Changes in otolaryngology application requirements and match outcomes: Are we doing any better?

Emma De Ravin, Ariel S. Frost, Neal R. Godse, Amber D. Shaffer, Noel Jabbour, Barry M. Schaitkin, Jason Newman, Leila J. Mady

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Objectives: Otolaryngology-specific requirements were piloted to minimize applicant and program burdens. We investigated the impact of introducing and then removing these requirements on Match outcomes. Methods: 2014–2021 National Resident Matching Program® data were examined. The primary outcome was the impact of Otolaryngology Resident Talent Assessment (ORTA; prematch 2017, postmatch 2019) and Program-Specific Paragraph (PSP; implemented 2016, optional 2018) on applicant numbers and match rates. Secondary survey analysis assessed candidate perceptions of PSP/ORTA. Results: Applicant numbers declined significantly during PSP/ORTA (18.9%; p = 0.001). With the optional PSP and postmatch ORTA, applicant numbers increased significantly (39.0%; p = 0.002). Examined individually, mandatory PSP was associated with a significant decline in applicants (p = 0.007), whereas postmatch ORTA was associated with significant increases in applicants (p = 0.010). ORTA and PSP negatively impacted the decision to apply to otolaryngology in 59.8% and 51.3% of applicants, respectively. Conversely, match rate success improved significantly from 74.8% to 91.2% during PSP/ORTA (p = 0.014), followed by a significant decline to 73.1% after PSP was made optional and ORTA moved to postmatch (p = 0.002). Conclusions: ORTA and PSP correlated with decreased applicant numbers and increased match rate success. As programs seek ways to remove barriers to applying to otolaryngology, the potential consequences of an increasing pool of unmatched candidates must also be considered.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)144-152
Number of pages9
JournalWorld Journal of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Volume9
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2023
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2022 The Authors. World Journal of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd on behalf of Chinese Medical Association.

Keywords

  • academic success
  • internship and residency
  • medical students
  • otolaryngology
  • surveys and questionnaires

PubMed: MeSH publication types

  • Journal Article

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