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Cross-sectional Study Assessing The Ranking Process Of Plastic Surgery Applicants
Erin Anstadt, MD
Francesco Egro, MD
Alexander Spiess, MD
Lorelei Grunwaldt, MD
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
2018-02-15
Presenter: Erin Anstadt
Affidavit:
Certified.
Director Name: Vu T. Nguyen
Author Category: Resident Plastic Surgery
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: General Reconstruction
BACKROUND
The process behind the construction of a program's rank order list (ROL) remains unclear. This study aims to elucidate how programs systematically rank applicants for the plastic surgery match through analysis of a national survey.
METHODS
A 21-question survey was sent to program directors (PDs) of all plastic surgery residency programs in the US. PDs were queried about quantity and content of criteria included in rank lists, the role of specific participants in the decision-making process, and possibilities for standardization.
RESULTS
A total of 32 responses (33% response rate) were received. 19% are not satisfied with the current ROL preparation process and 75% would like to know how other programs generate their ROLs. 47% felt having nationally standardized objective measures would be more efficient. 82% use a quantitative score to grade applicants relative to other applicants, which includes 5 or more criteria (79%) using a Likert scale in the majority of cases (46%), assessing academic potential, professionalism, patient care, interpersonal skills and others. However, the majority (82%) do not rank applicants according to these scores alone. A post-interview rank-list review is performed in 87% of cases and lists are frequently changed. Residents contribute to applicant assessments in 79% of programs, with their input deemed essential by 64% of programs.
CONCLUSIONS
No standardized approach to constructing a ROL exists. PDs are interested in understanding how other leaders approach this process. Most programs use a quantitative scale that includes subjective criteria and resident input, and conduct an post-interview rank list review.
