Mission
The mission of the Wellness Section of Emergency Medicine at Emory University is to “contribute to Emory’s status as a ‘best place to work’ by creating and maintaining a working environment that nurtures the well-being and professional fulfillment of all staff.” Our section strives to provide local, regional and national leadership toward improving the health and wellness of all physicians and healthcare providers.
Wellness Leadership
Leaders in our department have been involved in advocating for and promoting local, regional, and national change in the healthcare system with the goal to improve wellness for physicians and healthcare providers. The prolific number of our publications and involvement in national committees demonstrates this commitment. We promote wellness by encouraging teamwork, positivity in patient care, empathy, group events, and group retreats.
On the local and national levels, Emory EM has several wellness champions. Many have authored several publications and are leaders of committees.
- Dr. Sheryl Heron: Chair, Emory University SOM Wellness Working Group
- Dr. Michelle Lall: Director of WEDI
- Dr. Philip Shayne: Lead, GME Wellness
- Dr. Alex Isakov: Chair of the Faculty Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) Advisory Committee
- Dr. Shamie Das: Site lead EUH
- Dr. Adrienne VanCurren: Site lead EUH
- Dr. Elle Brombereck: Site lead EUHM
- Dr. Lisa Tadayon: Site lead VA
- Dr. Michael Zdradzinski: Co-Chair, Wellness Committee
- Dr. Nicole Battaglioli: Co-Chair, Wellness Committee
- Liz Alexander: APP Lead
- Sharon Ashley: Staff Lead
Importance of physician well-being
According to the World Health Organization, wellness is defined as a “state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” Healthcare providers are not immune to poor wellness and well-being, and their high prevalence of burnout, depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders are all contributing factors. In the Emory Department of Emergency Medicine, we have a commitment to encouraging the conversation surrounding these issues, promoting solutions and in turn, fostering well-being for all.