Changes in Otolaryngology Residency Websites Since Preference Signaling Began

Since 2021, applicants to Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (OHNS) residencies have been able to send preference signals to a limited number of programs to express genuine interest. For the preference signaling system to be fruitful, prospective applicants must be well informed about the available programs early in the application process. This study reports on changes to OHNS residency program websites, with the goal of providing applicants with necessary information.

All 125 Electronic Residency Application Service-participating OHNS residency program websites were evaluated as of April 2024 for the presence of 41 specific content items. The results were compared to a published 2021 dataset using two sample proportions tests. p values were calculated using the Benjamini-Hochberg correction for multiple comparisons. Significance was set for p < 0.05.

Overall, program websites' content items increased by 15.3% since 2021. Items that increased > 30% and p < 0.001 were: "message from the residents," "message from chairperson," "statement on diversity, equity, and inclusion," "message from the program director," "surgical case/responsibility progression," and "information about the city." In addition, there was a moderate correlation between the number of content items and programs first-year class sizes (rho = 0.33, 95% CI (0.16, 0.48), p value < 0.001).

OHNS residency program website content has increased since 2021 with a focus on showcasing culture, environment, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. While the causal relationship of preference signaling was not established, the enhancement in website content was a positive step toward a more transparent and informed application process.