Characteristics of Graduating Pediatric Residents Starting Chief Resident Positions, 2009-2023

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pediatric Residency
• Leadership Training

Background:

• Chief resident positions offer valuable leadership experience.
• Understanding the demographics of those who attain these roles is crucial for equity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the proportion of pediatric residents who become chief residents.
• To identify demographic and program characteristics associated with securing a chief resident position.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 15 years (2009-2023) of national random sample survey data from graduating pediatric residents.
• Used chi-squared tests for trend analysis and multivariable logistic regression to identify associated factors.

Main Results:

• The proportion of residents starting chief positions remained stable at approximately 12.8% over the study period.
• Graduating from a US medical school was associated with higher odds of becoming a chief resident (aOR=1.52).
• Asian, Other race/ethnicity, and Hispanic residents had lower odds compared to white residents.

Conclusions:

• About 1 in 8 pediatric residents transition into chief resident roles.
• Chief resident selection is more common among US medical school graduates and white individuals.