How often do residents switch between departments?
Typically, our residents switch between the two parent departments every three months. Although there are advantages and disadvantages to longer periods between these switches, we feel the 3-month period keeps residents well-connected to the two parent departments. The first switch is always a bit tough, no matter when it occurs, so the program administration tries to provide additional support at this time. As residents progress in their training, these switches become more and more routine. It’s important to remember that the division between pediatrics and internal medicine is artificial. Eventually, as a Med-Peds practitioner, you will “switch” from one moment to the next and the division between the two will disappear. You see this in your continuity sessions at Lifetime Medical Associates where you will care for patients of all ages in the same day, often seeing whole families.
