30 Osteopathic Residency Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Osteopathic Residency interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Ask The Interviewer
1. Do you have any questions about our residency program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most residency programs will have a detailed description on their website stating what is involved with the program, clinical rotations, the primary teaching site, accredited length of training, the residency directors, mentoring, and more. The interviewers want to see that you have researched their program and do not want to answer questions you could have found on their website, showing a lack of attention to detail. Good questions to ask are how the interviewers perceive their program compared to others, what feedback they have received from graduates, the program's strengths, if they offer community service programs during residency, and if any changes are anticipated in the program in the next five years.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"After reading your detailed website and speaking with many of your fellows and residents, most of my questions were answered. I do have a few questions, though. What type of practices are most of your graduates going into after their residency? What type of feedback are you receiving from your graduates? Finally, what would you describe as your program's strengths?"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Behavioral
2. How do you keep your emotions from affecting your work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working in healthcare can be emotional at times. It is normal to feel emotions when working as a physician, but it is imperative to channel them so they do not interfere with your work. Taking good care of your mental and physical health helps channel those emotions, so you can maintain composure when facing work challenges. Let the interviewers know how you remain professional when faced with an emotional workday.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"It is hard not to feel emotional when losing a patient or having to deliver bad news, but I knew it was part of the job going in. I keep my emotions from affecting my work by talking with my colleagues or girlfriend if something is bothering me and taking care of myself away from work. I like to run, which helps clear my mind when feeling emotional. I also think of the good things about a patient I have lost or who is diagnosed with a life-changing condition and do not focus on the sad part. It's easy to keep my emotions from interfering with my work when I know I must be strong for my patients and their families."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Career Goals
3. Do you have plans to pursue an osteopathic fellowship?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
On average, 92.9% of graduating osteopathic residents in the United States pursue a fellowship. The interviewers are curious about your career goals after you complete the residency program and if you will be one of the over 90% who pursue a fellowship. They want to see what sub-specialty interests you and why you chose to continue furthering your education. There is no wrong answer, and this is not a trick question. The interviewers just want to get to know your future goals a little better.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I plan on applying for an emergency medicine fellowship after completing my residency. I aim to work in a Level 1 trauma center in New York after my fellowship, so additional training is necessary to secure a position."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Career Goals
4. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers are curious about your long-term career goals to see how they can support you during your residency. If you are interested in pursuing a fellowship, they want to know your sub-specialty. Or perhaps your goal is to work as a physician or work in a teaching capacity. Let the interviewers know your career goals and why you chose them. Then, describe where you see yourself in ten years.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"In ten years, I see myself working as an emergency department physician at a Level 1 trauma hospital. While obtaining my bachelor's degree, I worked as an EMT for my local ambulance company. I loved working in emergency medicine and decided to become an emergency department physician."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Communication
5. How do you deal with constructive criticism, even when delivered in a manner you do not prefer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You will undoubtedly be given constructive criticism during your osteopathic residency. Sometimes the feedback will not be delivered respectfully, while other times, it will. The interviewers want to see that you can handle any feedback and realize that no matter how constructive criticism is delivered, it is an opportunity for you to grow professionally. Describe how you deal with constructive criticism and use it as a learning opportunity.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"I value constructive criticism. Generally, the person giving me feedback has more experience and knowledge than I do, so I see it as a learning opportunity to grow professionally. I understand everyone has different communication styles, so I do not take it personally if the feedback is delivered differently than I would give."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Compatibility
6. How would you describe your bedside manner?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Bedside manner is a physician's approach or attitude toward a patient. The interviewers ask this question to determine if you have the qualities they seek in a resident. They want to hear that you are kind, patient, friendly, compassionate, and caring. Now is the time to describe how you treat all patients with respect, empathy, kindness, and compassion.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"I would describe my bedside manner as nurturing, comforting, patient, and caring. I approach all patients the same. I introduce myself, ask their name, and what I can do for them. I take the time to actively listen to their concerns, showing them I care about them and want to help them. I believe all healthcare professionals should treat patients the way they want others to treat themselves or loved ones."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Compatibility
7. How will you earn the trust of your colleagues?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is essential to nurture workplace relationships. Talk to the interviewer about how you plan to earn the trust of your colleagues should you be matched with the residency. Focus on giving examples from your past. Describe how you earned the trust of your classmates and colleagues by getting to know them and their families, keeping your word when you say you are going to do something, lending a hand when others need help, or covering a coworker's shift when they have a family emergency.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel the best way to earn the trust of my colleagues is to be helpful, always do what I promise, and be honest with them at all times. Strong relationships have to be built on these principles. Additionally, getting to know my colleagues on a personal level and never being one to gossip helps earn trust."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Compatibility
