Factors influencing family practice residency selection: a national survey.

: The changes in family practice residency selection from 1978 to 1981 were studied by means of a questionnaire, and selection of family practice residency was identified by region. The relationship between the administrative status of family practice (department, division, or no formal unit) and selection of family practice residency was studied, and the opinions of medical school faculty respondents were sought concerning why interest in family practice has increased (or decreased) at their institution. The average percentage of graduates selecting family practice residency varies by region. Schools with stronger institutional commitment to family practice, as evidenced by departmental status, have a higher percentage of graduates entering family practice. Respondents felt that the presence or absence of student contact with family practice was the most important reason for changes seen in residency choice.