« Back to Search
Can Standardization of Interview Processes Reduce Anxiety and Distraction? Applicant Perspectives
Purpose: The project “Transforming the UME to GME Transition for Obstetrics and Gynecology- Right Resident, Right Program, Ready Day One (RRR)” addresses the challenges of the OB/GYN residency application process by adapting new standards meant to reduce anxiety and minimize distractions for medical students.
Background: OB/GYN residency applications per applicant have drastically increased. The Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics received a 5-year Reimagining Residency Grant from the American Medical Association in 2019, to improve the OB/GYN residency application process.
Methods: The RRR project leadership team developed a 15-item OB/GYN resident application survey for medical students, including questions regarding demographics, perceptions of standards, and the interview process. Responses were measured on a 5-item Likert scale.
Results: 36.04% (n=764) medical students provided complete responses. Over 90% of students indicated that a common residency application deadline, 72-hour residency interview confirmation window, and programs that only offered interview slots when available reduced anxiety and decreased distractions. Students who applied to more programs did receive more interviews (p< 0.001), but those students who applied to more than 50 programs did not have more interview offers than students who applied to 31-50 programs (p=0.53). Regression data indicated that more resident interviews correlated with higher USMLE score, Couples Match status, increased number of applications, and US MD status.
Discussions: Medical students felt strongly that new residency application standards are beneficial in reducing anxiety and reducing distractions. Factors that positively influenced the number of medical student interviews include higher USMLE scores, Couple Match status, increased number of applications, and US MD status.
Topics:
CREOG & APGO Annual Meeting, 2021, Student, Resident, Faculty, Clerkship Director, Clerkship Coordinator, Osteopathic Faculty, Residency Director, Residency Coordinator, Systems-Based Practice & Improvement, GME, UME, Advocacy,
