Jarkon Pens Article for The DO

As seen in The DO, an editorial by Liat Jarkon, D.O., director of the Center for Behavioral Health, reminds the supervisors of physicians-in-training to practice compassion and emphasize teamwork. Each July, medical students transition to interns and recent medical school graduates begin their residencies, which can be a stressful period for both trainees and seasoned mentors. However, Jarkon reminds physicians that both groups are collectively experiencing the trials and tribulations of medical training together, a mindset that could lessen physician burnout and help produce more well-adjusted physicians.

“During ongoing life-and-death medical scenarios, sleep deprivation, and crises, we may become negligent and overlook these basic facts. When frustrated, overwhelmed, and under pressure, we can even regress into negative and hostile interactions with one another. However, during these intense moments, it is crucial to remain cognizant of the fact that we are training physicians to be empathic, kind, approachable, and professional with their patients. As such, it behooves us to model this behavior. We all function as role models. We should be teaching, mentoring, and encouraging professional growth with patience and respect, regardless of the situation,” she writes.