8. How would your friends describe your personality?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Personality is described as the combination of characteristics and qualities that form an individual's distinctive character. The interviewers ask this question to see how your friends view you and what they would say makes you unique to see if you will be a good candidate for their program. It is best to use three to four words that your friends would use to describe your personality, with examples to show why they would describe you that way.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"My friends would describe my personality as outgoing, friendly, and compassionate. I make friends easily as I love to talk to people and get to know them personally, and I am always friendly with everyone I meet. I believe in treating everyone with kindness and respect and always helping someone when they need assistance. My friends constantly say I am a people person and that I chose the right profession to pursue."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Competency
9. How do you explain the difference between osteopathic and allopathic medicine?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Allopathic medicine focuses on alleviating the symptoms of a disease, while osteopathic medicine is oriented to treating the patient, not the disease. Osteopathic medicine takes a holistic approach, treating the patient as a whole. The interviewers want to hear how you explain the difference between the two types of medicine to see that you have a good understanding of osteopathic medicine and to assess your communication skills. Tell the interviewers how you explain the difference between osteopathic and allopathic medicine.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"I get asked this question often. I tell people the difference between the two types of medicine is that osteopathic medicine takes a more holistic approach, looking at the mind, body, and spirit. While allopathic medicine treats the disease, osteopathic medicine treats the person as a whole. Osteopathic medicine looks at environmental factors, diet, and lifestyle to help diagnose and treat disease and illness. Additionally, osteopathic medical schools require manipulation training on top of the medical coursework so physicians can use manual therapy and manipulation techniques to diagnose and effectively treat patients."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Diligence
10. What made you choose our residency program over others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the United States, there are currently over 200 osteopathic residency programs. The interviewers want to hear that you have researched their program in depth and that you have also compared their program to many others. When responding to this question, highlight unique aspects of their residency program that stand out from others. You may want to participate in their program because of their stellar reputation, dynamic and interactive training program, or because they are a research hospital. Let the interviewers know your reasons for choosing their osteopathic residency program over others.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose your residency program over others for several reasons. First, your mission of training residents to provide compassionate care to a diverse population resonates with my values. Secondly, your program was the first osteopathic residency program in the country. After researching your program in greater depth, I was excited to see that you offer many opportunities in research, teaching, and patient care. You offer pathways for residents with specific career interests in providing patient and family-centered care in urban and suburban community hospitals, which is the career path I want to take. After reading all you have to offer and with the recommendation from former residents, there is no other program I would rather attend."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Diligence
11. What do you feel the day in the life of an osteopathic resident looks like?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every specialty will have a slightly different day in the life of a resident. The interviewers want to see that you have done your homework and understand your daily life as an osteopathic resident. Some programs describe what a resident's day looks like on their website. If the program you applied to does not have that information, speak with former or current fellows and residents or visit the university or medical center and talk to the program directors. It would be best if you understood what your day entails before starting the program so there are no surprises.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"After speaking with a former resident of your program, I have a good understanding of the daily life of a resident. After the morning staff meeting, I will be assigned between 5-8 patients. I will review their charts, perform rounds on my patients, and develop daily plans with a senior resident. The afternoons are typically spent ordering tests, writing notes, and performing procedures. If I am on call, I will take the consult pager at 3:00 pm and see consults until 7:00 pm."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Direct
12. Why should we choose you over other applicants?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the United States, an osteopathic residency is a somewhat competitive residency to match to, with a match rate of only 54%. The interviewers want to hear why they should choose you over others competing to match. While there are many qualified candidates, you must let the interviewers know why you are a top-notch applicant. Tell the interviewers about your away rotations, research experience, volunteer work, test scores, GPA, and any other achievements or accolades that will make the interviewers remember you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"I am sure many qualified applicants are applying to your program. However, it would be best if you chose me because of my dedication, research experience, and leadership skills. I have proven my dedication to this field by volunteering for the past four years at a children's hospital while attending medical school. I have developed my research skills, given presentations, and written abstracts on pediatric pharmacotherapy while critically evaluating the original research. During my research experience, my leadership skills were noticed and commended by professors who told me I have natural leadership abilities. I look forward to the opportunity to bring these skills to your esteemed osteopathic residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Discovery
13. Why did you choose to become a physician?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what inspires and motivates you to pursue this career. They want to hear if another DO mentored you, if you have family or friends who work in healthcare, or if you received excellent care from an osteopathic physician.
