National radiology fellowship match program: success or failure?

In early 2003, with strong support from radiology leaders, the first national fellowship match was conducted in radiology. Most programs (358 programs in 9 categories) in the country participated, and 411 positions were filled out of 769 available in the match. Residents who selected to stay at their home departments were chosen before the match. A survey was conducted after the match to assess the satisfaction of chairpersons, program directors, and residents. Overall, the match was rated a success. However, a number of the pediatric fellowship programs remained outside of the match, possibly threatening its future. The initial radiology fellowship match that involved all fellowship specialties was deemed by residents and program leaders to be an overall success. Future matches will attempt to deal with such issues as incomplete participation. A significant problem is the continuing excess of offered fellowship positions over the number of applicants.