At KU Wichita Pediatrics, we value resident wellness and want our residents to have the tools they need to thrive in a supportive environment. We offer perks that simplify life to decrease stress, including free breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday at Wesley and free parking in the physicians' parking lot right at the hospital entrance. We also provide training for residents on how to handle grief, increase resiliency and manage fatigue. Additionally, we have a very supportive environment including faculty advisors who are available to residents and free access to a professional life coach. 

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Welcome, New Residents

Each year we host several parties for the incoming interns including a BBQ at a faculty member's home and a party hosted by current residents for incoming interns. 

Fall Retreat

One weekend in the fall, first- and third-year residents are excused from clinical duties on a Friday afternoon for a weekend away. The residents participate in a team building program and of course have some playtime. The retreat is usually at a location at least an hour or two away from the hospital so they can really "get away." Past retreats have included visits to the Kansas City Royals, Worlds of Fun, cabins in a Kansas park and Kansas City Crown Center.

Spring Retreat

Every year in the spring, first- and second-year residents are excused from weekend duties and invited by the rising chief residents to a weekend of fun, food, relaxation and discussions on residency program improvements and changes to prepare for the next year. At the end of the weekend, residents and faculty meet together to discuss ideas.

December Parties 

There's plenty of holiday fun for everyone. Residents exchange gag gifts during a White Elephant exchange and pediatric faculty/staff/residents attend a holiday party with their families.

Wellness Week Activities

During the busy months of February and March, we provide wellness activities to promote resident relaxation. Previous activities have included massages, movies and snacks, lego building contests, cookie decorating and happy hour.

Halloween Goodie Bags

Each year around Halloween, the residents, along with Baby Jay, give bags of goodies to the children in the pediatric wards and in the PICU.

Graduation and Recognition Ceremony

Our graduation ceremony includes a dinner and entertainment in the form of a video presentation presented by the program director, a dance floor and a photo booth. This event is a fun celebration that honors the residents' tremendous accomplishments during their residency, and is a great way to say goodbye and good luck to the graduating class. Awards are distributed for outstanding achievements to resident-selected faculty members as well as awards to residents who were selected by faculty members.