Family Medicine

My family medicine core rotation is over. Time flew by so fast. I spent a total of 6 weeks in three different locations. Pros: I had a ton of hands on experience. Every office I worked at I had the opportunity to see patients on my own, collect a history and physical, present the case to the PA or MD, discuss my assessment and help create a plan. It was very fulfiling. The ER addition to this rotation was also great. I had a broad education with lots of opportunities to get involved. I inserted central lines, stitched up legs and scalps, flushed gunshot wounds, reviewed MRI/CT scans as well as Xrays, drew blood, started IVs, watched a chest tube insertion, performed CPR. These are just to name a few. Cons: my clinical experience was primarily guided by PA's, this is great from the point that they are patient with the students but can be a con when trying to discuss the most up to date information and treatment as well as a deep understanding of the basic sciences as they relate to the pathology of the patient. On a bright note I did take the shelf exam on Sunday and I was very pleased that it was not as difficult as I had anticipated. What is next? I started OB/GYN yesterday. So far so good....