Positive Health Online

Abstract

FREEMAN and LISCHKA, Division of Postdoctoral Training, AOA Department of Education, 142 E Ontario Street, Chicago, IL 60611-2864, USA. bfreeman@osteopathic.org reported on osteopathic graduate medical education (OGME) in 2008-09.

Background

The information provided in the present report on osteopathic graduate medical education (OGME) is based primarily on annual data provided through the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) Intern/Resident Registration Program (ie, the AOA Match) and the AOA Trainee Information, Verification, and Registration Audit reporting system.

Methodology

In 2007, the number of osteopathic medical graduates totalled 3103, surpassing 3000 for the first time. In 2008, the total reached 3462 graduates. Statistics on the Match in this article are reported for both 2007 and 2008.

Results

A total of 1267 (41%) and 1316 (38%) graduates and previous graduates participated and matched in 2007 and 2008, respectively. With post-Match scramble data, the number of graduates and previous graduates in AOA-approved internships and first-year residency positions rose to 1645 (53%) for the 2007-2008 academic year and is estimated to be 1828 (51%) for the 2008-2009 academic year.

Conclusion

The response of students through the Match and the increased attention to innovative OGME development activities - particularly the internship restructuring and OGME Development Initiative - are evidence of a positive momentum in OGME in recent years.

References

Freeman E and Lischka TA. Osteopathic graduate medical education. Journal of the American Osteopathic Association. 109(3): 135-45;196-8. Mar 2009.