Redefining the "Community" Surgeon: A Resident Perspective

Description

The presentation, led by Dr. Murray Wong, explores the concept of community orthopedics from a resident's perspective, noting the importance of collaboration with colleagues in Calgary. Dr. Wong discusses the various interpretations of community surgery, highlighting themes such as generalist versus subspecialist training, the emphasis on clinical care over research, and the variabilities present in both academic and community settings. He reflects on his own journey, recalling the influence of a community orthopedic surgeon during medical school and discussing the limited exposure to community practice throughout residency.



The talk reveals a divide among residents regarding career paths, with an even split between interests in academic and community roles. Factors influencing these decisions include the desire for research opportunities, lifestyle preferences, and local support systems. Dr. Wong emphasizes the perceived accessibility of community surgeons and the potential for a better work-life balance in community settings.



He mentions the pressures of academic training, noting how residents might unintentionally steer themselves towards academic roles. Despite the lack of direct exposure to community surgery, the residents expressed a strong interest in contributing to community practices, highlighting the need for a more intentional focus on community exposure early in their training. The presentation concludes with acknowledgments and a call for further efforts to integrate resident experiences with community surgery.

Specialties