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 Name: Jason S. Eldrige, M.D. (Chief Resident, 2007-08)
Program:Anesthesiology, PGY-4 (CA-3), Mayo Clinic in Rochester
Hometown: Hermiston, Oregon
Medical School: Creighton University School of Medicine (Omaha, Nebraska)
What attracted you to medicine and anesthesiology?
"I have always been interested in the amazing complexity of the health sciences, and decided on a career in medicine fairly early on in college. Human physiology and pharmacology were areas that piqued my interest in medical school, and anesthesiology is a natural fit for these interests. Anesthesia is a fast-paced, procedurally active discipline and I'm fortunate to spend the majority of each day doing direct, hands-on patient care."
What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training?
"I was initially attracted by its stellar academic reputation, and the opportunity for a wide variety of clinical cases. When I interviewed, I realized that Mayo certainly lived up to its reputation; more importantly, however, was the realization that the clinical environment was tangibly different from other big academic institutions.
Mayo Clinic really is a paragon of group practice, with many clinical disciplines working together in a nearly seamless fashion. Moreover, the vast majority of clinicians, administrators, researchers, students, and other employees are outgoing and friendly. Despite Mayo's academic fame, there is really no noticeable hierarchy or arrogance; rather, everyone is on the same team for the betterment of patient care."
What makes the Mayo Clinic Anesthesiology Residency unique?
"Mayo's anesthesia program provides exceptional clinical training, has a passionate teaching faculty, and positive dynamics among fellow residents. The clinical case exposure, both in terms of acuity of care and case volume, is truly outstanding. In terms of clinical cases, there are few other institutions that can offer residents an overall clinical experience as comprehensive as Mayo Clinic. Additionally, the education of the resident really does matter here; rotations and duties are designed to maximize resident experience, and the residency program director is a great resident advocate."
Anything surprise you about Mayo's program?
"Perhaps the biggest surprise is the approachability of the world-renowned faculty. The culture here at Mayo really is different; clinicians are recruited for their expertise and their commitment to clinical care and medical education. The primacy of the patient, and the sanctity of resident education are not just ideals here at Mayo -- they are espoused core principles of everyday practice."
What is living in Rochester like for you?
"Rochester is a growing, diverse, family-centric community. Commute times, even during the so-called "rush hour" are virtually nonexistent. The cost of living is very affordable, and many residents choose to buy homes during their training because it's a good investment. The city is very safe, and the schools are strong. Overall, it is a great place to raise a family, with easy access to the many amenities of a large metropolitan area in Minneapolis/St. Paul."
What does your future look like right now?
"I will be starting an interventional pain medicine fellowship here at Mayo Clinic Rochester next year. The preparation I've received during my anesthesiology training has been superb, and I feel confident about being prepared for clinical practice. Whether I practice pain management, anesthesiology, or both, I know that I have benefited from unparalleled clinical case exposure and outstanding teaching -- experiences that will undoubtedly make me a better physician. I consider training at Mayo Clinic an absolute privilege, and I am very grateful for the experience."
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