Two-year experience with a computerized matching programme for allocation of pre-registration house posts in Wales

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Healthcare Administration
• Computer Science Applications

Background:

• The computerized house job matching program in Wales faced challenges with participation and private allocations in its initial years (1981-82).
• A significant percentage of medical posts were allocated outside the established computer system, indicating inefficiencies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the operational effectiveness of the computerized house job matching program in Wales for the 1981-82 and 1982-83 periods.
• To assess the impact of encouraging adherence to the matching procedure on system efficiency and post allocation.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from the computerized house job matching program in Wales for two consecutive academic years.
• Comparison of post allocation methods and success rates before and after active encouragement for procedural adherence.

Main Results:

• In 1981-82, up to 35% of students secured positions before the program, with 58% of posts allocated outside the computer system.
• Following active encouragement, the 1982-83 period saw a dramatic improvement, with less than 5% of posts allocated privately.

Conclusions:

• Computerized matching programs are highly suitable for allocating a large volume of jobs across extensive areas.
• Consideration should be given to establishing a United Kingdom national computerized matching program to enhance efficiency and standardization.