54 B . Johnson : J Extra Corpor Technol 2025 , 57 , 53 – 55 responses . These short deadlines , in turn , have compelled students to make early decisions without knowing what other opportunities might arise later .
Numerous platforms employing NMS methodologies are already utilized in healthcare fields such as medicine , pharmacy , dentistry , psychology , and optometry . Traditionally , these platforms have been used to place healthcare residents and interns [ 11 ]. However , their services have expanded to include school admissions , student exchanges , and human resources in various sectors , including law and financial services .
Established in 1985 , National Matching Services , Inc . pioneered advanced matching software to place physicians into residency positions across the United States [ 12 ]. Over the past four decades , the products and services have expanded to encompass all stages of the recruitment process . At the heart of this system is the Roth-Peranson matching algorithm [ 13 ]. This algorithm aims to match applicants with their top-ranked programs while also taking into account the programs ’ ranking of the applicants , ensuring a mutually satisfying match [ 14 ].
One well-known example of an NMS is the entry-level labor market for new physicians in the United States , organized through a centralized clearinghouse [ 12 ]. After graduate applicants interview at various residency sites , they create and submit rank order lists ( ROLs ) that indicate their preferences for the positions they have interviewed for . In parallel , the residency programs submit their ROLs , listing the applicants they interviewed and the number of positions they wish to fill . The NMS then processes these ROLs using an algorithm to match applicants with residency programs [ 15 ]. This process is currently completed twice for “ The Match ” and the “ Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program .”
The use of an NMS has effectively improved a previously chaotic and disorganized process . The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service employs a multiphase matching method in Europe [ 16 ]. Based on this model , it was initially suggested that a three-phase system be implemented to address current issues with the Match [ 17 ]. This proposed system limits the number of applications that can be submitted initially , establishes a secondary application phase for those who need to apply more broadly , and adds a third phase for the Supplemental Offer and Acceptance Program [ 18 ]. The three-phase system could reduce the burden on applicants and programs , ensure a more efficient matching process , and increase the likelihood of stable matches [ 16 ].
An integrated CAS and NMS for the perfusion profession would create a centralized platform where applicants could submit a single application to multiple programs . This application could include information and supporting documentation such as official transcripts , personal statements , and letters of recommendation . The clearinghouse would also allow PEPs to transition seamlessly from applications to interview the rankings in a single system [ 19 ].
An NMS would streamline and simplify the interview and scheduling process by allowing applicants to self-schedule within a centralized platform . The NMS portal can be tailored to meet each PEP ’ s specific needs and accommodate various types of interviews , including one-on-one , group , site tours , or multiple rounds of interviews [ 20 ]. After interviews , each applicant will submit their confidential ROL , and the matching process will begin .
Conclusion
The rapid growth of PEPs underscores the urgent need for an efficient and equitable application process for prospective students . Implementing an NMS , in conjunction with CAS , holds significant promise for addressing the disparities between the increasing demand for qualified perfusionists and the limited availability of positions in PEPs . This innovative approach can help mitigate recruitment challenges and pave the way for a more promising future in perfusion education by streamlining the application process and ensuring a fair system for applicants and programs .
Funding The author received no funding to complete this research .
Conflicts of interest The author has no conflicts of interest to disclose .
Data availability statement
The data supporting this study ’ s findings are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request .
Author contribution statement
The author led the conceptualization and investigation , drafted the manuscript , and reviewed and edited the manuscript .
Ethics approval The author has no relevant ethical declarations .
References
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