Our residents and faculty have developed a wellness curriculum to face the unique challenges involved in emergency medicine training. We have aimed to substantiate wellness by incorporating it into regular and dedicated conference time. Our wellness activities focus on service, resiliency, and career development, and will continue to grow with creative ideas to support and empower residents.
In August of 2018, we had our first service day at Jewish Vocational Services where we assembled furniture for incoming refugee families. Our second, in May 2019, was at The Kansas City Assessment and Triage Center, a local mental health crisis center. We held conference there, revamping their courtyard with flowers, vegetables and picnic tables. While giving back to our community we reflected on the social adversity of our patients and became familiar with a disposition resource available to us in the ER.
Residents and faculty participated in various extra-curricular activities throughout the year including trivia and outings with furry friends. Our running enthusiasts also successfully completed their 3rd annual “Brew to Brew”, a 44-mile relay between Kansas City and Lawrence, KS. This year we had nice weather, no delays, and some did enjoy a brew or two at the end of the course.
Throughout the year, we host wellness days that offer guest speakers, field trips, book clubs, career information, and financial education; all ideas from residents wanting to better our program. The Wellness Committee manages department awards, shout-outs, “Saves of the Month” and miscellaneous gifts in efforts to recognize those who go above and beyond. Ultimately, we aim to sustain a positive, open environment for all residents to feel welcome and fulfilled.
Wellness Curriculum
- Intern Welcome Week
- Service Days (spring and summer)
- Career Workshop
- Resiliency Day
- Post In-Training Exam Festivity
- Book Club
- Miscellaneous outings, consultant mixers, gift giving, awards