Residency is not just training—it’s the foundation for the kind of physician you will become. At UAMS, we know this journey comes with long hours, challenging cases, and big expectations. That’s why we put just as much focus on your wellness as we do on your education. Our goal is to support you, build your resilience, and create a community where you can learn, grow, and thrive—both inside and outside the hospital.
Ongoing Wellness Efforts
Our commitment to resident wellness began in 2018, when residents and faculty launched a quality improvement project to address secondary traumatic stress. Since then, we have continued to build on those efforts with regular monitoring, feedback, and initiatives designed to support our trainees.
Some highlights of our wellness programming include:
- Monthly Reflection Rounds – safe spaces to openly discuss difficult cases and experiences.
- Y Week – built into the schedule to give residents protected time for personal appointments, rest, and self-care.
- Resident Wellness Group – peer-driven support and connection.
- Targeted Interventions – resources and strategies tailored to specific stressors.
- Regular Time Off – one full weekend off in every 14-day block to recharge and spend time with family and friends.
Because our residents’ needs are diverse, we are committed to continually assessing and evolving these efforts to ensure meaningful and lasting support.
Social Events
Work-life balance is a cornerstone of our program. We encourage our residents to explore Little Rock, connect with peers, and enjoy life outside the hospital.
We host a variety of residency-sponsored events throughout the year — from family-friendly gatherings to casual social outings. In addition to these scheduled events, we continue to develop creative opportunities for residents to decompress, build friendships, and spend quality time with loved ones.
To see examples of past and upcoming activities, visit our Seasonal Social Events | UAMS Department of Pediatrics page.
UAMS Wellness Resources
In addition to the ongoing efforts within our individual residency program, all residents will have access to the Employee Assistance Program with confidential and emergent counseling if needed. Please visit the following link for the UAMS GME Wellness Resources: https://residentwellness.uams.edu/.
