How to phase II: Timelines, perceptions, and suggestions from PGY-1 residency program directors.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Residency Matching
• Graduate Medical Education

Background:

• Phase II was established in 2016 to structure interactions between pharmacy residency applicants and programs with unfilled positions.
• Existing literature offers guidance, but clarity is needed on navigating Phase II for successful matches.
• Continuous evaluation of Phase II is necessary given its operation for over six years.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the structure and timelines of Phase II for pharmacy residency programs.
• To assess program personnel demand within Phase II.
• To gather perceptions and suggestions from Residency Program Directors (RPDs) to enhance Phase II for all stakeholders.

Main Methods:

• A 31-item survey was distributed to PGY-1 RPDs participating in Phase II in June 2021 and May 2022.
• The survey included demographic, timeline-specific, interview screening, and qualitative questions.
• Reminders were sent weekly, achieving a 37.2% response rate (180 out of 484 RPDs).

Main Results:

• Participating programs averaged 1.4 open Phase II positions with 31 applicants per position.
• Significant variability was observed in application screening, applicant contact, and interview timelines.
• RPDs valued the structured process and applicant quality but cited challenges with application volume, review time, and technical issues.

Conclusions:

• Phase II represents an improvement over previous matching methods, offering a more structured approach.
• Variability in program timelines persists, indicating a need for refinement.
• Respondents suggested extending the Phase II timeline, implementing a universal application deadline, and improving technical aspects.