This is something I always wondered about, and maybe a resident or fellow can give some insight. When is it worth it to do a chief year, as opposed to just taking your chances with the regular fellowship match? Is chief year something you can decide to do if you failed to match, or do you have to commit early? Is a chief year worth doing for someone with a reasonable shot at matching?
1. When is it worth it to do a chief year, as opposed to just taking your chances with the regular fellowship match?
Depends on the program. Some places require commitment before fellowship applications, others after. If you are in the before camp, then you need to be very, very realistic about your chances...do you *think* you are a competitive applicant or *hope* you are one? If you hope, hedge your bets, do the chief year. If you really, really think you can do it, go for it.
2. Is chief year something you can decide to do if you failed to match, or do you have to commit early?
Depends on the program. My program asked me early, I said no thanks, and by the grace of the Almighty and the skin of the skin of my teeth, I matched and didn't have to regret the decision. My friend was applying for cards, was asked after me, and he took it with a wink and a nod that he'd be very competitive to match at the program for next year.
3. Is a chief year worth doing for someone with a reasonable shot at matching?
Well, now it becomes a personal question. A chief year is not by any means fun. At some places, you are a bobblehead... yes sir, thank you sir for the PD and you carry out their edicts. At others, you are given more free reign as to how you will engineer the residents' schedules, conferences, etc. You also play mother, father, pastor, referee, and any other role you can think of to residents who will often complain, seldom thank you. You do, however, get to see how the sausage is made, and it does get you bumped up some lists.
Chief year is the Ribavirin of fellowship applications...it won't guarantee sustained response on its own, but it can sure help!