March 1999
Volume 63 |
Number 3
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FAER REPORT
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| AER/ASA Glaxo
Wellcome Resident Scholar Program |
M. Jane Matjasko, M.D., FAER Director 1992-1998
The Foundation for Anesthesia Education and Research (FAER) with
ASA and Glaxo Wellcome jointly provide an educational experience
for residents from anesthesiology programs in the United States.
Over the past 10 years, Glaxo Wellcome has sponsored 325 residents
to attend the ASA Annual Meeting. The purpose is to introduce
the resident scholars to FAER and its mission, accomplishments
and opportunities, to permit the residents to observe the political
processes within ASA that set standards for practice and professional
behavior, and to afford the residents an opportunity to maximize
their attendance at many of the educational activities during
the meeting: refresher courses, workshops, problem-based learning
discussions, scientific and technical exhibits, and many more.
In addition to an understanding of the role that FAER plays
in providing research funds for young anesthesiologists beginning
their research careers, these honored guests develop a more thorough
knowledge and understanding of the role and benefits of ASA membership.
The scholars program begins Saturday morning with breakfast and
a one-hour session designed to familiarize the attendees with
the importance of the commitment of FAER, ASA and individual anesthesiologists
to the long term scientific development of anesthesiology. This
year, individuals who were FAER recipients shared their personal
experiences of receiving a FAER starter grant or research fellowship
and how their career has been impacted by these opportunities.
There is always a mention of the importance of the mentoring process
to the success of the grant recipient.
The comments received from the Resident Scholars demonstrate
the value of this program to them. For example:
House of Delegates
"...Gave me insight as to...how important issues that affect
our practice are handled."
"Excellent to gain an appreciation of the political process
that dictates the ASA agenda."
"...Impressed as to the magnitude of involvement..."
Orientation
"...Interesting to be able to meet with such prominent individuals
from our specialty."
"Aroused enthusiasm for further involvement in academic and
professional activities."
"Came away feeling that ASA is truly a dynamic organization
rather than an impenetrable monolith."
Scientific Sessions
"...Provided an excellent learning atmosphere..."
"Good speakers with good advice..."
"...Very worthwhile ...and eye-opening."
Dinner and Reception
"I loved the way so many senior members just came up and started
talking to me..."
"...Excellent opportunity to meet prominent members of the
field and discuss issues..."
General Comments
"...[I] applaud FAER and Glaxo Wellcome for showing an interest
in residents who will in a very short time be contributing members
of the field, in addition to the teachers of the next generation
of residents."
"...Great opportunity for new members of the field to become
active in their career..."
"...Pride in our specialty was heightened."
"...Stimulated my desire to become active in ASA and the component
societies." "...Do not let program ever end."
"...Helped me understand the diversity in Anesthesia as a
field outside residency."
"Provided a framework from which I could set future goals."
"...Opportunity I would not otherwise have had as a resident,
and...an invaluable experience."
There were many expressions of thanks to Glaxo Wellcome and
FAER for the opportunity to attend the ASA Annual Meeting and
for being guided through the political, business, scientific and
educational opportunities available at the meeting. Several scholars
commented that the program was exceptionally well-planned. FAER
is proud to participate in a program that invests in the future
of our specialty so directly. Professionalism in their practice
and participation in ASA activities at the local and national
level will assure the long-term health of anesthesiology in both
patient care and research. The members of ASA can be particularly
proud of their contribution to the 325 scholars over the past
10 years of the Glaxo Wellcome Resident Scholars Program.
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