3. INTERN PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND WELLNESS WEEK: BUILDING LIFE-LONG SKILLS FOR WORK-LIFE INTEGRATION

Abstract

Introduction The requirements for successful completion of Pediatric Residency is clear, but until recently there was very little guidance regarding physician work-life integration. Given the growing awareness of physician burnout and the increased physician suicide rate compared to the general public (American Journal of Psychiatry.2004. 161(12), 2295-2302), our program deemed it necessary to implement a curriculum focused on wellness early in medical training. Methods Our program implemented a Professional Development and Wellness Week (7 days) during intern year. During this week, interns are required to meet with their adviser, shadow an inpatient nurse, and create a “chalk talk”. Otherwise, they are provided a menu of personal and professional activity suggestions. Interns complete a survey at the end of their week documenting the completed activities. Outcomes Thus far, 13 of 24 (54%) Pediatric residents have completed their PDW week and post-completion survey. The most commonly selected activities included: completing outstanding MedHub evaluations (100%), engaging in a favorite hobby (100%), attending a health-related appointment (92%), and organizing email/EMR (76%). Results The most common optional activities that residents completed during protected personal development time include administrative tasks (email and evaluations) and healthcare-related activities. Conclusions When provided unstructured time for personal development, interns may prioritize completing outstanding administrative tasks and health-related appointments. This suggests that a longitudinal administrative “half-day” experience may be beneficial. Future directions also include collecting data related to administrative tasks and burnout.