Family and friends of our anesthesiology residents got a glimpse of the day-to-day life of a resident at the third annual Family Anesthesiology Day. Residency program director Tim Martin, M.D., MBA, and assistant program director Michael Fowler, M.D., MBA, led some introductory discussion with the help of a panel of current residents. Afterwards, family and friends were invited to participate in simulation scenarios led by Fowler, Laurie Davies, M.D., and Samsun Lampotang, Ph.D.
Research suggests that residents benefit when family and friends understand the work-related stress associated with medical training programs. However, it can be hard for residents to communicate about their work to non-medical loved ones. Family Anesthesiology Day was initiated to increase resident social support and combat burnout.
Abby Schirmer, M.D., CA-1 resident
"…having family and significant others understand an element of the stress and responsibility that weighs upon us on a daily basis can improve communication and relationships and lead to a better work/life balance.”
Tony Barrios, M.D., a CA-3 resident and one of this year’s chief residents, participated in the resident panel and brought his wife and two sons to the event. He said his sons loved the simulations and seeing what a day “at the office” was like for dad. His wife appreciated the discussion on the warning signs of burnout and substance abuse and the advice on what she should do if she sees the signs in the future. “I think it’s important for us as residents to have support not just at work but at home as well,” said Barrios. “I think this is essential to maintaining wellness and building a strong sense of community in our program.”
Abby Schirmer, M.D., a CA-1 resident, was also a part of the resident panel and thinks this event is very important and more specialties should consider doing something similar. She said her fiancé, who is in the field of aviation, was able to draw similarities between their day-to-day lives and will be able to better understand what she goes through. “A career in medicine is difficult,” Schirmer said, “however, having family and significant others understand an element of the stress and responsibility that weighs upon us on a daily basis can improve communication and relationships and lead to a better work/life balance.”
Learn more about our residency program.
