The chief executive of AtlantiCare has unveiled an ambitious six-year strategy to establish a medical school and develop a "medical city" at the AtlantiCare Mainland campus in Pomona, along with launching the region's inaugural cancer intitute. Michael Charlton, President and CEO of AtlantiCare, presented a visionary plan totaling $1 billion in investment during a recent event at Boardwalk Hall, emphasizing the necessity of innovation and boldness in their approach.

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AtlantiCare has more than 100 locations in Atlantic, Cape May, Burlington, Camden and Ocean counties and services a region of more than 1 million residents. It has been recognized with multiple awards including being one of the 17 recipients of the Malcolm Aldridge National Quality Award, the highest honor for performance excellent granted by the U.S. government.

Speaking before a crowd of nearly 300 invited guests in the Adrian Phillips Theater at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, Charlton talked about the four “strategic pillars” in Vision 2030, expanding its market share to become a $2 billion organization and announcing partnerships with the Cleveland Clinic Cancer Institute, the Drexel University College of Medicine, the Global Neurosciences Institute and Oracle Health.

Charlton initiated collaborations with Drexel and Stockton universities to introduce a medical education hub in Atlantic City, alongside plans to address essential needs within the community such as medical, behavioral, and nutritional services, as well as launching a homeownership program.

Joining Charlton in unveiling the "Vision 2030" plan were Charles Cairns, Drexel's Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs, and Joe Bertolini, President of Stockton University. Cairns highlighted the opportunity to extend services to an underserved demographic in Atlantic City, drawing parallels to Drexel's successful outreach efforts in Reading, Pennsylvania. Bertolini expressed Stockton's commitment to enhancing training for healthcare professionals, particularly in nursing and social work.

Charlton emphasized the collaborative relationship between AtlantiCare and Stockton University, citing existing partnerships in nursing and MBA programs. He underscored the significant job creation potential of Vision 2030, projecting a doubling of AtlantiCare's workforce to 11,000 to 13,000 employees.

AtlantiCare is already an award winning medical provider, ranking in the 100 Best nationwide for cardiac care and #1 in New Jersey for coronary intervention.

The expansion aims to increase market share by 5%, elevate care standards to a global level, and establish strategic partnerships with entities like the Cleveland Cancer Care Center and the Global Neuroscience Institute. Charlton, a native of Atlantic City, emphasized his personal dedication to the city's improvement and stressed the mission-driven nature of AtlantiCare's endeavors.

Backed by AtlantiCare's board of directors and robust financial support, Charlton anticipates the new facility's inauguration within 30 to 36 months. The company's objectives extend beyond healthcare, encompassing initiatives to combat food insecurity, homelessness, and enhance life expectancy.

AtlantiCare's Vision 2030 also includes initiatives to foster local talent through clinical career programs and provide comprehensive learning and development opportunities for team members.