Life beyond the hospital
Residency is challenging, but it should also include connection, support, celebration and time to build a meaningful life outside the hospital.
At Carolinas Medical Center, residents are supported professionally and personally through program leadership, Graduate Medical Education, resident committees, wellness resources and a strong sense of community.
Time together outside work
Residents have frequent opportunities to relax, explore Charlotte and celebrate milestones with classmates, faculty and families.
The Social Committee, composed of residents and faculty, plans events throughout Charlotte during the year.
Every resident is assigned to a family during Intern Orientation, with two members from each residency class.
Throughout the year, families compete in friendly competitions, earn points and meet for activities outside the hospital while exploring Charlotte together.
Residents receive clinical coverage to attend the annual Holiday Ball and Graduation.
The program also sponsors a pediatrics-only graduation for residents and families, a Match Day lunch and celebration for newly matched interns, and fellowship match celebrations at a local restaurant or brewery.
Intentional support
Wellness is built into the program through scheduled activities, committee work, accessible leadership and confidential support resources.
Past resident wellness activities have included quarterly class dinners at the program director’s house, pumpkin painting, massages during noon conference, Zoom happy hours, monthly wellness time during academic half-day and Zoom trivia.
The Wellness Committee meets monthly to discuss provider wellness within the program and hospital system.
The group develops wellness ideas and shares activities taking place across Atrium Health campuses. Residents may join the committee at any point.
“One of the reasons I loved this program so much was its emphasis on wellness and getting out to be active in Charlotte! One of my co-interns has started a running group, we play ultimate frisbee and beach volleyball when possible, and there’s a strong emphasis on mental health.”
Practical support throughout training
The program combines social connection, protected time and confidential support to help residents manage the demands of training.
Everyday benefits
Practical amenities help make daily life at the hospital more convenient and comfortable.
