Tessa Quinn
Residency, or postgraduate training, is a stage of graduate medical education. The term residency originated from the historical practice where newly graduated doctors would reside at the dormitories of the hospital in which they received training. While residents no longer live at the hospital, the location of their residence is an important decision for new interns and residents to make. Factors such as proximity to the hospital, cost, parking options, and commuting needs of other family members must be considered.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Residency | A stage of graduate medical education |
| Resident | A qualified physician, veterinarian, dentist, podiatrist, optometrist, pharmacist, or medical laboratory scientist |
| Residency Origin | The term originated from the historical practice where newly graduated doctors would reside in the hospital |
| Residency Duration | 2 to 7 years |
| Residency Choice | Residents choose the teaching hospital based on factors like medical specialties, reputation, and credentials |
| Living Options | Residents may opt for renting an apartment, buying a house, or living in the hospital |
| Commute Considerations | Proximity to the hospital, morning routine, commute time, parking options, family needs, and cost of living |
| Mental Health | It is important for residents to maintain a work-life balance and prioritize their mental health by staying away from the hospital when not on shift |
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What You'll Learn
- Residents historically lived in hospitals
- Living closer to the hospital is time-effective
- Residents can stay in call rooms to save money
- Residents should consider their morning routine and commuting needs
- Residents can choose their teaching hospital based on factors like reputation and specialties offered
Residents historically lived in hospitals
The history of hospitals dates back to ancient times, with precursors in Asclepian temples in ancient Greece and military hospitals in ancient Rome. The concept of hospitals evolved from charitable guesthouses to centres of scientific excellence, influenced by various social and cultural factors. Religion and medicine were closely linked in ancient cultures, with temples dedicated to the healer-god Asclepius serving as centres of medical advice, prognosis, and healing.
In the twentieth century, the term "resident" was coined to refer to physicians in training who often physically lived in the hospital. While residents no longer reside full-time in hospitals, the demanding schedules and heavy workloads associated with residencies have persisted. During the COVID-19 pandemic, residents on the front lines faced unprecedented challenges, including inadequate protective gear and uncertain access to testing and vaccination.
Historically, residents lived in hospitals due to the professionalization of healthcare practices and the development of a competitive market for medical services. Nursing played a crucial role in this transition, as described by historian Charles Rosenberg. The shift towards hospital-based care was influenced by societal industrialization, the complexity of medical practices, and the notion that families and communities were less able to provide care for their own.
The evolution of hospitals as institutions and the professionalization of nursing have influenced each other significantly. The quality of the hospital experience and the nature of hospitals have had profound effects on the nursing profession, as the majority of nurses now practice in hospital settings. The future of hospitals and nursing depends on the decisions made regarding healthcare provision and accessibility.
While residents historically lived in hospitals, it is important to note that this is no longer the norm. In a Reddit discussion, residents shared their concerns about the financial burden of renting an apartment while working long hours during residency. However, they also acknowledged the importance of maintaining mental health by having a living space away from the hospital when not on shift.
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Living closer to the hospital is time-effective
Living closer to the hospital during residency is a matter of personal preference, but it can be time-effective. Here are some reasons why living closer to the hospital during residency can be beneficial and time-saving:
Shorter Commute
A shorter commute means more time for yourself and your well-being. A longer commute can be exhausting, especially when you have to be at the hospital in the early hours of the morning or after a long day. Living closer to the hospital can reduce travel time, allowing residents to sleep in a little longer or get home earlier. This can also help residents avoid the stress of dealing with traffic and the hassle of finding and paying for parking.
Cost Savings
Living closer to the hospital can result in cost savings, especially for those without a car. Residents can save money on gas, maintenance, and the risk of accidents associated with driving. Additionally, some residents may be able to walk to the hospital, further reducing transportation costs.
Convenience and Flexibility
Proximity to the hospital offers convenience and flexibility. Residents can easily return home during breaks or lunch hours. They can also change clothes, grab something from home, or even invite co-residents over. Living closer also means residents can take advantage of hospital amenities, such as free food on weekends.
Mental Health and Well-being
A shorter commute can positively impact mental health and overall well-being. The reduced travel time means less time spent stressed in traffic or on public transportation. Additionally, living closer to the hospital can provide a sense of community, as residents often live in the same area or complex. This sense of belonging and support from peers can be beneficial during a challenging residency.
Personal Preferences and Trade-offs
While living closer to the hospital has its advantages, it is essential to consider personal preferences and trade-offs. Some residents may prioritize living in a nicer neighbourhood, a safer area, or a location with better schools for their children. Others may want to put some distance between their home and the hospital to maintain a work-life balance and avoid feeling like they are always in the "hospital bubble." Ultimately, the decision depends on the resident's priorities, morning routine, and how much commute time they are willing to tolerate.
