Well, my run of clerkships was coming to an end. There were just a few more required clerkships to attend to. One of them was outpatient medicine and outpatient pediatrics. These clerkships occurred over 8 weeks in July and August. I spent four weeks on adult outpatient medicine, with a focus on women's health. Then I spent another four weeks on outpatient pediatrics at the academic practice by the undergraduate campus in Pittsburgh. I enjoyed my time on outpatient medicine. It was a time to learn and grow. The schedule allowed for a lot of reading and academic time (and also some time with my family), which was a nice change of pace from inpatient medicine. We also had just changed over in the year, so I was with a new batch of third year medical students who were freshly starting their clinical rotations. For those not in medicine: the first two years of medical school is traditional books, the second two years is taking care of patients - I was working with a new group of students who just started taking care of patients. I enjoy getting to meet the new crew and reassuring them that everything will work out - just keep working hard and taking care of your patients to the best of your ability - the rest will fall into place.

Outpatient peds was tough. Having my own children I'm generally of the camp "you'll be fine, brush it off". However, with this rotation, I needed to take a step back and think objectively about my patients concerns and their presentation to clinic. I also was able to learn the detail and reasons for questions that occur at all my well child visits. Its much more involved than I had initially appreciated! I also was able to meet some amazing pediatricians and child advocates who are doing a lot within our community to support children and families! That part was very inspiring.

My favorite part of the pediatrics part of the rotation was connecting with moms. With every mom and dad, I tried my best to tell them just what an amazing job they were doing. Congratulating them a job well done, a difficult, time consuming, and never ending job. Parents are amazing, and I hope that message was one that stayed with them during any time of self doubt.

Outpatient medicine and pediatrics was a unique experience. I definitely have a lot more appreciation for all of my talented colleagues in primary care. The wealth of knowledge and the ability to determine "sick from not sick" is impressive. You are all amazing! Also, how do you remember all these guidelines and studies? Rockstars... for real.

Combined Adult & Pediatric Outpatient Medicine

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