The Experience of the Virtual Interview Process for Hand Fellowship Program Directors

Purpose

Due to the Coronavirus Disease-19 pandemic, the fellowship application process has transitioned from in-person interviews to virtual interviews. Although several studies have assessed the impact of Coronavirus Disease-19 on residency and fellowship interviews, fewer studies have investigated the program director’s perspective. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the experience of virtual interviews on hand fellowship program directors and understand some of the important factors that may make an applicant more competitive.

Methods

A 21-question survey was conducted through Google Forms and distributed through a standardized email to hand fellowship program directors and coordinators. Questions used a 5-point Likert scale with the opportunity for respondents to answer some questions in a free-response format. Statistical analysis was conducted with significance assigned to P values < .05.

Results

Ninety-three surveys were distributed, of which 35 responses were obtained, corresponding to a 37.6% survey response rate. Program directors reported that they tended to place more emphasis on applicant’s curriculum vitae, calls from colleagues, and applicants that they had previously met. In addition, program directors felt that applicants were able to accurately represent themselves through the virtual format. Finally, most program directors stated that they were highly likely to continue to offer virtual interviews.

Conclusions

With several parenting organizations and program directors affirming that they are comfortable with proceeding with virtual interviews, it is essential for hand fellowship applicants to understand what factors program directors may perceive as more important. It is possible that the virtual interview process may effectively achieve suitable matches between applicants and institutions.

Type of study/level of evidence

Decision analysis IIIb.