The Jefferson Radiation Oncology Residency program recognizes that holistic wellness is an important part of a sustainable career as a productive radiation oncologist. To this end, we have created the Residency Wellness Initiative. This has been spearheaded by former resident Ayesha Ali, MD, who wanted to create a smooth transition for our incoming trainees. The Wellness Initiative focuses on four areas: 1) professional, 2) physical, 3) psychological, and 4) social well-being.
We will have lectures throughout the year to ensure our residents are educated on the importance of decreasing stress, eating healthier meals, and getting sufficient rest. The SKMC Department for Integrative Medicine & Nutritional Sciences assists our department in designing the program. We are also planning a Wellness Day, when residents will be relieved of duties for a day to explore massage therapy, acupuncture techniques, and mindful meditation. We have a close-knit group of residents that often plan activities outside of work, to go to sporting events, out to dinner, and gatherings at each other’s homes.