Pre and Post COVID-19: Qualifications of Medical Students who Matched into Dermatology

Abstract

With a growing number of applicants for dermatologic residencies, M.D. students interested in the specialty are expanding their curriculum vitae, specifically through their research involvement, to be considered competitive for the limited number of spots. However, very little is known about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on student participation in research and publication production. In this study, we analyzed data on M.D. students applying into dermatology using the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) published data for the years of 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2022. We analyzed differences between applicants before and during the COVID-19 pandemic of those who matched and those who did not, in terms of number of research experiences and publications completed. Despite the pandemic, all applicants—regardless of their success in matching—increased the amount of research experiences they completed and the number of publications they obtained prior to their application. Higher research competitiveness, as identified through this study, increases the already present disparities that exist within matching into dermatology and suggests that students will have to forego career exploration and creating a solid foundation of pre-clinical knowledge in the name of increased research. As such, the application process for dermatologic residencies will become less holistic and more biased.