Do you have any thoughts on the 80-hour workweek limit for residents and fellows?
In the early 2000s, the ACGME created rules that limited work and educational hours for all medical residents and fellows, including the 80-hour workweek. Your interviewers mainly want to hear that you are aware of the work hour limits that are in place and to know if you have any concerns or opinions on this.
"I understand this system is in place to prevent poor performance of residents and fellows due to exhaustion. There were times during my Internal Medicine Residency training when I know that line in the sand was nearing and by the end of the 6th day in a row working 12 hours shifts, I was exhausted. But, I know that the next three years in training as a GI Fellow will entail a great time requirement and I'm ready to take on whatever time is needed in training with your program."
A lot of people are opinionated about this topic, and this could include one or more of your interviewers. For this reason, it is important to focus on the pros and cons but not take a strong stance on this topic. State that you are aware of the rules, why they are in place, and the impact they can have on every Gastroenterology Fellow in training at their program.
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I am aware of the rules, and why they are in place, and I'm ready to take on whatever time is needed in training with your program.
Marcie's Feedback
It's great that you're both familiar with the rules and open to working as many hours as necessary. Be sure to go into more detail, however, about why the limit is necessary and indicate that you recognize the need for a healthy work/life balance even while being willing to go above and beyond. The interviewer will appreciate your passion but also want to know that you'll take care of your emotional and physical health too. Great job!
Anonymous Answer
I am aware of this work limit which I believe was put in place to prevent residents/fellows from getting exhausted from long work hours which I believe would lead to improved quality of learning and patient care in the long run.
Jaymie's Feedback
Patient safety is a top priority! It sounds like you understand why the limit was put in place and agree with its reasoning.
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