Byron Joyner, MD, MPA
In Seattle, the sun is beginning shine and the number of people getting sick from COVID-19 is declining. As spring approaches, I want to thank the many heroes in our community: all of the residents and fellows; the faculty and nurses; the staff and leaders – all of you who worked countless hours on behalf of our patients and their families.
In the long shadow of COVID-19, we learned a lot of things. We learned that the unknown can be daunting, especially in the face of social conflagration. We learned that teamwork makes the work easier. We also learned the magic – and the monotony – of Zoom, and how it accelerated the care of our patients and of each other.
Our residents and fellows play an important role in caring for our patients at UW Medicine and they continue to be vital in all that we do. We value their work and their commitment to our community. In spite of the unknown that the pandemic wrought and the challenges of communicating hardships of death, we learned that we are resilient. You did that.
I am conscious of the sacrifices you have made during the last two years with your education and your patients. Our hope is to continue to find ways to support and partner with you in building a healthy work environment that continues to support you in the best way possible.
While showing appreciation for each other is something we can all do year round, I want to especially acknowledge all of you now. I am proud to recognize your efforts and your patience.
The mask mandate will be relaxed earlier than we had anticipated. We will be able to face each other and see the faces of others. It will be a welcomed relief for many and a sign that we are trying to get back to normal – albeit a new normal.
On behalf of the entire GME Team, I would like to thank you for your care of our patients and acknowledge how challenging the last two years have been for you as healthcare professionals. Thank you.
Byron Joyner, MD, MPA
Vice Dean for GME and DIO