DVA – James H. Quillen Veterans Affairs

Attendings/Residents/Students (lifestyle, criticism, aura): The attendings were great with Dr. Goring, and Dr. Chatelain and Dr. Mahairis they each brought in a new dynamic that allowed a great learning enviroment.

Didactics: Wednesday mornings we would go over the interesting cases in a non-pimping manner which I preferred

OR Experience: Very hands on for the residents and I was allowed to suture and help retract

Clinic Experience: Got to help out with the resident in the room

Research Opportunities: I am unsure

City Life: Small town country roads vibe

Favorite Part: The country life and the team

Constructive Criticism: I really enjoyed my month here and would definitly rank

Pros:

1. The people; I loved Dr. chatelain. He was new when I came to this program but is an excellent resource for wound care and surgery and is a so kind and great to work with. The residents were laid back and friendly. The people of East Tennessee are some of the nicest people ever! Get out of the apartment and you will see what I mean!

2. Pass the knife; for me 1 surgery where I am doing the work is worth 2 where I watch and retract. There are other programs that have higher numbers but many times the residents are watching not doing. Here the residents are hands on.

3. Work life balance; we got out for the day at 3:30 or 4 on most days. I have kids so this was a big plus for me.

4 outdoor life; camping and hiking and biking abound in this area.

Cons:

1. Not a major metropolitan area; no professional teams or theaters and such that you get in larger cities.

2. The numbers are not the highest; I already spoke to this in the pro’s section.