Feb. 28, 2025, marks a special day in the health care calendar: Thank a Resident Day. This day is dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the tireless efforts of medical residents who provide exceptional care to patients across our health care system.
Did you know that over the past 101 years, 2,445 residents have trained at WellSpan York Hospital and WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital?
Medical residents are doctors in training. They’ve completed medical school and are now working in hospitals or clinics under the supervision of experienced physicians. Their responsibilities are vast and varied, ranging from diagnosing and treating patients to conducting research and participating in medical education.
Why We Should Thank Them
The dedication and commitment of medical residents are truly remarkable. They choose a path that is both challenging and rewarding, driven by a passion to help others. Here are a few reasons why we should take the time to thank them:
Their Commitment to Learning: Residents are constantly learning and improving their skills. They attend lectures, participate in rounds, and engage in continuous professional development to stay at the forefront of medical knowledge.
Their Compassion and Care: Residents maintain an elevated level of compassion and empathy to ensure that their patients receive the best possible care.
Their Future Impact: Many residents will go on to become leaders in their fields, contributing to medical advancements and shaping the future of health care.
Stacey Robert, MD
Program Director, WellSpan York Hospital Family Medicine Residency
Q:Why is the resident experience important?
A:
Residents are our future! A good experience allows them to flourish and grow professionally and personally. These are formidable years for them. Having good mentors, teachers and role models is where they build their foundation and learn the art and the skill of medicine. Also, with robust educational opportunities, a variety of clinical experiences and a supportive learning environment, they expand their knowledge and clinical judgment to provide excellent care now and in the future. When they feel supported, they simply perform and learn better.
Q:What advice can you give residents to have a fulfilling career?
A:
When you see your role as a privilege to help and care for others, you will get great joy from what you do and the role you play in others’ health. Treat your patients the way you would want your family to be cared for and always do the right thing – even when it’s the hard thing. Also, look for the ways that you can have an impact outside of the four walls of the office or the hospital – volunteer at a school, give a lecture to a community group about a health topic, serve at an underserved clinic or mission trip, speak to medical students or residents. This will help with seeing the bigger picture of what we can do, how we can influence communities and others and breaks up the day-to-day routine.
Q:What do you enjoy most about your role mentoring them?
A:
My favorite thing about mentoring residents is seeing the transformation that occurs over their time as a resident. They start out unsure, uneasy and scared and by the end, they are compassionate, competent and confident physicians who I would have care for my own family. Watching them grow and succeed as they pick up new skills, knowledge and purpose is very rewarding.
Thank you, residents, for all that you do!
Let’s take a moment to recognize and thank the medical residents who work to improve the lives of their patients. Their dedication, compassion and commitment to excellence are truly inspiring. By showing our appreciation, we not only acknowledge their hard work but also contribute to a more supportive and positive health care environment. A simple "thank you" can go a long way.
If you are a resident looking for a fulfilling career, consider us. Explore our open opportunities and benefits.