During this unprecedented time, I am grateful to be called upon to support my colleagues in the midst of tremendous stress, anxiety, and uncertainty. Although the challenge we face in health care is tremendous, our resilience, professionalism, and commitment to our vocation — coupled with healthy boundaries, discernment, and sound infection control practices — will help us rise above this trial and end up stronger, and even more resilient on the other side. In fact, I am hopeful this pandemic will continue to expose how non-clinical administrators empowered as decision-makers in medicine threaten the foundations of our noble profession when they devalue our knowledge and expertise. It has never been more vital for physicians to lead and work effectively with hospital leadership with wisdom and courage.
In the middle of a global, once-in-a lifetime, life-threatening pandemic, some of these administrators have dared remove masks off the faces of doctors and nurses caring for people to “protect” a hospital’s image while risking people’s lives! If this isn’t a poignant symbol of how non-clinicians running healthcare can place all of us at risk, I don’t know what is!
To support and empower physicians and medical teams during this time, I’ve been asked to present two webinars. The first one is tonight (April 9, 2020) at 8 PM Eastern Time. On behalf of the Florida Academy of Family Physicians (FAFP), I will present ways to mitigate stress and stand strong during this pandemic while staying safe. I will provide context to explain why physicians are particularly vulnerable as this crisis sweeps through our communities and nation, and why it is vital for us to lead and take back medicine NOW. You may sign up HERE.
The following week, I will facilitate a conversation with physicians, medical students, and other medical professionals about managing stress in the times of COVID-19 on a webinar sponsored by a non-profit called FACTS. We will discuss strategies to enhance physician, medical student, and team wellness during this crisis and consider ways to stay safe and find meaning and joy in the midst of the pandemic. This video webinar will take place on Thursday, April 16 at 7 PM Eastern Time. You may register HERE.
Both webi
nars are provided free of charge. And, by the way, if you haven’t read it yet, here’s a link to my Pandemic Poem written to support and encourage you.
Together we are stronger. Stay connected with people who care about you, and remember to be good to yourself!
