At the University of Utah, we are committed to our residents' wellness. We are fortunate to have our institution as a committed partner. We continue to look at all variables that contribute to physician wellness starting with work environment and including social support, resiliency building, and culture. Examples of some of the initiatives we have in play include: 

Building Social Support

Before starting clinical rotations, the program arranges for all interns to spend two nights camping in Zion National Park as part of intern orientation. This is an amazing experience that allows trainees to connect with fellow colleagues and the Chief Medical Residents, all while enjoying the beauty and splendor of this unique national park. We have multiple residency-sponsored social events throughout the year that varies to appeal to all interests.

Work Environment

As a program, we aim to consistently evaluate and address organizational contributors to resident wellness. To accomplish this, we monitor work environments to identify areas for improvement and hold monthly feedback sessions with residents to discuss opportunities to improve program processes and systems. We listen to our residents and make thoughtful changes to our curriculum, schedules, and clinical rotations to maximize resident education and well-being. Examples of changes made as a result of resident feedback include: 

1. Removal of all 28 hours shifts program-wide
2. Reduced patient capacity for general medicine teams at Intermountain Medical Center and University of Utah Healthcare as well as the Shock Trauma ICU
3. Income raise
4. Program-wide schedule changes that increase both flexibility and opportunities available to all residents, including the transition to a 4+4 schedule for PGY-2 and PGY-3 Residents. Additionally, interns experience increased exposure to subspecialties.
5. Increased dedicated resident-as-teacher opportunities to our consult rotation
6. Increased outpatient didactic sessions for senior residents on ambulatory rotations