One step closer to independent practice

Since starting her family medicine residency in July 2021, FMR2 Dr. Brianna Hutchinson (MD), has taken us along on her journey as a resident in Prince Albert. Now in her second year of residency, she shares some of the highlights and challenges she has experienced so far.

 

My name is Brianna Hutchinson and I am a current FMR2 at the Prince Albert site, in the Family Medicine program at the University of Saskatchewan.

This past summer I transitioned from first to second year residency, in Family Medicine. Man, how the year flew by! My year started with a few weeks of out-of-province electives in OBGYN, followed by my 4-week OBGYN rotation in Prince Albert. Currently, I am now settling into my core Family Medicine block at my home clinic here in Prince Albert.

What changes have you noticed as you transition from first to second year residency?

The transition comes with its own unique changes. As we go through residency, there is a natural transition to gaining more and more independence that happens as we garner knowledge, skills and confidence.

Initially, the idea of starting second year and having more responsibility for patients and less direct supervision was very daunting! However, I've felt very supported in this process and found that somewhere along the line, it was something that I was comfortable with and ready for. It definitely didn’t happen overnight and doesn’t mean that it isn’t still daunting from time to time. I think the time we invest gathering all that knowledge, skill and confidence in our first year truly does prepare us for a smooth transition into second year.   

I have thoroughly enjoyed the start of my second year. In between the daunting moments it is really exciting to take on more responsibility and feel like maybe, just maybe, I may be ready for independent practice in a year. However, with being an R2 also comes the lingering thoughts of CCFP Exam preparation and career planning. I am excited to see where this year leads me!

What have you enjoyed most about your family medicine residency so far?

When I haven’t been catching babies or in the clinic this year, I have really enjoyed all the north has to offer with my amazing group of co-residents. We enjoyed our annual resident camping weekend this summer and spend time almost weekly around a campfire, on a hiking trail, or grabbing food somewhere.  There is still much to explore and do, even after a year here!

Overall, second year has been going really well and with all the support in our program, I am very excited to see where the rest of the year goes.