Impact of Medical Student Research Fellowships on Otolaryngology Match Outcomes

Abstract

Objectives/hypothesis: While many students participate in research years or fellowships prior to entering the otolaryngology-head and neck surgery (OHNS) match, the effects of these fellowships on match outcomes remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the impact of research fellowships on odds of matching into OHNS.

Study design: Cross-sectional analysis.

Methods: Applications from first-time, US allopathic seniors between the 2014-2015 and the 2019-2020 application cycles were reviewed. Data were abstracted from Electronic Residency Application Service applications and match results determined using the National Residency Matching Program database and online public sources. The relationship between research fellowships and matching was analyzed using multivariate logistic regression.

Results: Of the 1775 applicants included, nearly 16% (n = 275) participated in research fellowships and 84.1% matched (n = 1492). Research fellows were no more likely to match into OHNS than non-research fellows (86.9% vs. 83.5%, unadjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.31, P = .161), even when adjusting for applicant characteristics (predicted probability [PP]: 88.8% vs. 85.8%, adjusted OR 1.31, P = .210). For applicants from top 25 medical schools, however, research fellowships were associated with higher odds of matching (PP: 96.5% vs. 90.0%, adjusted OR 3.07, P = .017). In addition, completing a fellowship was associated with significantly greater odds of matching into a top 25 OHNS residency program (PP: 58.6% vs. 30.5%, adjusted OR 3.24, P < .001).

Conclusion: Fellowships may be beneficial for select applicants, though for most, they are not associated with improved odds of matching. These findings provide context for OHNS residency candidates considering research fellowships and should be carefully weighed against other potential advantages and disadvantages of fellowships.

Level of evidence: NA Laryngoscope, 131:E2506-E2512, 2021.

Keywords: Otolaryngology; match; medical student research; research fellowship; research years; residency.