and facilitate the selection of "compatible" residents into the program.