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Virtual Pediatric Orthopaedic Fellowship Interviews During the Pandemic: What Did the Applicants and Programs Think?
Paul M Inclan1,2, Marcella R Woiczik3, Jason Cummings1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis.
Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics
|June 8, 2022
Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic shifted fellowship interviews to a virtual format, allowing applicants to attend more interviews and save money. Approximately half of applicants and program directors prefer continuing virtual interviews.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Training
- Fellowship Programs
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a shift to virtual interviews for the 2020-2021 fellowship application cycle.
- Limited data exists on the impact of virtual interviews on fellowship applicants and programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the implications of virtual interviews on the fellowship application process for both applicants and program directors.
- To assess applicant and program director satisfaction and preferences regarding virtual versus in-person interviews.
Main Methods:
- Two surveys were distributed by the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA) Fellowship Training and Practice Qualifications Committee.
- Surveys targeted 2020-2021 fellowship applicants and program directors to gather data on the virtual interview season.
Main Results:
- 45 applicants and 34 program directors responded. Applicants applied to and accepted more interviews virtually, saving over $2000. Program directors interviewed more applicants per position without compromising quality.
- 48.5% of applicants and 50% of program directors favored retaining virtual interviews even if in-person options were available.
Conclusions:
- Virtual interviews in the 2020-2021 cycle increased accessibility for applicants and expanded reach for programs.
- A significant portion of both applicants and program directors support the continuation of virtual interviews in future application cycles.
