Creating and Implementing a Novel Wellness-Inspired Resident Educational RG (WIRE) Curriculum

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Plastic Surgery Training
• Resident Wellness Programs

Background:

• Physician burnout is a significant concern in medical training.
• Plastic surgery residents face unique stressors impacting personal and professional well-being.
• Existing curricula often lack dedicated wellness components.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and implementation of the Wellness-Inspired Resident Education (WIRE) curriculum.
• To provide a framework for establishing wellness educational programming in residency programs.
• To highlight the benefits of a resident-driven wellness initiative.

Main Methods:

• The WIRE curriculum integrates six formal educational panels/lectures into the annual didactic schedule.
• Informal events and a dedicated resident wellness retreat complement the formal sessions.
• The program is resident-driven, fostering engagement and ownership.

Main Results:

• The curriculum successfully promotes personal and professional wellness among residents.
• It enhances camaraderie within the resident cohort and the department.
• Opportunities for networking with leaders in plastic surgery are provided.

Conclusions:

• The WIRE curriculum offers a comprehensive and effective model for enhancing resident well-being.
• Successful implementation requires institutional support and resident involvement.
• This approach can be adapted to other surgical specialties and educational settings.