Dear SAU members,

The SAU BOD is aware of a relatively new component to the recruitment process 2024-2025 Urology Match whereby some programs are providing financial stipends to applicants to offset the costs associated with in-person interviews. The SAU has previously outlined the rationale for programs to be able to self-determine interview formats for this match cycle. We have received feedback that institutional constraints are preventing commensurate stipends as well concerns surrounding the fairness and equity of this practice. There is complexity within the urology recruitment process in the context of GME employment and how it is both similar and dissimilar to other industries recruiting practices, all within the backdrop of organizational change regarding interview methods.

The SAU BOD has taken the following actions:

1. The BOD held robust discussion on the topic during scheduled meetings and recognizes the likely intent of programs to decrease the financial burden to applicants while facilitating in-person interviews if they deem this interview method is most appropriate for their program. The BOD also agrees there may be equity, fairness and ethical concerns. This is an emerging issue that that the SAU will monitor closely during this match cycle.
2. We will incorporate new survey questions to the relevant stakeholders into the annual SAU applicant and program director surveys. We highly encourage participation in these surveys.
3. We will incorporate this topic for group discussion and further feedback at our winter or spring meeting.

SAU BOD