Virtual Interviews: A Cross-Sectional Quality Improvement Project Aimed to Improve the Interview Process in an...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Residency Recruitment
• Virtual Interviewing

Background:

• Residency interviews are critical for program selection and trainee assessment.
• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a shift to virtual interview formats.
• Optimizing the virtual interview process is essential for effective recruitment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and identify areas for improvement in the virtual residency interview process.
• To gather applicant feedback on virtual interview components.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire-based study was conducted among 2022 residency interview applicants.
• A survey was emailed to 600 interviewed candidates; 230 responded.
• The 11-point questionnaire assessed various aspects of the virtual interview experience.

Main Results:

• A hybrid virtual and in-person interview format was favored by most applicant groups (37.5%-42.8%).
• Updated program websites with comprehensive information were highly utilized (84.5%-95%).
• American Medical Graduates (AMGs) prioritized resident interaction (32.50%), while International Medical Graduates (IMGs) emphasized website details and program information.

Conclusions:

• Internal Medicine programs must refine virtual interview strategies in the post-COVID-19 era.
• Understanding and addressing candidate preferences is key to improving the virtual interview process.
• Future recruitment should balance virtual efficiency with essential candidate-focused information.