COVID-19 and the Ophthalmology Residency Match: Data from Applicants' Perspectives

Abstract

Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a profound impact on medical education, particularly for those applying to residency programs in 2020 to 2021. This study describes the challenges for potential ophthalmology residency applicants so that residency leadership can make informed decisions about changes to the process. Methods A survey was distributed electronically via social media and medical school ophthalmology interest groups from June 18, 2020 to July 2, 2020 to individuals interested in applying to ophthalmology residency in the United States. Survey questions included demographics and perceived impacts of COVID-19 on ability, confidence, intention to apply, and perceptions toward changes in the application process for the 2020 to 2021 ophthalmology residency application cycle. Results One-hundred sixteen total responses were received. Eighty-six responses (74%) were from individuals intending to apply in the 2020 to 2021 application cycle. Most respondents (86%) felt that their application would be affected by COVID-19 with 51% feeling less confident. Only four (5%) felt that they could adequately compile a rank list following a video interview, and over half (51%) anticipated applying to more programs than they originally intended. Academic plans of seven (8%) respondents were significantly altered via deferral of application or cancellation of a research year. Thirty-nine (45%) students reported delayed ophthalmology electives, with less than half (41%) feeling that they had adequate clinical exposure to be prepared for residency. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial impact on the 2020 to 2021 ophthalmology residency application cycle. As stakeholders begin to approach this cycle, these findings will help them make effective and informed decisions to create the best overall experience for all involved.

The Impact of Virtual Interviews on the Geographic Distribution of Ophthalmology Match Results in the 2020–2021 Cycle

“…However, in-person interviews and away rotations enable applicants to form important social connections with both faculty and potential future coresidents, as well as allow them to assess overall culture, fit, and camaraderie of the program. 2 8 9 Many applicants during the cycle favored in-person interviews with virtual interviews as a possible option. Medical students that desired a residency position in more distant geographic locations from their home medical school were more likely to support in-person interviews.…”

Virtual versus In-Person Ophthalmology Interviews: Perceptions of U.S. Ophthalmology Fellowship Applicants in 2022–2023

“… 1 Other studies surveying applicants, interviewers, and committee members within various specialties demonstrated more equivocal results. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 While participants on both sides of the interview process envision a future role for virtual interviews, 7 8 11 12 14 few believe they will completely replace in-person interviews. 4 9 12 13 Commonly cited shortcomings include difficulty assessing program fit, 1 2 3 5 6 13 14 difficulty implementing and conducting the virtual interview, 5 14 and ambiguity in how a virtual format would ultimately impact perceptions of the applicant.…”

“… 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 While participants on both sides of the interview process envision a future role for virtual interviews, 7 8 11 12 14 few believe they will completely replace in-person interviews. 4 9 12 13 Commonly cited shortcomings include difficulty assessing program fit, 1 2 3 5 6 13 14 difficulty implementing and conducting the virtual interview, 5 14 and ambiguity in how a virtual format would ultimately impact perceptions of the applicant. 6 9 Conversely, applicants reported many benefits, including reduced costs, 1 2 3 7 11 13 14 more favorable travel burden, 3 14 decreased time commitment, 11 13 14 improved stress, 7 lower carbon footprint, 7 14 and greater schedule flexibility.…”