Premedical students and medical trainees may be understandably worried about working in healthcare while the new coronavirus rages. Uncertainty underlines not only the virus and COVID-19 but also the conditions new medical practitioners may face. You can prepare for this new normal, however, by being proactive early in your training. By employing the following strategies, you will find yourself empowered to practice medicine during a pandemic. During these times, most institutions and professions must rely on trust now more than ever. So, take the time to evaluate the overall picture and be confident that you’ll strike that LizzyM score calculator.
Trust Your Mentors
Strong medical training schools establish networks of support. The Duke Program, for example, emphasizes approachable, nurturing training. In such a system, teachers and trainers will look out for you by providing updated guidelines for how you will stay safe based on the latest science. Be open to this guidance, which can steer you down the safest path.
Talk With Other Physicians
Practicing doctors in various specialties are experiencing differing realities. Reach out to physicians in a wide range of fields, such as Rachel Tobin Yale, to gain the knowledge these different perspectives can bring. The words will not only increase your understanding of what it means to work under these difficult conditions but also should provide professional comfort.
Be Open to New Practices
When you first planned for a career in medicine you probably looked forward to establishing close contact with your patients. Moving forward, medicine may emphasize virtual office visits and other new models. Because you may need to approach practice in ways you had not imagined, your best chance for success will be to learn as much about these changes early in your education.
Manage Your Own Health
It is easier to get sick when you are run-down and stressed. Starting in school and thereafter, practice what you preach: Eat well, exercise faithfully, avoid smoking and excess drinking, and take time for yourself.
Be aware that what you learn today may be obsolete knowledge tomorrow. By creating a routine to deal with the changing viral landscape, you will increase your odds of negotiating it successfully.
