Competitiveness of Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Programs and Applicants

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To assess the change in competitiveness of obstetrics and gynecology programs over 20 years using a normalized competitive index. METHODS: Obstetrics and gynecology match data were obtained from the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) for 2003–2022. Applicant metrics (United States Medical Licensing Examination scores, score percentiles, research output and experiences, and work and volunteer experiences) were obtained from the NRMP and the Association of American Medical Colleges (2007–2021). The competitive index was calculated using the number of positions available divided by match rate each year between 2003 and 2022. The normalized competitive index was calculated by dividing the yearly competitive index by the average competitive index over 20 years. Data were analyzed using univariate analysis and linear regressions. RESULTS: When comparing the two decades (2003–2012 vs 2013–2022), applicants (1,539±242 vs 1,902±144; P<.001), positions (1,173±31 vs 1,345±98; P<.001), and number of programs ranked per applicant (13±1.4 vs 15±0.6; P<.001) have increased. While the match rate did not significantly change from 2003 to 2022 (75.5%±9.9% vs 70.5%±1.6%; P=.14), the normalized competitive index increased (R2=0.92, P<.001), indicating increased competitiveness. Applicant metrics increased over time, including research output (2.4±0.8 vs 5.0±0.7; P=.002) and work experiences (2.9±0.2 vs 3.6±0.1; P=.002; R2=0.98, P<.001). CONCLUSION: Despite an increase in obstetrics and gynecology applicants and applicant metrics, match rates remain unchanged. However, the competitiveness of programs has significantly increased, as demonstrated by the normalized competitive index, applicants per position, and applicant metrics. The normalized competitive index is a useful metric for applicants to determine program or applicant competitiveness, especially when used alongside applicant metrics.

Transition From Normative to Criterion-Based Grading in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Clerkship

“…A study assessing this issue would be very informative given that the competitiveness of OB/GYN residency programs has increased significantly from 2003–2012 to 2013–2022. 10 …”

Competitiveness of Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Programs and Applicants

“…We read with interest the study by Michelotti et al 1 in the August 2023 issue documenting increasing competitiveness of the obstetrics and gynecology residency match. Among other metrics of competitiveness, they note that applicants' mean research output has more than doubled, from 2.4 to 5 abstracts, presentations, and publications between the two time periods spanning 2007 to 2021.…”

In Reply

“…We thank Drs. Tumin and Whiteside for their letter in response to our article in the August 2023 issue, 1 providing further insight into the importance of high-quality research experiences among obstetrics and gynecology residency applicants. They highlight important points regarding the limitations of the research output obtained from the National Resident Matching Program data.…”