International Medical Graduates' perceptions about residency training experience: a qualitative study

Objective: To explore International Medical Graduates resi-dents' experiences and perspectives of their residency train-ing program.Methods: This qualitative study was conducted at a large re-search-intensive University. Purposeful sampling was used to recruit 14 International medical graduates. The residents recruited for this study were at different levels in their train-ing ranging from Postgraduate year one to five. Residents in-terviewed represented seven unique specialties. Each trainee was interviewed, and the data were recorded and transcribed verbatim. A thematic analysis framework was used to con-duct the data analysis, resulting in the development of study themes.Results: Our analysis generated six main themes. These themes were related to costly decisions, unspoken expecta-tions, the stigma associated with being an IMG, fears of being an IMG, the strength and resilience of IMGs, and recommen-dations proposed by IMGs for program improvement.Conclusions: In this study, we wanted to explore interna-tional residents' experiences with their programs. The expe-rience of each individual international resident is unique. However, in this study, we were able to provide firsthand per-ceptions of IMGs from a research-intensive university and identified common themes experienced and perceived by our residents. This study's findings may help educate, reduce stigma, and guide the implementation of effective individual and systemic support for these trainees. Which in turn will enhance the overall educational experiences for IMGs train-ees. Our study found that themes seem to be recurring, hence, an urgency to bring about appropriate changes, equi-table opportunities, and support for IMGs.