Someone to Lean On

Elizabeth Hall, MD FAAEM
YPS President

The AAEM Scientific Assembly was once again a huge success. Of course, the warm weather, beautiful sunsets and wonderful environment of the Hotel Del Coronado didn't hurt. Looking at the filled seats during the lectures while the ocean waves crashed on the beach is just a testimony to the high quality of value of these educational sessions.

During the Scientific Assembly, we were fortunate to have our first 2012-2013 Young Physicians Section (YPS) board of directors meeting, which was also a great success. We have many returning members as well as two new physicians to serve on the board. As the newly appointed president of YPS, I am 110% committed to making YPS grow, flourish and provide new benefits to our members. This same vision is shared by the newly elected leadership: vice president Jennifer Kanapicki, MD FAAEM; secretary/treasurer Mike Ybarra, MD; board members Heather Jimenez, MD; Jeff Pinnow, MD FAAEM; Michael Tang, MD FAAEM; and Sandra Thomasian, MD. I would also like to recognize Dr. Michael Pulia who did an excellent job in leading YPS last year and will remain active in YPS this year as immediate past president. I look forward to a productive year with our new board.

There's no doubt that the early years of a career in emergency medicine can be tough. Transitioning to a career while maintaining a balance between one's personal and professional lives is not easy. This is not something one has to do on his or her own, as one can lean on YPS. This is what fostered the development of YPS a few years ago and what helps keep it active today. YPS is open to physicians in their first seven years post-residency. Our goal is to promote the professional development of our members and provide them with education consistent with the principles and activities of AAEM.

In addition to the annual educational events at Scientific Assembly, we have developed a number of additional benefits to help our members with this transition. Make the right first impression by taking advantage of our CV and cover letter review service or participate in our mentoring program where you can develop relationships with other physicians to help guide you in your future career. Read our Rules of the Road for Young Emergency Physicians and learn how to enhance your personal and professional development while also learning techniques to deal with the challenges we face every day in the ED. We also provide our members with the opportunity to publish in Common Sense. Submit your article, and if it is chosen, you will receive a $25 gift card and complimentary one year YPS membership. Like our Facebook page, and take a look at our website www.ypsaaem.org to learn more about us and how we can benefit you.

This year will be an exciting year. We have many dedicated and enthusiastic members, and I know that by working together, we can accomplish many great things. If you would like to get more involved, please go to our website and join a committee.

So what are you waiting for? Get started, and become invested in your future. Get involved, join a committee, and let YPS be the organization that you lean on.