A 5-Year Update on the IR Residency Match: 2022 National Survey Results of Program Directors and Matched Applicants Compared with 2017

Abstract

PurposeTo characterize the experiences of matched applicants (MAs) and program directors (PDs) in the 2022 interventional radiology (IR) residency Match and compare with 2017 data. MethodsSurveys were distributed to IR PDs and MAs from the 2022 Match. Findings were compared with those of 2017 using the 2-sample t test and Fisher exact test. ResultsIn total, 68 MAs (40%) and 47 PDs (52%) responded. Collected demographic traits were similar, including ongoing male predominance (77% of MAs, 83% of PDs). Moreover, 86% of MAs and 87% of PDs were “satisfied” with Match outcomes. Compared with those in 2017, MAs applied to more IR programs (P < .001). MAs reported more research (P = .003) and abstracts/publications (P < .001) and ranked these as more important than PDs did (P < .001 for both). Approximately 82% of PDs gave special attention to candidates who completed a visiting rotation at their institution; 60% of MAs and 95% of PDs believed virtual interviews resulted in overinterviewing (P < .001); both agreed they provided convenience and accessibility. Furthermore, 63% of MAs believed a Step 1 pass/fail system will be less equitable for applicants. Additional data on demographics, medical school experiences, applications, interviews, intern year, and rank process were reported. ConclusionsSatisfaction with Match results remained high from 2017 to 2022, although efforts are needed to improve applicants’ ability to navigate the application process, address overapplying, and evaluate concerns regarding the Step 1 pass/fail system. These survey findings will help inform applicants and PDs for future match cycles.