Critical deficiencies in the extreme poor and medical residents

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

5-1-2020

Publication Title

Anesthesia and Analgesi

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Residents form the foundation of medical care in teaching hospitals. They carry great responsibility with little control over their working conditions. They work long hours often sleep deprived. Their suffering is reflected in the high rates of depression, divorce, addiction and suicide (1). When we are faced with an extreme shortage of a resource needed for a normal life, like health, money, etc. it blights all other aspects of life. This paper compares the behavior of the poor, studied by the Nobel Laureates and economists Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo and that of medical residents. Perhaps their work may prove instructive. METHODS: Review and comparison of literature RESULTS: The economists noticed that the poor did not behave as they 'ought to'. They approached the issue with ideological agnosticism. Randomized Control Trials led to and understanding of 'what the poor are able to achieve and where they need a push'(2). Also, 'little well targeted help have surprisingly large effects'(2). Finally, 'misplaced expectations and seemingly minor hurdles can be devastating'(2). CONCLUSION: 1)The economists maintain that the immutable fact remains that those who are critically deprived need what is lacking, hence the poor need cash and residents need time. 2)Malnourished Moroccans when given money bought T.Vs but when given more money, they bought food(2). Residents may not use extra time to study but to recuperate as they see fit. Then when given even more they will inevitably study. 3)The poor don't need cheap grain. They are not deficient in calories. They need micronutrients and tasty food(2). Residents don't need more lectures. Good educational resources are aplenty. They need mentors, less for teaching and more for inspiration and guidance. 4)People differ in needs and abilities: Microcredits in general failed to make people invest and become rich. But an entrepreneurial subgroup richer and another non business minded subgroup got poorer(2). Residents have individual strengths, weaknesses and interests. Educators should tailor policies. 5)Immunization rates shot up when parents were rewarded for vaccinating their children(2). But UNICEF refused to reward parents for what they 'ought to do'. Educators need to recognize their prejudices. 6)Unlocking the poverty trap: When Bangladeshi villagers were given money with strong compassionate support along with the freedom to decide how to use it, the used the money wisely.They have continued to become richer tracked over 7 years now (3). With this, it was proven that hope itself is a resource. With residents, compassion and a modest quota of free time might release them from their time trap.

Volume

130

Issue

5

First Page

188

Find It @ Sladen

Share

COinS