Focus on giving your personal reason for choosing this career, responding with enthusiasm and passion. There is no right or wrong answer. The interviewers want to gain insight into what made you pursue this career path to see if you will be a good fit for their residency program.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose to become a physician as a freshman in high school. I discovered I loved science and biology and was fascinated with anatomy and physiology. The more I learned about the human body and its power to heal, the more I leaned toward medicine. I spoke with my family physician about how she became a doctor and if she was happy with her career choice. She told me about the differences between osteopathic and allopathic medicine and why she chose to become a DO versus an MD. She said she was happy with her career choice and encouraged me to pursue my dream. I feel fortunate to have a career I love and one that helps people in my community live healthier lives."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Discovery
14. What is your least favorite part about being a physician?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most physicians find more pros than cons to working as a doctor. However, there are some, such as long hours, being on call, rules and regulations, dealing with insurance companies, and rude patients. The interviewers want to hear what you like the least about being a physician to learn more about your personality. Be sure you briefly say what you like least, then end on a positive note by explaining how the good aspects of being a physician outweigh the bad.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"My least favorite part of working as a physician is the sacrifices my family has to make when I am working long hours and on holidays. However, I discussed the challenges we would face as a family before going to medical school, and they understood and supported me. We have developed a plan to celebrate holidays and birthdays on my day off before the event, so we don't miss out on spending time together as a family."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Discovery
15. Tell us something about yourself that is not found on your CV.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers would like to learn more about you as a person. While you cannot share everything about your personal life and accomplishments on your CV, there must be something you are proud of that you would like to share. If possible, share something about yourself that shows the interviewers you would be a good fit for the residency program. For example, if you share that you compete in bodybuilding competitions, the interviewers will see that you are dedicated and diligent, both essential qualities for residents to possess.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"Something I am proud of that is not on my resume is that I have a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. I am proud of this accomplishment because it took me ten years of hard work and dedication to receive my belt. I enjoy keeping in shape and knowing how to defend myself in a non-violent manner. For the last two years, I have competed in the World Jiu-Jitsu Championship in Brazil and won second and third place in my weight class."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Discovery
16. What are three strengths you would bring to our program as a resident?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see if you have the characteristics and qualities they seek in a resident. They want to hear that you are self-aware and confident enough to identify and describe your strengths. Think of three strengths that will help you succeed as a resident and bring value to the osteopathic residency program. Some strengths that will make you stand out as a candidate include the following:
- Strong work ethic
- Leadership
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Diligence
- Compassion
After listing your three strengths, give examples of how they will help you succeed as a resident.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"The three strengths I would bring to the program as a resident is my thirst for knowledge, my strong work ethic, and my active listening skills. I look forward to working with mentors to train me further as an osteopathic physician. I actively listen to my patients, mentors, and colleagues, which earns their respect and trust. I always arrive early to work and do tasks before I am told. I actively seek ways to help others and look forward to bringing these strengths to your program as a resident."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Discovery
17. What is your greatest weakness?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear about your greatest weakness as a physician to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
Focus on a weakness related to your profession, but not one that is an essential job duty. For example, suppose you say your weakness is your verbal communication skills. In that case, the interviewers may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is essential to being an excellent physician and resident.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness is my typing speed. I can type 40 words per minute, which is average. However, my goal is to get to 60 words per minute. I want to improve my typing speed because it will help me when taking notes and charting. I signed up for an online typing course and started one week ago. The course outline says I can go from amateur to pro in thirty days, spending half an hour a day practicing. My goal is to be at 60 words per minute in the next thirty days. I am confident my typing speed will improve greatly during my residency as I have already seen an improvement."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Discovery
18. What do you like to do in your free time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to see what interests you and if you have healthy avenues to decompress from the pressure of being an osteopathic resident. They want to know that you have a healthy work/life balance and that you do not only study in your free time. While that may seem like a good answer, residents need time away from work and their studies to care for their mental and physical health and prevent burnout and illness.
