Benefits of MedRAP/CPR During Pandemics
During challenging times, it is important for graduate medical education to share best practices and develop operational systems, so that the training of future clinicians is not disrupted when the next pandemic arrives.
Personal Interaction
MedRAP/CPR can be useful and enhance learning during pandemics when social distancing is required. In the initial period of the COVID-19 pandemic, the gratification of personal interaction was compromised, and widespread use of on-line learning, masks and social distancing may continue in the future. The program’s small groups (10-15 people) make social distancing easier, and supportive communities are reported to foster the well-being of clinicians.
Changes in Medical Education
Many changes in medical education are inevitable as a result of such crises, making it more important than ever to provide a safe environment for clinicians to share honest feedback about their experiences and challenges.
Empowerment of Clinicians
The empowerment of clinicians is associated with well-being. Clinicians feel more empowered when they can report the difficulties they encounter in their work and training environment, and are involved in finding solutions and optimizing their learning experience.
Mental Health
Since issues of mental health and suicide have grown as a result of the recent crisis, the program’s mechanism for monitoring individual clinicians and assisting them when they encounter both personal and professional difficulties is important.
Informal Training
Informal training usually occurs on clinical wards, where trainees have frequent opportunities to observe senior clinicians, treat patients, and interact with their families and the entire healthcare team. The program’s method of formalizing this informal training outside of the clinical wards will be especially advantageous if on-line training returns, and clinicians’ interactions on the wards are more limited.