Blog Post Focus
This blog post focuses on the benefits of conferences during residency. Conferences can be great experiences for residents. Conferences provide opportunities to improve CVs, to network, and to have some time away from residency. There are many great benefits of conferences for residents.
Benefits of Conferences for Residents
Conferences are great opportunities for residents. Benefits of conferences include chances to present research, get hands-on learning, talk with leaders in the field, bond with fellow residents, meet fellows from programs you are interested, possible employers, and more. Many programs have educational programs that supply funding for residents at conferences, particularly when they are presenting research or cases.
Personal Experiences with Conferences
As a resident I went to several conferences. These were fun, valuable experiences. My co-residents reported similar experiences. Fortunately, my program provided funding for conferences so long as something was presented at the conferences. The funding may not have covered all expenses associated with attending the conference, but it was better than nothing.
I gained experience presenting cases, met different physicians in the field, and had opportunities to bond with co-residents. Benefits of conferences for me included greater exposure to my medical field, some time away from work, and a chance to explore something new.
Some Considerations For Residents Thinking About Attending Conferences
Generally, I think going to conferences can be worth it for most residents. If you are pursuing fellowship you can add to your CV and meet leaders in your field. If you are not thinking of fellowships they can still be opportunities to meet future employers and get hands-on skills. For everyone, they can be a fun trip to a neat area. However, here as some considerations:
Program Funding?
First, does your program provide any funding to residents going to conferences? Conferences can get expensive really quickly. Even with reduced rates for hotel reservations, several days add up quickly in addition to travel costs and registration costs of the events.
If you residency does not provide funding this can get very expensive fast. If your residency does provide funding, look into details. Some programs may only provide funding for residents presenting work at conferences. Look into several conferences early and get cases ready for submission early. Some programs may cap the funding for any one conference. Also, generally any reimbursement from the program can be delayed – so don’t spend money you do not have!
How Many Days Can You Go To Conferences?
Second, determine how many days you can actually devote to conferences. Look into your professional board-certifying body for your specialty. How many days each year are you able to miss? For some specialties it is 30 days. These 30 days include any vacation days, personal days, sick days, and conference days – any days not involved with direct patient care as recorded by your program.
Even if you get approved to go to several conferences you need to make sure that you do not exceed the maximum allowed days without patient care that academic year or you may need to extend residency!
Learn What You Can
Third, learn what you can at the Conferences. Meet any professional requirements, such as presenting research. Go to any courses that may be useful and any networking events that may be useful to you. These are great opportunities to meet others, expand your CV, and learn skills you can’t learn elsewhere.
Have Fun
Fourth, have some fun with the conference. Spend time with family and friends if amenable to this conference. Bond with colleagues if you want to. These conferences tend to be in fun areas where people want to be. Meet your requirements and have fun too.
Conclusion—There are Many Benefits of Conferences, Look Into Conference Opportunities For You
Conferences are great opportunities for residents. Check to see if your program provides funding and any requirements and caps to that funding. Use it to experience the benefits of conferences for you. Also, have fun!
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