We are deeply committed to enhancing resident well-being through impactful initiatives and a culture of compassion. The new academic year’s commitment to resident wellness kicked off with the addition of two new events during orientation:  “Picnic with the Pops” including an outdoor live symphony orchestra accompanied by a Beatles tribute band, and an “Intern Welcome Family Picnic.” Both events were well-attended by our leadership, faculty, and residents’ families, providing an opportunity for residents to get to know the team outside the workplace. 

In July, we hosted the first in a series on “Resilience in the Clinical Setting” which will be followed by quarterly fireside chats.  In August, two weekend retreats at Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio were coordinated in collaboration with the Chief of Wellness and Diversity; half the residents attended each weekend based on their weekend preference.  They enjoyed a two-night retreat complete with teambuilding, meals, hiking, and time to recharge at the cabin’s private pool and hot tub.

New initiatives over the past academic year included a six-week pottery class, introductory painting & knitting, cookie decorating, concerts on the plaza, a pool party, certified therapy dog visits, and a boating day.  Based on feedback and participation, we anticipate we will offer those or similar options again alongside our annual events and offerings. 

We celebrate and recognize Black History Month, Doctor’s Day, Women Physician’s Day, and Thank a Resident Day annually, and we celebrate resident birthdays monthly.  In addition, our residents and their families enjoy a catered meal together in celebration of Thanksgiving. 

“Surgeons for Service," the community outreach component of our well-being program fosters a sense of social responsibility and connection through volunteering.  This spring, we served at the foodbank and spent the morning packing boxes for families in need. Other outreach projects this year included collections of coats, school supplies, and toys for our local underserved community, and holiday treats for pediatric patients. Mamm & Glam, a mammogram and spa event in its 11^th season is hosted by our Program Administrator for at-risk and underserved women. In addition, a free hernia screening is hosted annually for the underserved.

We are currently in the process of working with an architectural firm to redesign the largest resident call room to include designated nutrition, wellness, rest, and workspaces, and as part of the renovation, new computers and furniture are being ordered. 

Our Sim Lab underwent a recent makeover, and we were able to expand to include a second refrigerator, additional healthy and culturally diverse snack options, extra storage, a recycling program, and a comfort/care station that includes over-the-counter cold and pain medications, first aid, and feminine hygiene items. 

Our Program provides a meal at each weekly conference, including a special menu on the last Wednesday of each month as a focus on wellness and resident birthdays.  In addition to meal allowances and a large selection of free food and drinks in the Sim Lab, we stock all of our call rooms weekly with snacks and drinks. 

In addition to our Program’s offerings and commitment, our GME hosts healthy policy forums, provide resident wellness labs, and gym membership including parking permits. Two new childcare centers were opened this year at locations that are convenient to the hospitals which ease work-life balance challenges. 

Well-being comes in all forms, and at Marshall General Surgery, we strive to incorporate as many innovative and effective aspects as we can!