Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
09:07
Author Spotlight: Advancing Endoscopic Ossiculoplasty – Techniques, Innovations, and Practical Guidance for Clinical Integration
Published on: January 26, 2024
3.4K
Anonymous Applicant Feedback on Otolaryngology Residency Programs via Otomatch
Samantha Little1, Natasha Gengler1, Jack Nickles1
1Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, USA.
Ear, Nose, & Throat Journal
|February 19, 2026
Summary
Otolaryngology residency applicants on Otomatch.com frequently praise positive interactions and surgical training. Negative feedback often concerns interpersonal dynamics and call schedules, offering insights for program improvement.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Otolaryngology Residency
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- Otomatch.com serves as a platform for otolaryngology residency applicants to share anonymous feedback.
- Understanding applicant perceptions is crucial for residency program development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To qualitatively analyze comments on Otomatch.com.
- To identify key program attributes and experiences discussed by applicants.
Main Methods:
- Extracted comments from 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 application cycles.
- Coded each comment by theme, sub-theme, and sentiment (positive, negative, neutral).
Main Results:
- Analyzed 1791 comments: 56.8% positive, 21.6% negative, 21.6% neutral.
- Top themes: interpersonal relationships (30.4%), subinternship rotation (17.6%), surgical training (15.6%).
- Positive feedback focused on resident/attending interactions and culture; negative feedback highlighted interactions and call schedules.
Conclusions:
- Applicant feedback frequently emphasizes inclusive culture, strong surgical training, and positive interactions.
- Negative comments often relate to interpersonal experiences and call schedules.
- Findings can guide program leadership in refining the applicant experience.
