At the time of writing the last newsletter in April, I was hopeful about the coming months as COVID vaccinations were surging and cases were low. Currently it seems there is more reason for burnout than ever.
The institution where I work in Los Angeles is experiencing high levels of demand for care as all our patients try to follow up on deferred care. In addition, COVID testing, cases and hospitalizations are rising again. I am sure many of you across Los Angeles are experiencing similar surges.
These last few months have been tiring as we try to take care of all our patients’ needs. Nevertheless, I am frequently reminded of the joy and variety in being a Family Medicine physician as I rush from one room to the next: helping someone through an uncertain work-up to allaying fears about COVID vaccination or re-establishing someone on diabetic or hypertensive medications. It allows me to connect and be there for my patients and carries me through.
A bright spark on the horizon is the chance to get to see some of you in person soon! The Los Angeles Academy of Family Physicians is hosting its Annual General Meeting at Huntington Gardens. On September 26 from 10:00am (opening) to 5:00pm (closing), LAAFP members and guests will be able to enjoy the grounds and gardens.
Additionally, we will be holding an outdoor lunch meeting for members only from 11:00am to 12:30pm. At that meeting, please be prepared to nominate colleagues for openings on our Executive Board in accordance with our Bylaws. Members will be free to re-join their families after the meeting is adjourned.
We will be following any local public health guidance in place at the time of the event, which presently requires mask wearing indoors. This will be an outdoor event. For those of you that can join us I am excited to get a chance to see you and hear how you are all faring. Know that you are valued and appreciated for all that you do for the patients of Los Angeles.
Monique George, MD
LA Chapter President
