The Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine recently celebrated its annual Match Day at MetLife Stadium, where 136 students learned where they will begin their medical residencies. This event is part of a national tradition for medical students across the United States.
Robert C. Garrett, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health, commented on the occasion: “Our School of Medicine has consistently been at the forefront of preparing exceptional physicians ready to face today’s health care challenges.” He added that it is remarkable to see many students starting their residencies within the health network.
The students are set to complete their education by June 5, with commencement planned for that date. Jeffrey Boscamp, M.D., president and dean of the school, expressed pride in the students' achievements: “We look forward to this event each year and it’s such a proud moment for our students and faculty.”
The Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine plays a role in addressing the physician shortage projected in the United States. A federal estimate suggests there will be a shortage of about 68,000 primary care physicians by 2036. New Jersey already faces an acute situation with only about 17 family doctors per 100,000 residents.
Of those graduating, 99 are from the 2021 cohort completing a four-year track and 37 from the 2022 cohort finishing in three years through the Phase 3-Residency (P3-R) option. Five students have already matched into specific specialties or military programs due to separate match timelines.
This marks the fifth Match Day since Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine received full accreditation from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education in February 2023. Students have previously matched at prestigious institutions across various fields including psychiatry and neurology.
The National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), which facilitated these matches, was established in 1952 to provide an orderly system for matching residency applicants with program directors' preferences.
Hackensack Meridian Health is a leading not-for-profit healthcare organization with numerous facilities throughout New Jersey. The Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine aims to ensure high levels of wellness across diverse populations through its innovative curriculum and community outreach initiatives.
