The Dynamic History of the Ophthalmology Residency Matching Program

Background The ophthalmology residency matching program is the first successful medical specialty match, dating back to 1979. This article reviews the impetus for starting the match and the roles that ophthalmologists Bruce Spivey, MD, and August Colenbrander, MD, PhD, played in establishing the match and developing the machinery to make it possible. Challenges to the match's operations over the years have improved the process. Objective This article aims to research the roles of key individuals and institutions in establishing and maintaining the ophthalmology residency matching program. Methods Oral and written interviews with key participants in establishing and maintaining the match were conducted. Primary and secondary written materials were reviewed. Results Two physicians played key roles in establishing the ophthalmology residency matching program. Bruce Spivey, MD, spearheaded the drive to persuade the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO) to support and sponsor the match. August Colenbrander, MD, PhD, created the original match algorithm and single-handedly ran the match process in the early years. Obstacles were overcome, including resistance from the Association of American Medical College's National Resident Matching Program, a challenge to the validity of the algorithm, and the threat that antitrust laws might prohibit all graduate medical education residency match programs. The ophthalmology match evolved over time to become a more formal entity, the San Francisco Matching Program (SF Match). With continued support of the AUPO, the process of matching applicants to residency programs has flourished despite contemporary challenges related to electronic applications and social media. Conclusion The ophthalmology residency matching program has benefited applicants and teaching programs for more than four decades due to visionary founders, ongoing support of the AUPO, and strong leadership within SF Match.