A few things that are very obvious to those working in healthcare have become obvious to us; one issue of great concern is the often talked about, looming physician shortage. As the cost of medical school has sky rocketed, the future of a career as an MD has become incredibly uncertain. Residents regularly lament the anywhere from $160K - $500K debt burden they begin their working life carrying.
Our Pathway to PA blog series has clarified how many people who, in earlier times, may have chosen to become a physician are finding other jobs that make them happier without all of the sacrifices, and yes, without the debt.
We don't have the answers, but we wanted to make a statement to acknowledge those who bravely embark on a career as a physician in these uncertain times. For that reason, this past weekend we launched our The Right Fit H.E.R.O. Award.
The Right Fit campaign highlights the personal sacrifices, long hours and educational commitment during a medical resident’s professional life. A Medelita embroidered lab coat and scrub set will be won by 100 residents. One H.E.R.O. winner, following a community peer vote of the top 10 and the final discretion of a judging panel, will take home a $25,000 honorarium to decrease medical debt. The Association of American Medical Colleges estimates this debt to be over $160,000 for each graduating medical student.
The 100 winners are to be featured on www.medelita.com/therightfit. Damon Kuehl, M.D. vice chair emergency medicine, assistant professor Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and Research Institute, frequently lectures and speaks nationally about ways to motivate residents.
We are asking for your help to spread the word about our H.E.R.O. Award, and to nominate deserving residents here.
