Gaining an inside look at the realities of medical training, this episode features a conversation with Layne Keating, a chief medical resident at the University of Chicago. Layne shares her experiences navigating the transition from medical school at the Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University to residency, highlighting the importance of being given autonomy and the ability to make real clinical decisions.

She explains how this hands-on responsibility, even with the support of her team, has been critical for developing the confidence and problem-solving skills needed to be an effective physician. Layne contrasts this with concerns that overprotecting trainees from having to make tough choices during their education can make the leap to independent practice much more difficult.

The conversation also touches on the use of letters of recommendation in the residency application process. Layne and Dr. Adam Cifu discuss how more holistic, thoughtful approaches may be needed to evaluate the suitability of medical trainees.

This transparent discussion provides a unique perspective on the highs and lows of the clinical training journey, as well as insights into improving medical education to better prepare the next generation of physicians.

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