Banner Health announced on March 24 that it will welcome 231 graduating medical students into its residency programs across Arizona this summer.
The annual Match Day ceremonies, held last Friday, revealed where fourth-year medical students nationwide will begin their specialty training. The event marks a significant step in addressing the state’s need for more physicians and supports Banner Health’s ongoing efforts to expand its graduate medical education programs.
A total of 59 students from the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine – Phoenix and College of Medicine – Tucson will be placed at Banner sites throughout the state. Of all incoming residents, 195 are set to train at Banner – University Medical Center Tucson, while another 136 will be distributed among other Banner facilities: 88 at Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, 26 at Banner Desert Medical Center in Mesa, 20 at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center in Sun City West, and two at Banner Payson Medical Center. The incoming class represents graduates from 28 different medical schools.
Stephanie Briney, DO, associate dean of student affairs at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, addressed attendees during the celebration by saying: “We’ve seen you in action; we’ve worked with you at the bedside and in the clinic; volunteered alongside you; and been inspired by how you’ve led and taught the classes behind you. Without a doubt, every student in the Class of 2026 will make excellent future physicians.”
In partnership with the University of Arizona since last year, Banner Health has committed to creating an additional 229 residency positions statewide. According to the official website, this expansion is part of a broader initiative as one of the largest nonprofit health systems nationally. The organization operates facilities not only across Arizona but also extends its reach into California, Colorado, Nebraska, Nevada, and Wyoming. According to its official website, Banner Health provides substantial community benefits through its nonprofit activities and aims to simplify health care to improve quality of life. The system functions as a nonprofit organization with operations spanning several states.
The announcement reflects both local needs for physician training opportunities and national trends toward expanding graduate medical education within large health systems.
