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Across Hampton Roads, thousands of patients benefit each day from physicians still in training. This week, we pause to say thank you. 

In honor of Thank a Resident and Fellow Day on Friday, February 27, Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences Eastern Virginia Medical School at �������� celebrates the residents and fellows whose resilience, collaboration and clinical skill power patient care across the region. 

Through hands-on experience and mentorship-driven learning, these 454 physicians in training are transforming knowledge into action while shaping the future of healthcare in Coastal Virginia. Their work reflects the University’s commitment to preparing healthcare professionals who not only respond to today’s challenges but also improve the systems that shape tomorrow’s care. 

“Our residents and fellows rank among the best in the nation,” said Joshua Sill, MD, vice dean for Graduate Medical Education. “They play a vital role in the healthcare system, not only as caregivers for patients but also as mentors and resources for medical students. They embody the future of medical education and patient care and bring resilience, resourcefulness and a growing vision for improving health outcomes across the communities they serve.” 

The importance of training physicians locally is underscored by a looming national shortage. The Association of American Medical Colleges projects the United States could face a shortfall of 13,500 to 86,000 physicians by 2036. Recognizing this challenge, Sentara Health is investing in the future of the region’s healthcare workforce with a commitment to fund 200 additional residency and fellowship positions at Eastern Virginia Medical School at �������� over the next six years.

“We believe strongly that, if we train more physicians locally in our markets, we’re more likely to keep physicians in our markets,” said Michael Hooper, MD, executive vice president and chief clinical officer at Sentara Health. “An educational environment stimulates learning not only for those in training, but also those who are teaching or delivering care. The residents and fellows play a vital role in care for our community and making our health system better."  

It is that vital role — shaping the future of healthcare, while providing exceptional patient care — that Thank a Resident and Fellow Day recognizes. Created in 2018 by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation’s Gold Humanism Honor Society, the day honors physicians in residency for their dedication to their institutions, patients and the medical profession.