There have been years past when the waitlist is NOT utilized at all. Conversely, there have also been years of heavy use. It really depends.
My honest assessment is that all medical schools I have talked to have received a record number of applications this year. Waitlist movement, in general, will be less on average than years past...there are, of course, exceptions. I would suggest strongly that you not rely upon waitlist movement at this point in time so that you may be pleasantly surprised if you receive the coveted call/letter of acceptance. I know that it is easy to say seeing as I have that acceptance letter in-hand, but keep in mind that I am currently on many interview waitlists, so I at least have some first-hand knowledge of what you are going through.
Best of luck, and try not to lose all of your hair yet... med school and residency will take care of that.
