A committee on well-being of medical students and house staff

A committee on well-being of medical students and house staff was established in a university medical center to address some of the socioemotional aspects of medical education and training. The overall goal was to influence the learning climate in ways that would enhance positively the educational experience. Several problem areas were identified. They included poor communication, stressful effects of medical education both on self and on relationships, a need for advocacy, and a lack of support for house staff members. A series of programs were designed and implemented in response to these issues. With institutional support, a committee on well-being may serve as an effective approach in alleviating some of the stresses of the medical training process.