The residency and fellowship years are somewhat similar to pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. Each responsibility, each new experience fills in another piece and contributes to the whole - the physician and the person you hope to become. Traditionally, the formal education of a physician has emphasized only those pieces specifically related to the science of medicine. It overlooked other essential life experiences and skills.

Personal and Professional Development - An Enrichment Series is a three-year sequence of programs focusing on these other areas. It wa developed in response to a survey (completed in 1998 by over one hundred residents, fellows and their significant others) and targets fields of knowledge that your peers indicated would benefit you.The program was spearheaded by Mark McPhee, M.D. and developed by Ellie Idstrom, Ph.D., Clinical Assistant Professor in the School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City, in cooperation with the Department of Medical Education at Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City.

Some of the topics, such as "Stress Management", "Understanding Yourself Through Personality Profiles and Temperament Types" will lean towards the personal. Other topics such as "Education debt Management", "Making the Transition from Residency into Practice" as well as "Contracting for Employment" and Navigating Your Way Through the Legal System' will more directly focus on professional aspects of your life. Still others, such as "Medicine and Art" will provide enjoyment and camaraderie with your peers. Together, these programs compose a comprehensive education, helping you meet multiple commitments while fulfilling the many roles typically expected of you.

And because your relationships with others is one of the most important life experiences, the series is offered not only to you, but to your significant other as well. The benefits of attendance are multidimensional and include the opportunity to meet with your colleagues across specialties over dinner while learning essential information that has been specifically designed for you. (your frequency of attendance will be considered by your Program Directors in your performance evaluation). Complimentary child care is provided by Saint Luke's Hospital Child Care Center personnel. The series will provide seven to eight programs per year, one per month (except December) from September through May. we hope to see you at any or all of them. There is NO COST to you, but advance reservations are essential.

Please note: These programs are provided exclusively for physicians in residency training at Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City. For more information contact the Department of Medical Education at
816-932-2237.