Emergency Medicine Program Leadership Preferences For In Person Versus Virtual Residency Interviews
Abstract
Learning Objectives: Assess EM residency program leadership preferences/concerns for the 2021-22 residency interview cycle.
Background: The Coalition for Physician Accountability recommended 2021-2022 residency interviews be held virtually. Studies assessing EM program leadership preferences for virtual versus in person interviews have been limited.
Objective: Assess EM residency program leadership preferences/concerns for the 2021-2022 residency interview cycle.
Methods: Via CORD’s Program Director and Faculty Community, EM program leadership were asked to complete a 10 question survey, which included likert, multiple choice, and open response questions. There were 73 responses (86.3% PDs, 12.3% APDs, 2.7% CDs, Vice Chair of Education 1.4%). Descriptive and summary statistics were used.
Results: When asked comfort level with formats for 2021-2022, respondents felt most comfortable (agree or strongly agree) with virtual interviews only (64.4%), followed by virtual interviews with all applicants with optional in person second looks (57.5%), in person interviews only (50.7%), and offering both in person and virtual formats with applicants choosing the format they prefer (29.1%). When asked which one format they prefer, 37% preferred virtual interviews with all applicants with optional in person second looks, followed by 26% virtual interviews only, 20.5% offering both in person and virtual formats with applicants choosing which format they prefer, and 16.4% preferred in person interviews only (Figure 1). There was concern for bias if students are given a choice between in person and virtual interviews (Figure 2). In the open response, a novel idea suggested second looks for students after programs have submitted their rank list, yet before students submit their lists.
Conclusions: A majority of EM program leaders feel comfortable with virtual interviews only for the 2021-2022 cycle. The largest percentage prefer virtual interviews with all applicants, with optional in person second looks. As a follow up, we plan to survey current interns who interviewed in 2020-2021.