Akron Children’s pediatric residency program achieves 100% board pass rate

01-14-2026 (Akron, Mahoning Valley, Ohio)

Akron Children’s Pediatric Residency Program achieved a 100% board pass rate among its most recent graduating class, surpassing the national average and reflecting the program’s emphasis on academic preparation and clinical training.

“This is a significant accomplishment and shows that we have prepared our residents well for clinical care,” said Dr. Sabrina Ben-Zion, interim program director of the Pediatric Residency Program at Akron Children’s. “Board certification represents rigorous standards beyond a state medical license and demonstrates specialized expertise in caring for infants, children and adolescents.”

The residency program emphasizes consistent board preparation throughout training. Residents complete quarterly test-question requirements, with performance benchmarks tailored to their level of training, to encourage ongoing engagement with exam content rather than last-minute studying.

Academic progress is supported through structured advising. Each resident is assigned an academic advisor and meets quarterly to review performance, including standardized test preparation. The program director also meets with each resident twice a year to review overall progress.

While board success is an important milestone, Akron Children’s focuses on preparing residents for real-world pediatric practice. Residents are exposed to high patient volumes and a wide range of medical conditions, helping build clinical confidence and readiness.

The hospital’s community-based training model, particularly its continuity clinic experience, provides residents with hands-on exposure to the day-to-day practice of general pediatrics.

“Our goal is to graduate competent and compassionate pediatricians who provide excellent care to children,” Dr. Ben-Zion said.

The 100% board pass rate complements the program’s 2025 100% residency match rate, highlighting its ability to attract and develop residents preparing for fellowship training or general pediatric practice.

“This achievement reflects the dedication of our residents and faculty and makes me optimistic about the future of graduate medical education at Akron Children’s,” Dr. Ben-Zion said.

To learn more about the pediatric residency program at Akron Children’s, visit akronchildrens.org.