Resident Life
Life as a Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health Resident
Today, Hackensack Meridian Health is one of the largest, most comprehensive networks in New Jersey, combining academics and research with an extensive continuum of care. We are renowned for our world-class quality, respected for our expert physicians, and admired for our commitment to our communities. As a highly awarded hospital network, Hackensack Meridian Health has been awarded in the top 150 places to work in health care. K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital and Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health are ranked #1 in the state of New Jersey and in the top 20 in the Mid-Atlantic Region by U.S. News & World Report. The network was also ranked among the top 50 for pediatric nephrology.
Our team member page walks through the many amazing individual and family benefits (including child care) of being a part of the Hackensack Meridian Health family.
Conveniently located near many major highways and public transportation options, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital of the Jersey Shore University Medical Center is located in central New Jersey, well-known for its many beaches, and the highly populated cities of Red Bank and Asbury Park. The hospital’s campus location is a 5-minute drive to a sprawling shoreline, and near to many popular attractions.
Jersey Shore University Medical Center is located in Monmouth County, which has consistently top-rated school systems, expansive parks, lakes, outdoor activities, shopping malls, and of course easy access to the jersey shore. A short drive to Manhattan, Philadelphia and the Poconos, being a resident at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital provides you the opportunity to easily visit many exceptional destinations.
From the Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, NJ to the well-known PNC Bank Art Center in Holmdel, NJ, there are endless options for experiencing local cultural activities, concerts, theater, nightlife and cuisine.
Our Campus
K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center houses state-of-the-art facilities giving residents access to the tools and resources they need to achieve their educational and professional goals.
- 10 residents per year
- On-site fully renovated Ronald McDonald Room
- 45-bed inpatient unit
- Nationally ranked leader in Pediatric Cancer, Pediatric Nephrology, Pediatric Neurology & Neurosurgery, Pediatric Urology by U.S. News & World Report 2023-2024
- 10-bed Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
- 35-bed Level III – Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
- 10-12 bed dedicated Pediatric Emergency Department, open 24/7 –
- Pediatric Sedation Service led by the Critical Care team
- Pediatric Subspecialist – home to outpatient offices of our pediatric specialists in Neurology, Development, Hematology/Oncology, Pulmonology, Endocrinology, Infectious Disease and Gastroenterology
- Full team of Certified Child Life Specialists
Research
The Pediatric Department is especially proud of our robust resident scholarly curriculum resulting in multiple awards during the annual Hackensack Meridian research day and abstracts presented at National meetings.
All pediatric residents are expected to complete a Quality Improvement (QI) project during their 3 years of residency. QI Project ideas and mentors are assigned August of PGY-1 year with expected report out during August of PGY-2 year. Residents have the option of pursuing research during their time at JSUMC. The “Distinction in Research” curriculum focuses on educating residents on the basics of research while assisting in the completion of their projects. Our residents have had great success in their QI and research abstracts accepted at National meetings. A time-line for QI and research expectations and completion are provided during intern orientation.
Center for Simulation and Experiential Learning
With a vision to cultivate an organizational environment that is dedicated to interdisciplinary, professional, patient-centered education, HOPE Tower features a high-tech simulation laboratory.
In the 6,500+ square foot, state-of-the-art innovative simulation laboratory, team learning is fostered through experiential and simulation-based technique with an emphasis on patient safety, quality, innovation and patient interaction.
Residents and fellows gain training for various high-risk scenarios, allowing for real-time exposure to high acuity incidents in a controlled environment. The integration of simulation-based and “real-life” experiential learning into interdisciplinary education programs builds upon Hackensack Meridian Health’s continued commitment to leadership in health care education.
Wellness
Each month the program sponsors a wellness activity during our Thursday didactic lectures. These have included tie-dying, mocktails, and trips to get ice cream from our favorite spot across the street from the hospital! The program also has created a “Code Lavender” team that consists of several senior residents that volunteer to be designated to support their fellow residents during difficult times.
Retreats
Each class receives one day off from clinical duties to participate in their annual retreat. This day is designed to allow all residents to bond as a class. The days consist of an educational activity and then the class votes on a social event. In the past, days have included beach trips, axe throwing, painting and trips to local zoos.
Off Campus Activities
Our residents like to hang out with each other outside of work! In the past, classes have created monthly family dinners. The residents also get together during the last week of each block to celebrate the completion of another rotation. The program has created a social chair position that helps organize all activities for the residents.
