Recent changes in the residency matching process, such as the shift to a pass/fail USMLE Step 1 scoring system, have raised concerns among surgical specialties. Research productivity, virtual interviews, and preference signaling play crucial roles in residency match outcomes. Despite these changes improving accessibility, the full impact on applicant-program fit remains unclear. Recommendations include a greater focus on Step 2 scores and research productivity to enhance the selection and matching processes for surgical specialties.
Review by Patel H, Wright DD (…) Elkbuli A et 4 al. in Am Surg