Residency Rewired: An Analysis of Otolaryngology Residency Programs on Websites and Social Media

To evaluate all ACGME-accredited otolaryngology residency programs by reviewing websites and social media to determine if there is a correlation between program ranking and online presence. Findings will identify key considerations for perceived program reputation and areas of improvement.

This study was a cross-sectional analysis of programs.

This study took place between April and June 2024.

Four independent reviewers evaluated the program websites using an online tool that assessed each program on both recruitment and education criteria; composite scores were used for the data analysis. A second section of the evaluation tool analyzed the social media presence of the residency programs.

Programs were grouped based on the latest Doximity program ranking in groups of 25, with Group 1 being the top 25 and Group 5 being the bottom 25 plus unranked programs. Programs in Group 5 had worse website evaluation scores (p < 0.05) as well as social media overall scores (p < 0.05). Additionally, programs in the west had the highest average social media scores (p < 0.05).

We conclude that programs with a lower Doximity program ranking typically have a worse online presence, with the recruitment section being the worst score. Most ENT residency program evaluation literature dates to the COVID-19 pandemic; our hope is for this study to bring a new perspective to program leadership and how their online presence might affect applicant perception of the program when they are choosing which ones they may apply to. Level of Evidence: N/A.