What Predicts Outstanding Orthopedic Residents among the Program?

Abstract

Background: An oversupply of qualified applicants leads to intense competition for the limited number of<br />first year orthopedic residency positions. Therefore, program directors can be more selective in choosing<br />their future residents. However, it is unclear if there are resident characteristics that correspond with trainee<br />performance.<br />Methods: We asked (1) what resident characteristics are associated with subjective residency performance<br />score? and (2) what resident characteristics are associated with Orthopedic In-Training Examination (OITE)<br />score?<br />A total of 119 orthopedic residents accepted at the Harvard Combined Orthopedic Residency Program from<br />1999 – 2009 were included in this study. The current program director together with two former program<br />directors in the selected time period defined the subjective residency performance score based on the<br />clinical skills of the residents during training.<br />Results: Former Olympic or varsity athlete (P=0.018) and Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) status (P=0.014)<br />were associated with a better subjective residency performance score. Higher USMLE step 1 score<br />(P=0.0038), known person within faculty prior to the residency (did a research rotation, or local medical<br />student) (P=0.041), and AOA (P=0.015) status were associated with a higher OITE score.<br />Conclusion: AOA status of the applicant for orthopedic residency is associated with both a higher OITE<br />score and a better subjective residency performance score.<br />Level of evidence: IV