A 20-Year Analysis Assessing the Competitiveness of Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Programs and Medical School Applicants [ID: 1365966

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The competitiveness of obstetrics and gynecology residency programs in the last two decades is not well described in the literature. As such, we aimed to assess the change in competitiveness of obstetrics and gynecology programs over a 20-year period using a normalized competitive index (NCI). METHODS: Obstetrics and gynecology match data was obtained from the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) (2003–2022). Applicant metrics (USMLE scores, research output and experiences, and work and volunteer experiences) were obtained from the NRMP and the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) (2007–2021). The competitive index (CI) was assessed using the average number of programs ranked per applicant divided by match rate each year. The NCI was normalized by dividing the yearly CI by averaged CI over 20 years. Data were analyzed using univariate analysis and linear regression. RESULTS: When comparing the two decades (2003–2012 versus 2013–2022), applicants (1,539±77 versus 1,902±46, P<.001), positions (1,173±10 versus 1,345±31, P<.001), and number of programs ranked per applicant (13±0.04 versus 15±0.02, P<.001) have increased. While the match rate did not significantly change from 2003 to 2022 (76±3 versus 71±1, P=.14), the NCI increased (R2=0.92, P<.001), indicating increased competitiveness. Applicant metrics increased over time, including step 1 scores (212±3 versus 229±1, P=.01), step 2 scores (232± 4 versus 245±1, P=.002), and research output (2.5±0.4 versus 5.0±0.3, P=.002). 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 NCI. The NCI may be a useful metric for applicants to determine competitiveness in comparison to match rates.