The MATCH

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The Match is the system by which doctors and hospitals choose each other . Doctors make a list of the residency programs they would like to join . They list the programs by order of preference, from most wanted to least wanted. The programs make a similar list . Both lists are submitted to the NRMP . The NRMP uses a computer to match the doctor to the program by comparing their choices .

Be sure to apply to an accredited program.

Please note, some specialty programs have their own, independant "match". This must be appplied to separately. It is also possible to apply for some programs over the internet .

Independant applicants, such as IMGs should write to the NRMP by June . The NRMP sends the applicant forms for joining the Match and a universal application form . Send back the form for joining the Match . It must reach them before the Independent Applicant Agreement deadline . The deadline for the 1997 Match was OCT. 31st 1996 .

International medical graduates need to pass Step I and II of the USMLE as well as the english test and their credentials are verified by the ECFMG. They are then issued an ECFMG certificate which is necessary for the Match.

US and Canadian medical students usually apply through their medical school.

The universal application form is very useful for contacting programs . Most programs accept this application form . Some will want you to fill out their own forms. The procedure varies from program to program . Be sure to have sent out all your applications by the end of June or at the latest by the first week of October. Remember, it takes time for your applications to reach the programs. There are a limited number of interview slots. The earlier you send out applications, the better your chances of being interviewed.

After choosing a program/s enter them on the Match form and submit it by the deadline. Always allow time for it to reach them . The deadline for the 1997 Match was FEB. 21st 1997 . More details can be found in the NRMP booklet "Handbook for independent applicants " which is sent with the application forms .

The NRMP address has recently changed . As of June 1st 1996 the new address is :

National Resident Matching Program
2501 M Street , NW , Suite 1
Washington , DC 20037 - 1307
USA
tel. (202) 828-0566
http://www.aamc.org/about/progemph/nrmp/start.htm

Going through the Match

There are a few things that it is useful to know when going for a Match position. You may find some of them here. This is from my perspective and will be aimed mostly at IMG's. If you are an American medical student, your med school will probably be able to help you a lot. To improve your chances in the next Match, plan ahead. Include:

  1. Mailing to programs complete applications by July.
  2. Doing an externship or observership in a hospital and getting good letters of recommendation.
  3. If you can do the observership/externship in a place with a program you want to join all the better.
  4. Apply to as many places as you can. Community hospitals select candidates early, so mail early.
  5. Mail COMPLETE applications.

  6. Interview confidently. Suit etc.
  7. Get books on the Match , they may have more ideas.
  8. Consider doing Step III . A good score may help.

Be sure to send out applications for the Match by June. Many programs fill in their application slots very early. Once these are saturated, they cannot give you an interview.

Each program has its own preference when it comes to what you have to submit to make your application complete. This package may include:

  1. A completed Universal Apllication form (you will get this when you apply to the NRMP).
  2. A nice photograph.
  3. A personal statement.
  4. A C.V. (curriculum vitae).
  5. Photocopies of your Step I, Step II and maybe even Step III scores if you have them.
  6. A copy of your ECFMG certificate.

  7. A letter from the Dean of your Medical School telling the world how Oustanding you are.
  8. Letters of recommendation from senior doctors you have worked with, who would love to have this oustanding doctor stay with them, but he wants a little experience abroad.
  9. A transcript of your medical school scores.

  10. If you have done an internship, observership or externship in the U.S., this will probably help a lot. Try to get glowing letters of recommendation from your Attendings.
  11. Try to provide a cover letter to your aplllication. Say that you are applying for a PGY-1 position in ________ Starting in ______ and you hope this application is complete but you will gladly send them anything that is needed to complete it if they will let you know. Include an address and phone no. , even an e-mail address if you have one.
When a hospital phones up and says "can you come on this date..." don't keep them waiting. Fix an interview as soon as possible. Some say earlier dates are better. Some say late dates are better. Bear in mind where it is. You don't want to be stuck in a snow storm on your interview day.

California has special requirements for IMG's applying for a residency in that Sunny State.

All residencies are competitive. Choose the ones you want. A peek at this year's Match might help you see how competitive the ones you want are.

Check the 1997 match results at http://www.aamc.org/nrmp/ .

There are a number of books on the Match and Interviews. They include:

Are any friends doing their residency? Ask them for advice. Let me know if you feel anything is missing here.

Well that's about all I can think of now.

Good luck.

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