5 - Factors Influencing Applicant Ranking of Pediatric Dental Residency Programs

Abstract: Factors Influencing Applicant Ranking of Pediatric Dental Residency Programs

Harding T, Berry EJ

Bon Secours St Mary’s Hospital, Richmond, VA

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify factors most influential in the selection and ranking of pediatric dental residency programs among recent and current trainees in the United States.

Methods: This cross-sectional, survey-based study targeted current pediatric dental residents and practicing pediatric dentists who completed residency training within the past 5 years. Eligible participants were recruited via email using ADEA PASS data. An anonymous electronic questionnaire was distributed using a secure online platform. Demographic information was collected, including age, gender, race, ethnicity, marital status, and number of children at the time of application. Participants rated the importance of multiple program-related factors, such as geographic location, program reputation, faculty impression, clinical experience, financial support, and interview experience, using a 5-point Likert scale ranging from not important to extremely important.

Results: Survey responses were analyzed descriptively to evaluate trends in residency program selection and ranking. Factors related to program reputation, geographic location, clinical training opportunities, faculty and resident impressions during interviews, and financial considerations were assessed for relative importance among respondents. Final Data Pending.

Conclusions: Understanding the factors that influence pediatric dental residency selection may assist programs in optimizing recruitment strategies and aligning program characteristics with applicant priorities. These findings may also help prospective applicants make more informed decisions during the residency application and MATCH process.

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