Should Radiology Residency Interviews Remain Virtual? Results of a Multi-institutional Survey Inform the Debate

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Radiology Residency Recruitment
• Virtual Interview Technology

Background:

• The 2020-2021 virtual interview season for radiology residency selection was the first of its kind.
• There is ongoing debate regarding the permanent adoption of virtual interviews in graduate medical education.
• This study assesses the inaugural virtual interview season to inform future discussions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and perceptions of the 2020-2021 virtual radiology residency interview season.
• To gather data from program directors and applicants on their experiences and attitudes.
• To inform the decision-making process regarding the future of radiology residency interviews.

Main Methods:

• Surveys with 44 questions for program directors (PDs) and 39 questions for applicants were distributed.
• Data collection focused on demographics, technology experience, and attitudes toward virtual interviews.
• Surveys were administered via the Radiology Residency Education Research Alliance.

Main Results:

• High satisfaction rates were reported: 80% of PDs and 76% of applicants found the season excellent or very good.
• A majority of PDs (60%) and applicants (80%) agreed that the benefits of virtual interviews outweighed the drawbacks.
• Key benefits identified were applicant equity and wellness; detriments included over-application and interview hoarding.

Conclusions:

• Virtual interviews serve as a viable alternative to traditional in-person interviews for radiology residency.
• Significant advantages include improvements in applicant wellness, equity, and financial considerations.
• Challenges such as over-application can be addressed with practical solutions.