Hackensack University Medical Center Program
Location:
Hackensack, NJSpecialty:
Emergency medicineACGME Code:
1103300213NRMP Program Code:
1387110C1, 1387110C0The Emergency Medicine Residency Program at Hackensack University Medical Center (HUMC) is a comprehensive three-year program accredited by the ACGME. Located in northern New Jersey, just a short distance from New York City, HUMC stands out as the busiest Emergency Department in the state of New Jersey, handling over 140,000 emergency visits annually, making it among the top 10 busiest emergency departments nationwide. The residency program is dedicated to training competent and compassionate emergency medicine physicians in a stimulating and resource-rich environment.
HUMC is a level I trauma center equipped with specialized facilities, including a STEMI center and a comprehensive stroke center. The program emphasizes advanced emergency care and education, fostering an environment of inquiry and excellence. The faculty comprises fellowship-trained professionals in various fields, including critical care, toxicology, pediatric emergency medicine, and medical education, ensuring a robust learning experience for residents.1
Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum of the Emergency Medicine Residency at HUMC is structured to offer broad-based training with a strong foundation of critical care exposure. The academic year is divided into 13 four-week blocks, with ample time designated for various rotations:
- PGY-1 Year:
- 25 Weeks of Emergency Medicine
- 4 Weeks of Pediatric Emergency Medicine
- 4 Weeks of Trauma
- 4 Weeks in Medical Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
- 4 Weeks of Vacation
- 3 Weeks of Obstetrics and Gynecology
- 2 Weeks each in Anesthesia and Ultrasound
- PGY-2 Year:
- 35 Weeks of Emergency Medicine
- 4 Weeks of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)
- 3 Weeks of Community Emergency Medicine
- 4 Weeks of Vacation
- 2 Weeks each in Pediatric Emergency Medicine and EMS
- 2 Weeks of Elective
- PGY-3 Year:
- 30 Weeks of Emergency Medicine
- 4 Weeks of Medical ICU
- 4 Weeks of Elective
- 2 Weeks each in Surgical ICU, Critical Care ICU, and Toxicology
- 4 Weeks of Vacation
Residents also have opportunities to pursue elective rotations, including a unique experience in St. Croix, USVI, and specialized rotations in Toxicology, Pharmacotherapy, and Palliative Care.2
Educational Opportunities
The residency program at HUMC emphasizes a commitment to continuous education and professional development through various modalities:
- Weekly conferences featuring didactic instruction on core EM topics.
- Monthly journal clubs for discussing recent evidence in EM practice.
- Dedicated simulation training to enhance procedural skills.
- Access to regional and national conferences, including sponsorship for travel.3
Diversity and Inclusion
The program is committed to creating an inclusive environment and has established a Diversity and Inclusion Committee consisting of faculty and residents working towards culturally competent care. A scholarship rotation is available for underrepresented students, providing financial assistance while enriching their educational experience at HUMC.4
Application Process and Requirements
HUMC offers 12 categorical PGY-1 positions each year via the NRMP. The program accepts applications through ERAS and has a set of requirements including:
- Completed application form
- Personal statement
- Medical school transcripts
- USMLE/COMLEX scores, including at least one SLOE as required
The application process also includes virtual interviews for all applicants, facilitating a broad selection process.5
Competitiveness and Support
The Emergency Medicine Residency Program at HUMC is known for being competitive. It welcomes applications from both DO and IMGs and provides robust support for visa sponsorships, including H-1B and J-1 visas for international medical graduates. This commitment to diversity enhances the richness of the learning environment, resulting in a culturally and clinically competent medical community.6
Wellness Initiatives
Recognizing the challenges of residency, HUMC has implemented numerous wellness initiatives aimed at preventing burnout and supporting residents' overall health. These include wellness days, behavioral health sessions, a dedicated wellness curriculum, and team bonding events.7
Website
Director
Christina Hajicharalambous, DO, MS, MSEdProgram Director Appointed Since February 2021Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
55hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$73,620First Year Paid Vacation:
20 daysFirst Year Paid Sick Leave:
5 daysTraining
Fellowship Rate:
8%Faculty to Residents Ratio:
1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
J1YOG Cutoff:
7Match History
1387110C0
2024
9 of 92023
9 of 92022
9 of 92021
9 of 92020
10 of 101387110C1
2024
3 of 32023
3 of 32022
3 of 32021
0 of 3Location
Hackensack, NJ
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Hackensack, NJ
- Crime Rate and Safety: Hackensack is considered a relatively safe city with a crime rate lower than the national average.
- Fun Activities: Residents can enjoy various parks, shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural attractions in the area. There are also community events and festivals held throughout the year.
- Climate: Hackensack has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cold winters. Residents experience all four seasons.
- Races and Population: The population of Hackensack is diverse, with a mix of different races and ethnicities contributing to the community's rich cultural tapestry.
- Education: Hackensack is home to several schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools. There are also higher education institutions nearby.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Hackensack is higher than the national average, particularly in terms of housing and transportation.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Hackensack is approximately a 30-minute drive (depending on traffic) from New York City. Residents can easily access the Big Apple for entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Proximity to New York City, diverse population, relatively safe environment.
- Cons: Higher cost of living, traffic congestion during peak hours.
Interview Questions
