Many physicians recall their residency experiences as the best of times
and the worst of times. The best refers to the camaraderie and shared values,
the exponential growth in knowledge and skills, and lifelong friendships formed.
The worst includes the demanding nature of the work, the difficulty of dealing
with illness and death, and last, but certainly not least, the long hours.
Extensive duty hours are a necessary component of resident education and a
public symbol of a profession that requires hard work and dedication.