Transition to multiple mini interview (MMI) interviewing for medical school admissions

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Admissions Processes
• Applicant Assessment

Background:

• The multiple mini interview (MMI) is utilized in US medical school admissions for holistic review.
• MMI assesses interpersonal and intrapersonal attributes essential for future physicians.
• A hypothesis proposed minimal difference between MMI and traditional interview ratings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of the multiple mini interview (MMI) with traditional interviews in medical school admissions.
• To analyze evaluation data and demographic variables from a hybrid interview model.

Main Methods:

• The University of North Carolina School of Medicine implemented a hybrid interview process (traditional and MMI) in 2019.
• Data from 608 MD program applicants were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Main Results:

• The MMI format showed a slight preference for female applicants (p=0.002).
• No significant bias was observed based on age, race/ethnicity, rural upbringing, or disadvantage indicators.
• 59% of applicants positively rated the hybrid interview experience via post-interview surveys.

Conclusions:

• A hybrid model combining traditional interviews and MMI stations provides comprehensive applicant assessment.
• This approach yields detailed evaluation data equivalent to traditional methods.
• The hybrid model demonstrates high acceptability among medical school applicants.