Results of the 1995 National Resident Matching Program: family practice

The 1995 National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) results broke records in the number of positions filled in family practice residencies, with an increase of 11.8% over 1994 figures (2,563 vs 2,293) and an increase of 12.5% in positions filled with US seniors (2,081 vs 1,850). This is the largest number of US seniors choosing family practice in the NRMP's history. In keeping with the trend that began in 1992, 7% more positions were filled on July 1, 1995, than were filled at the same time in 1994 (3,252 vs 3,040). Internal medicine residencies matched 74 more US seniors in 1995, and pediatric residencies matched 84 more US seniors. Given the anticipated career choices of students entering residency training in the generalist disciplines (95% of students matching in family practice, 60% of students matching in pediatrics, and 45% of students matching in internal medicine), it is expected that 33.5% of the class of 1995 (Liaison Committee on Medical Education-accredited medical schools) will practice as generalists. First-year positions offered in family practice through the NRMP increased 6%, and the number of Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education-accredited family practice residency programs increased 3% (421 vs 410). With continued increased interest in family practice as a career choice and the need for more family physicians, support for the nation's family practice residency programs continues to be of critical importance.