June 2002
In practice: Integris Family Care, Yukon, OK

There are a lot of good programs, but Great Plains had the more enthusiastic attendings and great hospital systems in which to work. The residents were happy about their situation and wanted to be there. I chose GPFM because of opportunity, autonomy, attendings and location. I enjoyed the relationships I built there - I am currently in practice with three of the other graduates and stay in regular contact with the attending physicians. The evidence based medicine slant to the Great Plains program is an obvious strength, one which is gaining even more importance due to the coming performance oriented contracts. Even more important, I always had the feeling that I was doing things the right way that benefited the patients. The OB program was very strong. The attendings really want you to learn it's not all about the work. My best memories were taking care of patients both in happy times while delivering babies and during sad times helping families cope with terminal diagnoses or the death of loved ones. I will also fondly remember the other residents working, learning and helping each other get through the challenges that all residents have. I always feel prepared to care for my current patients because of the training I received at GPFP. The other residents I speak to always agree, "No better place to have spent my time in training."