Fellow Wellness Night

The Pediatric Hematology/Oncology fellowship is a rigorous training program. Fellow morale and wellness have been low due to multiple challenges, such as a heavy clinical workload, and COVID-19. A baseline survey was administered to fellows to assess burnout. This survey also asked about preferences around connecting with co-fellows. More than half of fellows expressed burnout. All of them shared an interest in connecting with co-fellows. Problem statement: Fellow morale is down, and it is essential that changes be made to address fellow wellness. Goal: To improve fellow wellness through a monthly Fellow Wellness Night (FWN). Actions taken: The purpose of FWN is to provide fellows with scheduled time to debrief and connect with each other. Fellows participate in a pager-protected dinner with a wellness curriculum implemented in the 2nd half of the dinner. Summary of results: The two FWNs to date have been received positively by fellows. Some limitations include both fellow and facilitator availability, as well as securing a willing and qualified facilitator to guide curriculum. The frequency of dinners was decreased, and new facilitator identified. Survey results (administered after 5th FWN and 10th FWN) will assess initiative and evaluate future division funding.