At the heart of care: Thanking our residents and fellows

This Friday, February 27, the University of Louisville joins institutions across the country in celebrating National Thank a Resident Day. Established in 2018 by the Gold Humanism Honor Society, this day recognizes the vital contributions of physicians in training, including both residents and fellows, who serve on the front lines of patient care every day. 

At the University of Louisville School of Medicine, trainees are the driving force behind both clinical education and the continuous improvement of patient care. Balancing long hours, complex cases and rigorous academic expectations, they bring energy, innovation and a deep sense of purpose to every shift. “Their presence brings fresh perspectives, new ideas, and a constant energy that pushes all of us to think critically and grow,” said Hugh Shoff, associate chief medical officer for UofL Health. 

With over 800 trainees, each one provides a unique lens of expertise and empathy to the university. They care for patients at various clinical sites, including UofL Health facilities, Norton Children’s Hospital and the Veteran’s Affairs General Hospital, continuing to refine their skills under the mentorship of clinical faculty. Our residents and fellows serve as the heart of medicine for these facilities. They routinely adapt to the unpredictable demands of medicine, setting aside personal schedules and academic checklists to meet the urgent needs of patients and their families. “Their willingness to devote so much of themselves to their training and their patients exemplifies the highest level of professionalism and compassion in medicine,” Shoff said. 

Their impact is not only felt in hospitals and clinics, but also in the culture of learning that defines academic medicine. Luz Fernandez, program director for the family medicine residency program, sees that influence firsthand. “I love the curiosity and spirit of inquiry that our residents bring to our daily work lives. I learn something from our residents every day.”  

This generation of physicians in training is helping shape a culture that prioritizes self-care, professional advocacy and humanistic care. By focusing on wellness and compassion, they aren't just mastering medicine; they are building the resilience necessary to fiercely advocate for their patients. This shift is transforming the culture at UofL into one where physicians feel empowered, engaged and genuinely find joy in their workdays and the patient interactions that define them.  

Thanking your residents is as simple as offering a genuine compliment or a heartfelt “thank you” while they check in and complete their rounds. Another impactful way to support them is by leaving positive feedback on their patient satisfaction surveys. As Fernandez notes, a little bit of hospitality goes a long way: “Physicians love food and special treats just as much as anyone else, so that can also be a great way to show appreciation!"  

Let this article serve as a formal “Thank You” to all residents and fellows, especially those at the University of Louisville. Your unwavering sacrifice and commitment to our clinical affiliates do more than just keep them running; they provide the heartbeat of our medical community. You are not only ensuring our systems function better today, but you are collectively redefining the future of compassionate health care.  

Today and every day, we are grateful for the curiosity, compassion and commitment our residents and fellows bring to medicine.