The Tulane Internal Medicine Residency program is deeply committed to resident wellness and the avoidance of burnout. We recognize the importance and value of providing the resources and avenues necessary to achieve the emotional and physical well-being of our residents. In addition, we spend time focusing on purpose through many of our activities, helping to re-center the reason we have chosen this profession as staying connected to our purpose can significantly impact our wellness. Below are wellness initiatives undertaken by the residency program and Tulane.
Tulane Residency Experience Discussion (RED) – Tulane RED is a committee led by residents and chiefs that facilitates monthly gathering of residents outside of the hospital to engage in open-ended discussion about their experiences based on pre-chosen topics. The purpose of this program is to create an open and safe space for reflection and understanding and to promote wellness within the Internal Medicine Residency Program by identifying important areas for growth and change.
Wellness Half Days – Each resident is allocated four protected half-day blocks of time per academic year for residents to take care of medical, mental health, or other personal needs.
Wellness Didactics – The program has regularly incorporated lectures into our didactics to promote wellness. Past topics have included sleep and narrative medicine.
Wellness Spaces – Within each hospital site, there are secured spaces for personal wellness. These include general meditation/wellness spaces, resident lounges, and access to hospital employee gyms.
Vacation – Residents receive five weeks of vacation per academic year, which is more than what is offered by many residency programs. This includes one two-week block each semester and an additional week off during the last weeks of December.
Mental Health Resources – Residents have access to three mental health visits paid through Tulane’s Employee Assistance Program. Residents also have access to virtual mental health appointments through Integrated Behavioral Health.
Annual Retreat – The program hosts a retreat for residents every year in the Spring. This is a time for reflection, bonding, and planning for the upcoming academic year.
Mardi Gras – PGY-3 residents are provided with two additional days of coverage to partake in festivities the week of Mardi Gras.
