Finding the Next Resident Physicians in the COVID-19 Global Pandemic: An Applicant Survey on the 2020 Virtual Urology Residency Match.

Abstract

TITLE\nFinding the Next Resident Physicians in the COVID-19 Global Pandemic: An Applicant Survey on the 2020 Virtual Urology Residency Match OBJECTIVE: To assess interviewing applicant perceptions of a virtual urology residency interview in the setting of changes mandated by COVID-19 and to determine applicant preference for virtual or in-person interviews. Applicant perceptions of multiple interview components were queried to identify program specific and interview modality specific strengths or weaknesses in the 2020-2021 Urology Match.\n\n\nMETHODS\nA 12-question multiple choice and free text survey was emailed to 66 virtually interviewed applicants for open residency positions at a metropolitan training program after conclusion of interviews. Items of interest included interview type preference, overall interview impression, and recommendations for improvement.\n\n\nRESULTS\nA total of 50/66 (76%) applicants completed the survey corresponding to approximately 11% of the 2020 national urology applicant pool. A total of 49/50 (96%) respondents assessed faculty interaction and the virtual platform positively. A total of 38/50 (76%) was satisfied with their resident interaction and 32/50 (64%) applicants stated they were able to satisfactorily evaluate the site and program. Ultimately, 39/50 (78%) respondents would have preferred an in-person interview to our virtual interview. Respondents cited challenges in assessing program culture and program physical site virtually.\n\n\nCONCLUSIONS\nThe majority of survey respondents indicated a preference for in-person interviews. A smaller proportion of applicants preferred virtual interviews citing their convenience and lower cost. Efforts to improve the virtual interview experience may focus on improving applicant-resident interaction and remote site assessment.