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Residents can stay in call rooms to save money
Residents working 80-100 hour weeks often wonder if they can stay at the hospital to save money on rent. Some residents have resorted to hiding in call rooms, although this is not recommended for mental health. It is important to have a space away from the hospital when you are not on shift.
However, some residents have no other option but to stay in call rooms. Residents can try to make the best of this situation by making the call room feel like home. Some residents bring fluffy quilts and blankets from home to adorn their beds, while others tape sheets with medical algorithms and doodles of flowers to the walls.
If you have the option to choose a call room, it is best to pick the quietest one possible. Some call rooms are located near the ICU, which can be noisy. It is also a good idea to look for a room with a window so you can see the sunrise. If you are allowed to leave small items in the room, consider bringing a lamp or other soft light sources to help you wind down.
While some residency programs view the call room as a place for socialization or individualized reading, others see it as a brief resting post on a marathon call. Regardless, it is important to prioritize sleep and try to get comfortable to get some rest when you can.
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Residents should consider their morning routine and commuting needs
Living closer to the hospital can save time on commuting, which can be beneficial for residents with a protracted morning routine or those seeking to limit the time spent travelling to and from work. A shorter commute can also be advantageous for residents who are required to be at the hospital during the early hours of the morning or those with demanding schedules. Additionally, residents driving to the hospital should consider the impact of tiredness, especially when commuting first thing in the morning or after a long day. Resident call rooms can be a valuable alternative to driving after a tiring shift.
However, it is important to note that living closer to the hospital may come with a higher cost of living. For residents with financial considerations, such as repaying medical school loans, this may be a crucial factor. In such cases, they may opt for cheaper accommodation further away from the hospital, weighing the pros and cons of a longer commute.
When deciding on a living arrangement, residents should reflect on their personal preferences and other life factors. For instance, residents with children may prioritise living in an area with preferred schooling options or safer neighbourhoods. Additionally, residents should consider their desired amenities, such as modern facilities, proximity to stores and restaurants, or parking options if driving is a necessity.
Overall, by thoughtfully considering their morning routine and commuting needs, residents can make informed decisions about their living arrangements during residency, balancing factors such as proximity to the hospital, cost, personal preferences, and well-being.
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Residents can choose their teaching hospital based on factors like reputation and specialties offered
Residency refers to a stage of graduate medical education in which a qualified physician, veterinarian, dentist, or other medical professional practices medicine or surgery under the supervision of a senior clinician in their chosen specialty. The term "residency" originates from the 19th century when resident physicians resided at the dormitories of the hospital where they received training. While residents today typically live outside the hospital, often renting apartments or houses, the choice of accommodation depends on various factors, such as family situation, commute time, and neighbourhood preferences.
When it comes to choosing a teaching hospital for residency, several factors come into play. Firstly, residents can consider the reputation and specialties offered by the hospital. Teaching hospitals are known for their comprehensive approach to healthcare, offering a wide range of specialty services, including emergency, hospital, preventive, and primary care. They are also renowned for their ability to treat rare diseases and severely ill patients, utilizing the latest technology and research. University Health, for example, offers unique care in the region, with board-certified doctors in all major specialties providing coordinated care.
Another factor that attracts residents to specific teaching hospitals is the opportunity to learn from and work with renowned specialists in their field. Teaching hospitals are often affiliated with medical schools and are at the forefront of medical research and innovation. They are involved in outcomes-based research and the development of new technologies, treatments, and techniques. Residents can benefit from these advancements by participating in clinical trials and gaining access to the latest treatments before they become widely available.
Additionally, residents may consider the hospital's teaching status and the quality of care provided. Major teaching hospitals are typically defined by their affiliation with medical organizations, the ratio of interns and residents to beds, or their designation as flagship hospitals. Teaching hospitals may also be distinguished by the presence of residency programs and their association with medical schools. The quality of care in teaching hospitals is often evaluated through clinical data, medical records, and discharge abstracts, which can provide valuable insights into patient outcomes and the level of specialization offered.
Lastly, residents may take into account the location and convenience of the teaching hospital. As seen in the example of University Health, residents can benefit from specialty care that is conveniently located, offering options like same-day walk-in and telemedicine services. The proximity of the hospital to one's accommodation or other points of interest can also play a role in the decision-making process.
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Frequently asked questions
Residency comes from the historical practice where newly graduated doctors would reside at the hospital. However, this is no longer the case, and residents are advised to live outside the hospital for their mental health.
Residents can choose to rent an apartment or buy a house. Some residents live close to the hospital, possibly within walking distance, while others prefer to live further away.
Living close to the hospital can be more time-effective and convenient, especially for residents with a protracted morning routine or those who work early morning shifts.
Residents may choose to live further away from the hospital due to factors such as family considerations, cost of living, and personal preferences for space, modern amenities, or proximity to stores and restaurants.
Some residents may choose to stay in resident call rooms at the hospital after a long day or 24-hour call instead of attempting a long drive home.
