Objective: To aid residents and faculty in coping with the pressures of medical life in an academic medical center; stimulate discussion and deeper understanding of physician “burnout,” by using experiential education techniques to enhance dialogue.
Rationale: The topic of “resilience” has surfaced in multiple educational forums including GME committee meetings, resident advisor one-on-ones, and physician leadership meetings. The frequency and complexity of the concerns underscored the need to provide coping mechanisms to ensure a safe and thriving learning environment.
Description: A group of physician leaders participated in an off-site retreat designed to: 1) provide time for reflection on personal choices and career paths, 2) examine “resiliency” as a concept, and 3) create a vision for a healthier work environment. The retreat was conducted by a local leadership facilitator and performing arts director and incorporated story-telling, readings, team challenges, personal reflection and discussion.
Results: Retreat participants left the retreat with individual action plans and opted to reconvene as a cohort on a periodic basis to support each other and learn from their ongoing experiences. In addition to the retreat, a six hour Physician Well-being Symposium will be held in June 2012 for residents and faculty. The symposium will be coupled with a commissioned play about physician well-being, that explores the impact of five physicians' choices on career, family, dreams and personal well-being. Initial readings of the play have demonstrated its ability to raise issues and promote discussion.
Summary: Experiential education techniques can be an effective method to stimulate discussion about physician wellness.