The ophthalmology residency match: a new era

The average number of applications per ophthalmology residency applicant continues to rise. The present article reviews the history and negative impacts of this trend, the dearth of effective solutions and the potential promise of preference signalling as an alternative strategy to address this and potentially improve match outcomes.

Application inflation adversely impacts applicants and programmes and undermines holistic review. Most recommendations to limit volume have been largely unsuccessful or undesirable. Preference signalling does not restrict applications. Early results from initial pilots in other specialties are promising. Signalling has the potential to facilitate holistic review, reduce interview hoarding and promote equitable distribution of interviews.

Preliminary data suggest preference signalling could be a useful strategy to address current issues with the Match. Building upon the blueprints and experiences of our colleagues, Ophthalmology should conduct its own investigation and consider a pilot project.