unfilled spots on doximity?

[interpreter]

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I am looking at doximity IM rankings and noticed that for each program, usually the number of filled spots is less than the number of "approved" spots. For some programs (even the top ones) the difference can be as much as 5-10. Does this mean that every year 1-2 people usually drop out or change out of most programs? Because according to NRMP data good programs do not go unfilled in the match. Is there something else that can explain this discrepancy - for instance the positions to be filled during the match can be less than the number of "approved" spots at the discretion of the program administration? Should someone looking to switch specialties care about these positions, as if they are actually up for grabs?

 

[gutonc]

The simplest explanation is that whatever you read on Doximity is total bulls**t.

The more complicated explanation is the exact same thing as the simple one.

 

[ArkansasMed]

The simplest explanation is that whatever you read on Doximity is total bulls**t.

The more complicated explanation is the exact same thing as the simple one.

I love this explanation haha.

Some people do get dismissed (not very common but does happen), others switch specialties or transfer to other programs for a variety of reasons. Another less thought of explanation is some residents go off to do the truncated research pathway (I think it is called ABIM research pathway) and finish their training in 2 years then go to fellowship. Some programs you apply as a medical student to the track, others you can apply to it as a resident. This can count for the gaps seen from positions filled to spots available.