Stanford Surgery Commits to Photo-less Applications
September 16, 2019
Stanford University's Department of Surgery has committed to reviewing all fellowship and residency applications sans the customary photo.
"All of our fellowship and ACGME residency programs have agreed to forgo printing the candidate photo as part of their racket for evaluation for invitation for interview," said Dr. Sherry Wren, Stanford Surgery's Vice Chair of Diversity. "Research shows that photos can influence selection in positive and negative ways."
Research on bias and discrimination due to photos in the resident selection process have been published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open and Academic Medicine.
"This is a way to make sure we approach all candidates in the fairest and equitable manner, " said Wren. "It’s a great example of our department leading the way for diversity and inclusion."
The NRMP began accepting applications on Saturday, September 14.
Learn more about our residency programs in:
• General Surgery
• Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
• Vascular Surgery