Factors Influencing 4th Year Medical Students Rank Lists of Radiology Residency Programs

Abstract

Background: Applicants for radiology residency programs consider various factors when completing their ranking lists of programs. However, in making their decision, there is usually minimal objective data that can guide applicants in creating their rank list. Purpose: The goal of the study is to determine which factors in order of importance lead to the decision to rank one residency program over the other. Methods: This study was an anonymous, cross sectional study conducted through an online survey. Emails were sent out to applicants who had interviewed at the University of Texas Medical Branch Diagnostic Radiology department the day after match day. The survey consisted of a single open-ended question asking the survey taker to list four factors in order of importance that guided their program rank list. Results were compiled, tallied, and categorized to find common themes between the applicants preferences. Results: Of the 73 surveys sent out, a total of 30 applicants responded for a response rate of 41%. The most common 1st preference factors were Reputation, Location, and Work Environment, with 23.33%, 20%, and 20% of applicants considering these the most important factors in ranking a program. Conclusion: Despite reputation being the most common 1st preference factor, Work Environment was more commonly mentioned overall, being mentioned in 23.35% of all answers compared to Reputation 12.5%. These results, combined with the difficulty in changing a programs location and reputation, make it clear that programs should focus on building and highlighting a healthy work environment to attract applicants.