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Applicant Perspectives on the Otolaryngology Residency Application Process
Matthew Ward1, Christian Pingree1, Adrienne M Laury1
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education Consortium, Ft Sam Houston, Texas.
JAMA Otolaryngology-- Head & Neck Surgery
|May 26, 2017
Summary
Medical students applying to otolaryngology-head and neck surgery (OHNS) residencies often apply to programs without interest to improve match chances. Applicants desire application caps and better online information for a fairer OHNS residency selection process.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Residency Admissions
- Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Training
Background:
- The otolaryngology-head and neck surgery (OHNS) residency application process has not been evaluated from the applicant's perspective in nearly 25 years.
- Understanding current applicant viewpoints is crucial for optimizing the residency selection system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the perceptions of 2016 OHNS residency applicants regarding the application process.
- To identify areas for improvement and propose reforms for the OHNS residency match.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study utilizing anonymous online surveys administered to 2016 OHNS residency applicants.
- Survey design was informed by a comprehensive literature search (1990-2015) on medical student applications and otolaryngology matches.
- Data collection involved program director distribution and online posting, with responses gathered over two months.
Main Results:
- A 40.5% response rate (150/370) was achieved among OHNS residency applicants.
- A significant majority (90.6%) applied to programs without specific interest to enhance their matching prospects.
- Applicants found online program information insufficient (80.7%) and expressed willingness for application caps (64.3%).
Conclusions:
- Applicant mentorship and peer support are vital for improving the OHNS residency selection process.
- Standardized criteria for residency program websites and exploring alternative match platforms with features like hard caps are recommended.
- Addressing applicant concerns can lead to systemic improvements in the otolaryngology residency match.
