Internal Medicine Residency Program

In the current healthcare environment, residents are at increased risk for burnout and depression. Physician burnout can create significant problems for the physician, their family, the hospital system and patients. The Valley Health System (VHS) Internal Medicine Residency Program recognizes a fundamental duty and responsibility to ensure the health and well-being of its residents. It is imperative to train residents on wellness and resilience early in their careers and ensure they have the tools necessary to succeed.

Residents will not only participate in didactics or lectures that place an emphasis on wellness, but may also be involved in resident social events. The VHS Internal Medicine Residency Program offers various social events to foster resident wellness and interaction with other members in their program, or residents from the consortium. Activities include residents, faculty, and at times, residents' families. Events will be planned by peer-selected resident representatives on the program Wellness Committee.

Residents meet with their faculty advisors twice per year to assess their wellbeing and ensure their needs are being met. Furthermore, as VHS employees, residents have access to confidential, affordable mental health counseling and treatment, including access to urgent and emergency care 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the company Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Those residents who voluntarily seek professional assistance will not jeopardize their status as a resident.