This is an interesting poll, but I dont understand the inclusion of your last option: ability to match/safety. This does not seem to belong since your ability to match at a location should not have anything to do with it being your optimum residency or top choice. The only plausible reason I can think to explain why it would be a factor is if someone wanted to match at a place where they were greatly wanted. This seems like an odd reason for a program to be your top choice. Maybe someone can shed some light.

Regardless, I personally used location as a screening tool for deciding where to apply and interview, but if I had to select a number one factor for deciding my optimum program it is not found on your list; the Training (quality, experience, focus, etc.). A factor which was probably a close second also was not on your list; the People (residents and staff) that I would be working with. I hope write-in votes are acceptable.

Good points you made. I guess I should rewrite the question to read: Provided all training is equal, what is....

As far as the Ability to Match/Safety option, I meant it just how you interpreted it... that one would select a place higher on their overall list just based upon the perceived ability to match at that location.

Sorry it is not the best poll, but I was just sitting in the On Call room and thought I would try to generate some discussion on this Forum. It appears that a lot of people visit this website everyday but few people post.

Thanks again,
WISCite

I agree with the idea that quality of training and staff/residents in the program should be options to be considered and took the liberty of adding them to the list. Not sure if you have that option of not.

When I decided on orthopaedic residency it was primarily 1) quality of training, 2) location, and 3) research that were important factors in my decision.

Regards

Christian

Thanks... I didn't know I could add options after posting....

WISCite