Residency Leadership Lessons From the Epicenter of the COVID-19 Surge

Abstract

Emergency medicine residency program directors (PDs) in areas hit hardest by the initial U.S. COVID-19 pandemic surge faced novel and rapidly evolving organizational, educational, and resident wellness challenges. Despite variations in residency size, hospital setting, and patient population, PDs from eight residencies in “the epicenter” found uniformity in many of the lessons learned. Here we present those lessons and suggestions for high-yield preparation for running a residency during a surge. Of particular importance were frequent, transparent communication and stepwise staffing plans. Illness of residents and other staff occurred early and were substantially reduced as personal protective equipment protocols tightened. Wellness was compromised by anxiety and illness, with varying timelines. New, rich educational opportunities emerged. All programs declared ACGME pandemic status but remained able to maintain some educational offerings. Planning ahead for future surges can significantly reduce the real-time burden for residency leadership, which is particularly important as clinical demands on leadership may also increase with a surge.