The topic came up in our staff meeting today here in our residency. As has been confirmed, our program chair discussed the latest. According to him, this decision was made without any representative of specialty or AEGD/GPR programs present. That's pretty significant since the change most directly affects those groups specifically. It was his opinion that this is not set in stone (despite what was released) and there is an active appeal on behalf of post-grad programs from multiple sources.
To those arguing that the board exams are an antiquated entity. I do agree that the test is a bit outdated, but I still strongly believe that it is a necessary component of a post-grad application. Anywhere there is an application process in life, there has to be some sort of system to quantify/rate applicants. Otherwise, it would be impossible to justify choosing one person over another. Any system without these checks and balances is open to corruption, whether it's financially or in another manner. Getting a high score on part I (let's say 90+) is pretty 'easily' obtained if someone with average to above average academic ability puts in the time and effort. It's pretty much a test of rote memorization, but that's how it serves its purpose. Those that put the effort and time into the test typically do well. Much in the same as those who put in the time and effort in dental school, which results in great letters of rec and a well-rounded person, makes a student a stronger applicant. Sure, that doesn't mean that they make a better orthodontist or oral surgeon but it means they put the work in to deserve a spot in a post-graduate program. Stripping applicants of a way to show that desire (board scores) does nothing but help those who are trying to get something for nothing. Yes, there are other ways to show desire but it's impossible to objectively compare them unless they are quantitative and standardized. For those who study hard and can't get a competitive score, well, sorry but that's life. There is always going to be someone better and someone smarter, and the sooner you realize it the better off you will be. This really is a terrible idea but it is what it is.
[stepping down from soapbox]