A Framework for the Virtual Medical Interview Process: Considerations for the Applicant and the Interviewer

Abstract

Background: Videoconferencing platforms are being used for the purposes of interviewing in academic medicine because of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. We present considerations applicable to interviewers and interviewees in the virtual space, with a focus on medical school and residency applicants. Methods: We reviewed the literature regarding the virtual interview process for medical school and residency by searching PubMed using the following keywords and terms: "interview," "academic medicine," "medical school application," "residency application," "virtual interviews," and "videoconferencing." Our search identified 701 results, from which we selected 36 articles for review. Results: The garnered information focuses on strategies for optimizing the virtual interview process from the standpoint of both the interviewer and the interviewee. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the virtual interview process and present recommendations. Conclusion: While the future of the interview process for medical school and residency is uncertain, virtual interviewing is a common and growing practice that will continue to be at least part of the medical interview process for years to come. Interviewers and interviewees should prepare to adapt to the evolving changes in the process.

Keywords: Academic medical centers; COVID-19; internship and residency; interviews; schools–medical; students–medical; videoconferencing.

Figure 1.

Interviewee checklist inspired by resources from the Association of American Medical Colleges.

Figure 2.

Suggested position of an applicant relative to the computer for a virtual interview.

Figure 3.

Suggested desk setup for a virtual interview.