Since you are applying for a residency, you want to put your best foot forward. You want to avoid describing interests that may seem unprofessional or unhealthy to the interviewers. Some examples of what to avoid are saying you enjoy spending your free time lying around watching movies, playing video games, or going clubbing with your friends. While those activities are harmless and a great way to unwind, the interviewers may view them as unhealthy or unprofessional for a resident.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"In my free time, I enjoy activities that keep me in shape. My favorite activities are hiking with my dogs, paddle boarding, and mountain biking. When the weather is bad, and I cannot do those activities, I enjoy working on projects around my house, cooking, and reading true-crime novels."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Discovery
19. Do you aspire to have your own practice one day? If so, what about business ownership interests you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the United States, more than one-third of osteopathic physicians are in private practice. The interviewers ask this question to understand your career goals and where you see yourself working after completing your residency and/or fellowship. If you do not plan to own your own business, explain why. If you would like to start a practice in the future, describe why business ownership appeals to you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, my goal is to go into private practice with another physician. Due to the start-up costs, it isn't feasible for me to practice alone. However, I have a friend who is finishing her osteopathic residency, and she would like to open a practice with me after I complete my residency. What I like about business ownership is the freedom it will give me with my patients. I will be able to charge reduced fees for the community members who cannot afford healthcare and even volunteer some of my services. If I worked for a hospital or another medical group, I would be bound by their rules and regulations, which does not interest me."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Discovery
20. Who in your life has inspired you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers will ask this question to see if someone motivated you to pursue a career as an osteopathic physician and to hear how you communicate and connect with others. It is best to describe a person you are close to and avoid political or religious figures. You do not know the interviewers' beliefs and do not want to offend anyone.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"So many people have inspired me in my life. If I had to choose who has inspired me the most, I would say my father. When I was three years old, my father was a soldier and was injured in Iraq. He returned home with an amputated leg and arm and PTSD. He went through many years of counseling and is now a motivational speaker who helps other wounded veterans. He has always been there for me and my family, never complained, and proved that you can get through anything with hard work and dedication."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Discovery
21. Why did you choose osteopathic medicine over allopathic medicine?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
There are two types of degree programs to become a physician in the United States, an MD (allopathic) degree and a DO (osteopathic) degree. More than 93% of physicians have allopathic degrees, while only 14% have osteopathic degrees. The interviewers want to hear your reason for choosing osteopathic medicine over traditional allopathic medicine. As this is your personal reason for choosing to become an osteopathic physician, there is no incorrect answer.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose osteopathic medicine over traditional allopathic medicine as I am more interested in taking a holistic approach with my patients. I like the philosophy of osteopathic medicine, treating the patient as a whole and not only treating the symptoms and injuries. I was also interested in providing manual therapy and manipulation techniques which are not taught in allopathic medical schools."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Discovery
22. After researching our curriculum, which rotation are you looking forward to, and why?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every osteopathic residency program will have its own rotation schedule, which you most likely saw when researching the residency program. The interviewers ask this question to see where your interests lie and to see that you have thoroughly researched their osteopathic residency program. Explain what rotation you most look forward to and why.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"I am looking forward to every rotation you offer, but the one I am most excited about is the emergency medicine rotation. I have experience with emergency medicine after working as a combat medic. I enjoy working in that fast-paced environment and am thrilled the rotation is at one of the country's largest Level 1 Trauma Centers."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Discovery
23. Tell us about your volunteer experience.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Volunteer experience is all unpaid activities and committees you have been involved in. The interviewers ask this question to gain insight into your personality traits and hobbies that are important to you, such as being on a leadership council or debate committee. Volunteerism also shows the interviewers that you like to give back to the community and are selfless with your time. Tell the interviewers about your volunteer experience, no matter how small it may seem. The more volunteer experience you have, the better your chance to match with the program.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"My family introduced me to volunteering at ten years old, and I continue to volunteer to this day. During medical school, I had the opportunity to volunteer with Doctors Without Borders, International Medical Corps, and Africa Health Placements, providing medical services to communities in developing countries. I am also an AMA medical student outreach leader and student member of the AMA Foundation Board. I like that part of the curriculum for your program includes community outreach, and I look forward to being involved in that if matched with your residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Discovery
24. What part of the residency will be the most challenging for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every residency program will have challenges. Finances, work/life balance, relocation, time management, research, studying, and patient care, to name a few. The interviewers want to see that you are proactive and have identified what will be most challenging and decided how to overcome the challenge. Describe what will be the most difficult part of your residency and what you plan to do about it.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest challenge will be relocating to a new city and not knowing anyone. I went to medical school in my hometown and knew many of my classmates, professors, and hospital staff. Both of my parents work in the medical field, and they introduced me to many healthcare professionals when I was growing up. However, while moving to a new place where I do not know anyone will be challenging, I look forward to making new friends and memories. I bought a guidebook on the city and plan to explore by bicycle when I have downtime. Also, with technology, I can stay in contact with my friends and family back home while doing my residency."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Discovery
