Ninety-six individuals nationwide recently learned via the algorithm-driven National Resident Matching Program that they “matched” to MAHEC for their residency or fellowship training programs. Their training as they serve Western North Carolina patients could last for as many as five to seven years, depending on their chosen specialty—and if history is any indication, the majority will establish permanent practices in the region, fulfilling MAHEC’s founding mission and vision to improve healthcare access in our region.

 “Match Day holds special significance for us at MAHEC," said CEO William R. Hathaway, MD. "Currently, we have more than 230 residents and fellows serving Western North Carolina under our tutelage. Our graduate medical education program has more than doubled in seven years, offering training in a wide array of specialties. This growth reflects our deep commitment to preparing the next generation of healthcare providers to meet the needs of Western North Carolina and beyond.” 

In addition to the experience learners will gain under the instruction of highly skilled faculty members at MAHEC’s 15 offices, they’ll have the opportunity to train in a variety of other settings. “We are profoundly grateful for the collaboration of our healthcare partners across Western North Carolina," saod Hathaway. "The 200-plus hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems that work with us every day are essential in the training of our residents. Without this support, this work would not be possible.” 

Among those sites are AdventHealth Hendersonville, Broughton Hospital, Charles George VA Medical Center, Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority, Duke LifePoint Healthcare, Erlanger Health System, Mission Health, UNC Health Appalachian, and UNC Health Pardee.

“Mission Hospital is proud to serve as the primary clinical training site for MAHEC," said Francis Maness, MBA, FACHE, vice president of GME, Mission Health. "Together with MAHEC, we have created an environment where residents feel that they matter, and where they can grow in their capabilities. At Mission Health, and across HCA Healthcare, we strive to create a positive working and learning environment for our residents, fellows and faculty in hopes they will remain in Western North Carolina long after their formal training concludes.”

 Filling nearly 100 available residency and fellowship positions at MAHEC is a result of intentional recruiting strategies that began months before Match Day. "This year, as recruitment began, Hurricane Helene struck, devastating the region," said Hathaway. "We weren’t sure how this might impact the number of candidates interested in coming to Western North Carolina. But we received nearly 6,250 applications and conducted more than 1,200 interviews. We take immense pride in these remarkable numbers, as it highlights the strength and national reputation of MAHEC’s training programs.”

The need is growing for quality, well-trained physicians. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), a shortage of up to 124,000 physicians is projected in the United States within the next decade, with rural areas experiencing an even greater lack of healthcare professionals than those in urban parts of the country. 

Programs like those offered by MAHEC provide exposure to practicing in rural communities and are essential for ensuring there is an adequate workforce to meet current and future healthcare needs. 

"Pardee is proud to uphold our commitment to training the next generation of healthcare professionals," said Jay Kirby, president and CEO, UNC Health Pardee. "Through our valued partnership with MAHEC, we are able to provide new medical school graduates with the opportunity to learn alongside our outstanding clinical team, gaining hands-on experience and a deep appreciation for delivering high-quality, compassionate care.

"Our hope is that these providers will choose to build their careers in our region, strengthening our healthcare community and enhancing patient care for years to come."

Source: MAHEC.