Resident Wellness

The Madison Family Medicine Residency Program is committed to supporting residents as whole people. The program recognizes that personal well-being is essential to effective learning, patient care, and long-term professional fulfillment. Wellness is intentionally built into the structure of the program and supported through clear policies, protected time, community-building, and accessible leadership. 

Community and Connection

Strong relationships are a cornerstone of wellness in family medicine, and the program prioritizes opportunities for residents to connect with one another. Residents participate in regular wellness-focused activities during didactic time, including small-group check-ins, facilitated discussions, and resilience-focused sessions. 

Community-building events are also an important part of the residency experience. Residents gather for social activities throughout the year, including chief resident rounds and an annual resident retreat. The retreat is fully supported by the program, with clinical coverage arranged to allow residents to step away from clinical duties and focus on connection, reflection, and team building.

Wellness as Part of Training 

Wellness in the Madison Family Medicine Residency Program is not an add-on — it is integrated into the curriculum and daily training experience. Residents are supported through structured opportunities for reflection, connection, and self-care, as well as flexibility when personal or family needs arise. 

The program provides protected time during outpatient rotations that residents may use for medical appointments, personal needs, or self-care. Clear scheduling policies help ensure that residents can take this time without penalty while maintaining clinical and educational responsibilities. 

Supportive Leadership and Culture 

Program leadership, faculty, chief residents, and residency staff are committed to creating a supportive and respectful training environment. An open-door approach encourages residents to seek guidance, share concerns, and access support early. Faculty and leaders work closely with residents to navigate challenges, life events, and periods of increased stress during training. 

When unexpected events or crises occur, the program has clear processes in place to support residents and ensure safety, communication, and appropriate accommodations. Residents are not expected to navigate difficult situations alone.

Flexibility and Life Events

The program recognizes that major life events — such as pregnancy, parenthood, illness, or family responsibilities — are a natural part of residency for many trainees. Policies and scheduling practices are designed to provide flexibility and support during these times, including parental leave options, transition periods back to clinical work, and accommodations for lactating residents. 

A Shared Commitment

Wellness is a shared responsibility within the Madison Family Medicine Residency Program. Through intentional design, clear communication, and a culture of respect and support, the program aims to create an environment where residents can thrive personally and professionally throughout training.