Ophthalmology Residency Match outcomes for 2011.

PURPOSE: To determine the match rate and predictors of matching into an ophthalmology residency.

DESIGN

Population-based, cross-sectional study.

PARTICIPANTS

All 746 candidates who submitted an application for the 2011 ophthalmology residency match.

METHODS

The Ophthalmology Residency Matching Program applicant database was reviewed to determine applicant characteristics and match outcomes. For US seniors, multivariate regression analysis was performed to determine predictors of matching.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Match rate and predictors of US seniors matching.

RESULTS

Rank lists were submitted by 622 applicants, among whom 458 (74%) matched. The match rate was higher for US seniors (83%) than for independent applicants (41%; P < 0.001). US seniors who matched were more likely to be Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society members (odds ratio [OR], 2.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.16-7.29), to attend medical schools ranked in the top 40 according to National Institutes of Health funding (OR, 2.25; CI, 1.14-4.43), and to have ranked more programs (OR, 1.44; CI, 1.29-1.60). Those ranking 6 to 10 programs had an 80% to 90% chance of matching, and those ranking more than 10 programs had a greater than 90% chance of matching. No clear benefit was observed by ranking additional programs once 11 had already been ranked. Average US Medical Licensing Examination Step 1 scores were 239 ± 14 and 223 ± 18 for applicants who were matched and unmatched, respectively; this difference was significant by univariate analysis (P < 0.001) but not by multivariate regression (P = 0.163).

CONCLUSIONS

Ophthalmology ranks among the most competitive specialties in medicine. Those most likely to match were US seniors who maintained academic excellence beginning in their preclinical years. A finite relationship exists between ranking a greater number of programs and having a greater chance of matching.