Medical residents often lack sufficient access to healthcare despite working in a hospital, according to an article in the July issue of the Journal of the Association of American Colleges.
Authors reviewed literature and found 40 to 50 percent of postgraduate medical trainees do not have access to healthcare services. While many trainees may be able to consult with colleagues and self-diagnose for some health issues, the authors found nearly half — between 37 and 49 percent — report not having a primary care physician at all.
This represents an obstacle to addressing some of the unique healthcare needs of residents, who face heavy workloads, emotional stress, sleep deprivation and mountains of learning on the job. Residents often put their own wellness second to their work and patients. Unfortunately, leaving these stressors unchecked can lead to burnout, depression and even suicide in some cases.
However, there may be a solution to improve trainee wellness. The authors suggest applying the patient-centered medical home model to resident training programs. Through this model, residents would have access to a care coordinator who would help them schedule appointments, assist with changes to work schedules and ensure conflicts of interest are avoided, in addition to other services.
Read the article here.
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