Conclusion
With recent changes in the USMLE Step 1 scoring system from numerical
scores to pass/fail, programs may be compelled to seek new ways to
differentiate applicants. However, programs must bear in mind the
consequence(s) of deterring applicants when implementing any new
requirement(s) for residency applications. Our study suggests that the
PSP and ORTA are perceived as barriers to applying to otolaryngology and
were associated with significant declines in applicant numbers and
increases in match rate success. Optional PSP and post-match ORTA
conversely led to significant increases in applications and decreases in
match rate success. Methods affecting application numbers should be
applied strategically and with careful consideration. Though perceived
barriers to otolaryngology applications may risk losing high quality
candidates, are we really doing any better with increasing pools of
unmatched applicants year after year?