Surveying the current landscape of clinical genetics residency training

Purpose: Further knowledge about medical genetics residency training structure and function could help advance this educational process. Methods: Medical genetics residency program directors were surveyed about their trainees' backgrounds and skills as well as the recruitment and matching process. Results: Previous resident training was predominantly in pediatrics (49%). Average ratings of residents' beginning clinical knowledge (scale of 1-10, minimal to superior) were: dysmorphology -3.5, inborn errors of metabolism -2.5, prenatal genetics -2.6, and cancer genetics -2.8. On average, four months of research were required for categorical residency and fifteen months for combined residency. For the 2011 transition to ERAS/NRMP, 69% of program directors were extremely or somewhat prepared; however, 21% felt unprepared. The number of trainees at most institutions remained unchanged. 36% of respondents reported that ERAS/NRMP has had no impact on recruitment of trainees, and 26% felt it has had a slightly positive impact. Continued utilization was recommended by 71% while 5% disagreed. Conclusion: Genetics residents come from diverse training backgrounds. Their education can be directed toward specific areas of perceived initial weakness. ERAS/NRMP has not drastically increased entrance into the field. Further discussions are merited regarding enhancement of medical genetics residency recruitment and training.