Predictors of Ophthalmology Resident Performance From Medical Student Application Materials

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Residency selection is critical for ophthalmology.
• Predictors of resident success require identification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify elements within ophthalmology residency applications that predict future resident performance.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of application materials from 2006-2018 graduates across seven US programs.
• Resident performance scored in clinical, surgical, academic, and global domains by faculty.
• Statistical analysis using Spearman correlation and linear/logistic regression.

Main Results:

• Higher United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 scores than the national average correlated with significantly better performance in all four domains.
• Honors in at least four core clerkships and membership in Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society were also associated with higher performance scores.
• First-attempt passage of American Board of Ophthalmology examinations correlated with higher USMLE Step 1/2 scores and resident performance.

Conclusions:

• USMLE Step 1 scores and academic achievements are significant predictors of ophthalmology resident performance.
• Findings can inform selection committees in a holistic review process, especially with the Step 1 score moving to pass/fail.