The Fellowship of the Little Hearts: A 16-Year Analysis of Pediatric Cardiology Match Outcomes

Abstract

Pediatric Cardiology is a critical subspecialty addressing congenital and acquired heart disease in children. Despite its importance, limited data exist on recent fellowship match trends in this field. We aim to examine 16 years of National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) data to identify trends in match outcomes of Pediatric Cardiology fellowship training from 2009 to 2024. This retrospective cohort study utilized NRMP's Specialty Matching Service data from 2009 to 2024. Match outcomes, applicant types, positions, and preferences were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Pearson correlation. From 2009 to 2024, fellowship positions increased 65.5% from 108 in 2009 to 179 in 2024 (χ² = 40.3, p < 0.001) while applicants grew 13.5% from 163 in 2009 to 185 in 2024 it did not reach statistical significance (χ² = 10.6, p = 0.780). Match rates remained high 96.1% with strong position-match rate correlation (r = 0.989, p < 0.001). U.S. MD graduates led in match success with 69.6% but declined progressively. DO graduates increased from 1.9% to 10% (χ² = 36.4, p = 0.002) and U.S. IMGs from 1.9% to 8.2% (χ² = 73.2, p < 0.001). Applicant-program alignment improved: 86.1% matched top three choices (53% first choice), with first choice rates increasing from 36.2% in 2009 to 47.6% in 2024 (χ² = 32.4, p = 0.006). Unmatched applicants decreased from 36.2% in 2009 to 6.5% in 2024 (χ² = 46.9, p < 0.001); unfilled positions remained low (3.1%). The Pediatric Cardiology match demonstrates an increasing diversity in applicant educational backgrounds. Continued efforts to expand inclusivity and mentorship may enhance future workforce equity and retention. These findings can inform applicants, program directors, and policymakers aiming to sustain growth and diversity in pediatric cardiology training.

Keywords: Fellowship Match; NRMP; Graduate Medical Education; Pediatric Cardiology; Workforce Trends.