NRMP couples match outcomes for internal medicine residents

The National Residency Match Program considers a successful Couples Match when both parties match, regardless of location. However, there is a dearth of data on Couples Match outcomes compared to normal Match Outcomes.

To compare the success rates, geographic preferences, and application preparation between Couples Match and traditional Match applicants within the specialty of internal medicine.

An anonymous, cross-sectional, two-part REDCap survey was designed for standard and Couples Match residents. This survey was distributed via email to 437 academic United States internal medicine program directors from 1 October 2022 to 31 December 2023. Questions focused on post-match satisfaction, pre-application priorities, and number of interviews conducted. Around 248 residents completed the survey across the 437 internal medicine residency programs initially contacted.

64% (52/82) of Couples Match participants felt the need to make compromises to ensure dual matching. Compared to standard applicants, Couples Match applicants were significantly less likely to match in their top three ranked programs (89% vs. 67%, P < 0.01). When asked how to rate their perceived stress during the match process on a scale of 1-10, Couples Match respondents reported significantly higher perceived stress than their standard match counterparts (7.85 ± 1.30 vs. 7.13 ± 1.74) (P < 0.001).

We found that Couples Match applicants had differing pre-match priorities, significantly less likelihood of matching in their top three programs, and significantly higher perceived levels of stress. Our study highlights the unique needs and stressors of medical students who are applying to internal medicine through the Couples Match. Key messages What is already known on this topic: While the NRMP Couples Match boasts a high overall success rate, little is known about specialty-specific outcomes, applicant satisfaction, or the personal and professional compromises made by couples, particularly within internal medicine. What this study adds: This is the first national study to quantify internal medicine Couples Match outcomes, revealing that these applicants face significantly higher stress, are less likely to match at top-choice programs, and frequently compromise on prestige, geography, and personal priorities to match with their partner. How this study might affect research, practice, or policy: These insights underscore the need for tailored advising, informed program recruitment strategies, and potential policy considerations to better support the unique constraints faced by Couples Match applicants-enhancing both resident well-being and match satisfaction.