Effect of anatomical studies prior to medical school on medical school anatomy study success and residency choice

Abstract Introduction There is little research on how medical school matriculants’ experiences prior to medical school effects their choice of specialty or performance in medical school. This research attempts to fill that gap in research in regards to surgical and radiological fields. Methods An anonymous survey was sent to fourth year medical students asking them their background in anatomy studies prior to medical school and their anatomy grades in medical school and interest in surgical and radiological fields. Students were also asked whether they identified with under-represented demographic groups in those specialties. Results Prior anatomy experience did not significantly affect performance in anatomy courses or Step 1 and Step 2 scores. However, students who applied to surgical specialties had higher performance in anatomical courses and higher Step 1 scores compared to those who did not apply to surgical specialties. There was interestingly no difference in under-represented and not under-represented student application to these fields. Discussion For shareholders interested in increasing medical student performance, or interest in specific specialties, more information needs to be gathered.