Research Fever—An Ever More Prominent Trend in the Residency Match

Abstract

This Viewpoint discusses the rising trend in research output among matched US MD seniors in the National Resident Matching Program Main Residency Match from 2009 to 2020.

Research Fever in Dermatology—A Symptom of a Larger Problem

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recently published "Research Fever-An Ever More Prominent Trend in the Residency Match," highlighting increased research output on residency applications from 2009 to 2020. 1 The article has raised questions in dermatology about best next steps. It is important to emphasize that research "fever" is not the fault of applicants but is rather a symptom of larger problems in our health care and educational systems.Research fever developed over years and is related to the competitive environment of residency applications despite a predicted physician shortage.

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“…Drs Ahmed and Adashi recently published “Research Fever—An Ever More Prominent Trend in the Residency Match,” highlighting increased research output on residency applications from 2009 to 2020 . The article has raised questions in dermatology about best next steps.…”

“…The downstream effects of these positive changes are fewer numeric metrics to evaluate applicants. As noted by Ahmed and Adashi, this leaves research output as a “tangible means of demonstrating one’s interest or academic inclination.” The overemphasis on research “numbers,” such as publications and presentations, is also riddled with inequities.…”

Residency Research Fever Across the World

“…To the Editor We read with great interest the article by Ahmed and Adashi on the drastic increase in research output by residency applicants in the United States and the possible contributing factors.…”

Residency Research Fever Across the World—Reply

“…In Reply We thank Ranganathan and Vervoort for the global perspective they bring to our Viewpoint detailing the notable recent rise in research output among US MD senior applicants to residency programs in the United States …”