Geographical Distribution and Trends Analysis of Osteopathic General Surgery Residents

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Osteopathic Medicine

Background:

• The number of Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) residents entering general surgery has seen a notable increase.
• Understanding the integration and distribution of DOs in surgical residency programs is crucial for applicants and program directors.
• DOs are increasingly solidifying their roles within the surgical domain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the geographical distribution and match trends of DO residents in general surgery programs nationwide.
• To provide insights into the evolving landscape of surgical training opportunities for osteopathic physicians.
• To identify potential disparities in access to surgical residency positions for DOs.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional analysis was performed using publicly available data for DO general surgery residents.
• Data included post-graduate year, degrees held, and residency program location.
• Trends were analyzed from 2019 to 2024.

Main Results:

• A significant rise in DOs entering general surgery residencies was observed, from 153 in 2019 to 274 in 2024.
• Geographical distribution of programs where DO applicants matched showed nationwide variations.
• The data indicates a growing presence and integration of DOs in surgical practice.

Conclusions:

• There is a clear upward trend in DOs pursuing general surgery residencies.
• Understanding geographical match trends is essential for addressing potential disparities in surgical training access.
• Further analysis is needed to support osteopathic physicians in surgical careers.