Recently the NRMP requested public comment on the concept of a two-phase residency Match. In part, the plan would mitigate weaknesses in the Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program (SOAP), which provides the opportunity of unfilled positions to eligible unmatched residency candidates. SOAP replaced the Scramble, an inferior system from years ago. SOAP still has its weaknesses, however, including an expedited timeline for decision-making by candidates and programs.

See a full description of the proposed two-phase residency Match here. Of note, the first Match Day, which would be analogous to the current Match Day, would occur a month earlier in February. Accordingly, interview season would be shorter. 

The plan has many benefits, but it would require some adjustments in candidates’ and residency directors’ calendars and thinking.