Abstract
INTRODUCTION:Program websites are the most common online resource applicants use to access information about residency programs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, online resources have had to take place of site visits when interviews transitioned to the virtual setting. At this time, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education does not have a plan for a transition back to in-person interviews. The objective of this study is to assess applicant use, and information that is sought for development of high-quality residency websites.METHODS:A survey was shared to interviewees on their interview day with Creighton University-Phoenix obstetrics and gynecology residency during the 2022-2023 application cycle. To remove the possibility of influence or coercion, the survey was kept anonymous. This was found to be IRB exempt.RESULTS:Of the 88 survey respondents, 100% marked they visited the program website. Only 32 of the 88 respondents indicated they did not find the information they were looking. The most-sought information by respondents was current resident profiles (75% of respondents), hospital/training site information (68%), rotation schedule (63%), and faculty profiles (60%). Other notable categories respondents were hoping to find information about included the following: surgical training, family planning training, and benefits offered by the program.CONCLUSION:Program websites are highly utilized by residency applicants. Information traditionally shared on interview day is now found through online resources; most-sought information included resident and faculty profiles, rotation schedules, and training site information.