Skin, Bones, Hearts & Private Parts is at its core a leading provider of online CME and in-person CME conferences at destination locations. But we know there’s a lot more to being a physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner than earning CME, and that careers in the healthcare community need the same “care and feeding” as continuing education! To help, we talked with our CME conference speakers and attendees – a lot – on a wide range of topics, including tips and strategies for changing specialties, coping strategies for difficult days, building trust with patients, and advancing careers. This month, we asked a few of our CME speakers how they find opportunities across generational, experience, and personality differences. After all, working with medical providers with very different personalities and approaches is a common reality, whether you’re in residency or nearing retirement!
Continuing Education Means More than CME
Melissa Rodriguez, DMSC, PA-C, a clinically practicing physician assistant (PA) in obstetrics and gynecology, views differences in personality as an opportunity to learn different perspectives and gain insights into new ways of thinking. Recognizing that can open the door to a whole new way of learning, she says.
“Working with senior staff sheds light on the way things were done, the ever-changing process of medicine, and the struggles they overcame,” she points out. “With newer practitioners, there is still a lot to learn after schooling. It is important to help them understand that knowing the physiology and treatment options is only part of the story. We are experts in medicine but also in providing patient-centered care, aware of social determinants of health, and care for diverse patients with many language and cultural differences and education levels. The art of medicine is truly as important as your didactic curriculum, and that is learned with patient care and mentorship.”
Shadowing Healthcare Providers
Jennifer Carlquist-Reed, PA-C, ER, CAQ, a PA who works in ER and cardiology, always recommend shadowing a provider if possible, which allows you to build appreciation for seeing how someone else approaches the same problem. That, in turn, can build a relationship, launch a mentorship, teach differing strategies for working with patients, and may spark renewed passion for your area of study or expertise.
“Shadowing a doctor is a great way to find out if a career in medicine might be right for you,” the Association of American Colleges also advises pre-med students. “It will give you a better understanding of what a doctor’s typical day is like and give you good experience to talk about in your applications and interviews for medical school. It’s also a great way to gain familiarity with different specialties and medical environments.”
In-Person and Online CME for Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Physicians
Maybe you’re new to your career or just new to a different work environment and meeting colleagues with very different approaches or personalities. No matter your situation, open the door to learning from a wide range of health practitioners while earning continuing medical education credits at our CME conferences! Earn online CME credits or travel to a CME conference with like-minded nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and physicians; and ‘unplug’ while enjoying a new locale! Check out our upcoming Skin, Bones, Hearts & Private Parts 2023 CME Conferences and 2024 CME Conferences! At every event, the best of the medical community gathers to earn CME credits, network, and gain knowledge on dermatology, orthopedics, cardiology and emergency medicine, women’s health, pain management and pharmacology, diabetes, ER, and mental health. Online CME courses and Virtual CME are also available, giving you the option of earning CME credits at your convenience.