Radiology resident selection factors predict resident performance

Purpose: To determine selection factors that predict radiology resident performance. Methods: 59 consecutive radiology residents from 2002 to 2015 were ranked on performance during residency. Correlations and multiple regression analyses were performed to predict resident performance from the following selection factors: United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) Step 1 score, medical school rank, Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) membership, honors in clinical rotations, Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE), and interview score. Results were compared against predictions from Match rank position. Results: Five selection factors showed significant or marginally significant correlations with resident performance (r = 0.2 to 0.3). The interview score was not significantly correlated. A multiple regression model comprised of the USMLE Step 1 score, medical school rank, AOA membership, and interview score predicted resident performance, with an adjusted R-2 of 0.19. The interview score was included in the model but did not achieve statistical significance. Match rank did not predict resident performance, with an R-2 of 0.01. Conclusions: A multiple regression model comprised of the USMLE Step 1 score, medical school rank, and AOA membership predicted radiology resident performance and may assist with resident selection.