Open AccessPredictors of otolaryngology applicant success using the Texas STAR database
Author(s) -
Lenze Nicholas R.,
Mihalic Angela P.,
DeMason Christine E.,
Shah Rupali N.,
Buckmire Robert A.,
Thorp Brian D.,
Ebert Charles S.,
Zanation Adam M.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
laryngoscope investigative otolaryngology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2378-8038
DOI - 10.1002/lio2.549
Subject(s) - otorhinolaryngology , logistic regression , medicine , medical school , demography , family medicine , surgery , medical education , sociology
Objectives To examine applicant characteristics and behaviors associated with a successful match into otolaryngology residency. Methods Self‐reported survey data from applicants to otolaryngology residency between 2018 and 2020 were obtained from the Texas STAR database. Characteristics and predictors associated with a successful match were examined using Chi‐square tests, two‐sided t‐tests, and logistic regression models. Results A total of 315 otolaryngology residency applicants responded to the survey of whom 274 matched (87%) and 41 did not match (13%). Matched applicants had a significantly higher mean USMLE Step 1 score ( P = .016) and Step 2 CK score ( P = .007). There were no significant differences in AOA status (45% vs 36%; P = .207), mean number of applications submitted (70 vs 69; P = .544), and mean number of away rotations (2.1 vs 2.0; P = .687) between matched and unmatched applicants. Significant predictors of a successful match included receiving honors in 5 or more clerkships (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.0‐4.0; P = .040), receiving honors in an ENT clerkship (OR 3.7, 95% CI 1.0‐12.9; P = .044), and having 3 or more peer‐reviewed publications (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.1‐4.5; P = .020). The majority of applicants (79.9%) matched at a program where they either did an away rotation, had a personal geographic connection, or attended medical school in the same geographic region. Conclusions Board scores, excelling on clinical rotations, and having productive research experience appear to be strong predictors of a successful match in otolaryngology. The majority of applicants report a personal or geographic connection to the program at which they match. Level of evidence 4.