To a brave intern:
It must have hurt to share your trauma. You didn’t plan to be bullied. You didn’t expect a patient to speak to you like that or touch you that way. You didn’t think when you told your attending, he’d respond with silence and shrugged shoulders.
You said other residents were bullied too, especially women. Your peers were supportive and kind, but our program’s values need to extend beyond our residency.
Sam Magier’s Grand Rounds inspired you to tell your story. Just as we report adverse events to promote patient safety, we need to report mistreatment to promote safety for learners.
Your courage inspires me. If I know one thing about this residency and medical center, it’s that we’re working to get better. We won’t stop until everyone is treated with respect.
You’re one brave intern among many in a program that upholds courage and kindness. I’m reassured that you spoke to your Chiefs and APD and that you are getting the support you need. The residency, department, and GME office are already working to address these issues at the highest level. You make me hope that the way we honor and respect each other in this residency will soon become the norm.
Wishing you a Happy Easter, filled with joy, sunshine, and hope for better tomorrows.
Mark
P.S. In this residency we are committed to kindness, safety, and respect. If you’ve been the target of bullying and harassment, please tell your Chiefs, APD, MAC, Department leadership, GME leadership, or me. We will listen and provide resources to help. If you’d prefer to share concerns anonymously, you can call the GME hotline at 203-688-2277.
MDS