Clerkship Experiences During Medical School: Influence on Specialty Decision.

OBJECTIVE: Clinical rotations during medical school are the time when most students select their specialty. Limited or lack of exposure could deter students from certain sub-specialties, and thus, insight into the selection process is essential. This study assesses the role of limited clinical rotations and perception of students on specialty selection.
METHODS: All graduating medical students were surveyed at our US-based institution for 2 years. The survey included both open- and close-ended questions related to influence of clerkship experience and other factors on specialty choice and suggestions for improvement. The data were analyzed descriptively and thematically.
RESULTS: Majority of students (87%) had minimal exposure to their chosen residency specialty prior to the third-year clerkships. Role of a clerkship experience in selecting a specialty was significant for 70% students, especially interaction with attendings (92%) and residents (86.3%). The most influential reasons for specialty choice to change were clerkship experience (41%) and mentors (21%). Approximately 34% students chose a specialty that was not a part of third-year core clerkships, and the most significant factors influencing their choice were shadowing experience (21%) and lifestyle (18%). Further, thematic analysis suggested that earlier and more clinical exposure to various specialties and formal mentoring could make specialty selection process easier.
CONCLUSIONS: Along with specialty content, the relationship of learners and teachers in the clinical setting plays a significant role in selecting and/or rejecting certain specialty by medical students. The study provides broader baseline data for medical schools and educators in preparation of curriculum and future physician workforce composition. © International Association of Medical Science Educators 2021.