Interesting, I assumed that the field would become more selective over time. Or is it because just getting accepted to medical school itself is already extremely competitive?
The specialties with better quality of life (e.g. dermatology) have become increasingly competitive, drawing some of the top students away from the more masochistic fields.
I have heard that getting into medical school is a lot harder than it used to be too. It might be the reason why it's easier to be a surgeon once your in. I'm not a doctor or a med student, so take that with a grain of salt.