Identifying factors that influence the selection of a postgraduate year 2 ambulatory care residency program

Abstract

Introduction

Studies have been conducted to evaluate motivating factors for pharmacy students in pursuing a postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) residency program. Currently, no literature assesses the factors driving the selection of a specific PGY2 ambulatory care (AC) pharmacy program.

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to identify factors driving the selection of a specific PGY2 AC pharmacy residency program. Secondary objectives were to describe whether these driving factors have changed throughout the residency year, the impact of remote work in the selection of a PGY2 AC program, and the impact of resident well-being in the selection of a PGY2 AC program.

Methods

A questionnaire was electronically distributed to 199 American Society of Health-System Pharmacists residency program directors (RPDs) of PGY2 AC programs in March 2023. The RPDs were asked to forward the questionnaire and reminder emails to their current PGY2 AC residents. The questionnaire included a combination of categorical, Likert-type, open-ended, and demographic questions. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the results.

Results

In total, 72 PGY2 AC residents responded, providing a response rate of 27%. The mean age was 26 (±1.30) years, 69% identified as female, and 57% practiced in an urban setting. The top three factors that influenced the selection prior to the ASHP Match were culture of the program, perceived positive resident morale, and mentorship provided by RPD and preceptors. These factors remained the most influential after being in residency for approximately 8–9 months. The ability to work from home or remotely, complete a teaching certificate program, and conduct telehealth visits were the least influential factors.

Conclusion

An understanding of the factors that were most influential in the selection of a PGY2 AC program provides a unique resource to RPDs, allowing them to better position their program for future candidates.