25. What surgical case have you found most fascinating in your training?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You were exposed to many types of surgeries during your clinical rotations as a med student. The interviewers ask this question to gain insight into what you have been exposed to in your training and what you find fascinating. There is no wrong answer; the interviewers simply want to learn more about your personality and what surgical cases interest you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"The surgical case I found most fascinating was a rotationplasty reconstructive surgery. A pediatric patient with Ewing sarcoma near the knee was unresponsive to other treatments. The surgeon removed the bottom of the patient's femur, the knee, and the upper tibia. He then attached the foot to the knee backward. Once a prosthetic was fitted, the ankle of the foot then functioned as a knee. The patient responded well to the surgery and was able to live an active life. It was a truly amazing surgery to witness."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Stress
26. What part of medical school was the most stressful for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear what part of medical school was most stressful to determine what aspects of the residency program may be challenging. They also want to hear how you managed your stress so they can understand your coping mechanisms. Describe what you found most stressful and what steps you took to reduce your stress. You could also break down the most stressful part of each year and how you coped, showing the interviewers that you successfully managed your stress as each year progressed.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"The hardest part of medical school was time management. After attending college for four years, I thought I had above-average time management skills, but medical school was another story. With the increased course load and working a part-time job, it made time management very challenging and stressful. I started using my Apple calendar and wrote down all my exams, meetings, practicals, shifts, bills, and due dates. I could then see where I had open gaps to schedule time for myself. I would use that time to exercise, rest, read for pleasure, and see friends and family. Once I got my time management under control, it made medical school much less stressful."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Teamwork
27. How well do you collaborate with others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a physician, you must collaborate well with others. You will lead multidisciplinary healthcare teams and work with other specialized healthcare professionals. As an osteopathic resident, you will collaborate with attending physicians, patients, residents, and fellows. The interviewers want to hear that you work well with others and will be a valued team player if matched to their residency program.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"I enjoy working with others and do so very well. I like taking a team approach to healthcare and involving family members, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to develop the best treatment plan for each patient. I believe a team approach accomplishes greater things than working alone, as we can all learn from each other's experiences."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Tough
28. How do you cope when losing a patient?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a physician, there will be times when you will have patients that die from old age, injury, or illness. The interviewers want to hear that you have coping mechanisms to keep from becoming overwhelmed with the loss of life you will see in your career. It is essential for healthcare professionals to have someone they can speak with and have healthy avenues to decompress to prevent burnout, illness, and injury. Describe how you cope when losing a patient.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"It is never easy losing a patient. As a physician, I got into this profession to help people, so it is sad to see them die. But I knew that was part of the job before going to medical school, so I have the mindset that patients will unfortunately not always make it. I cope by knowing I did the best I could for them. If a particular death bothers me more than others, I talk with colleagues or my pastor, which always seems to help. I also take care of myself mentally and physically so the grief doesn't take control of my emotions."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Tough
29. How would you approach a patient that refused care based on their religious beliefs, even if you knew their decision could cause them to die?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to see that you accept a patient's right to refuse care for any reason, including their religious beliefs. If a patient is of sound mind, they can refuse care, even if you disagree with their decision. The interviewers want to hear that you would ensure the patient was informed they could die if they refused care and that you honor their decision even if it is difficult for you to accept.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"I understand that it might be difficult to accept, but I would need to honor my patient's wishes if they refuse care for any reason. I would inform them of all the possibilities treatment could provide, and that refusing care could cause death. I would also offer them to get a second or third opinion if they choose. Once the patient is fully informed, I would have them sign an against medical advice form following my hospital's protocols."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Tough
30. Describe a time when you had your ethics tested.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a physician, you may sometimes be asked to do unethical things. The interviewers ask this question to see that you are honest and have integrity. They want to hear that you have morals and can be trusted in your position. Some examples could be witnessing someone cheat or steal something or someone asking you to do something you knew was morally wrong. Describe a time you had your ethics tested and how you responded.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022
Answer Example
"I had my ethics tested during my first year of medical school. I was on a very strict budget and did not have much money since medical school costs were so high. I found a purse in a basket in the parking lot of a grocery store. I opened up the purse, and there was $10,000 inside. No one was around, and I could have kept the money, but morally and ethically, I knew it was wrong. I was raised to do the right thing, so I went to the address on the person's driver's license and found the purse's owner. She was so grateful and started crying. She had just withdrawn the money from the bank to buy her teenage son a car for his birthday. She explained that she was a single mother and had saved for years to be able to afford to buy her son a car. It made me feel so good that I was the one who had found the purse and did the right thing by returning it."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 31st, 2022