October 22, 2024
The PALTmed and Foundation for PALTC Futures Program starts with a one-day session during the association’s annual conference. However, the connections and information the attendees get last for years and often help shape careers. “The most memorable part of the program for me was the opportunity to meet fellows and others in the program. I still talk to my Futures ‘family,’ and we stay connected through group chats,” says Pavitri Dwivedi, DO, MPH, a member of the class of 2023.
Dr. Dwivedi knew she would get helpful information at the Futures Program. However, she was surprised at how much she learned that was applicable throughout the care continuum beyond nursing homes. She says, “Futures taught me skills that were incredibly useful to me in so many platforms of geriatrics, not just long-term care.” At the same time, she notes, “The program really solidified my decision to pursue a career in post-acute and long-term care.” The program also nurtured Dr. Dwivedi’s interest in volunteer leadership. She is an active and engaged PALTmed member who is running a panel of Futures alumni at PALTC25 in Charlotte, NC, and is also helping to plan the Futures Program there.
She says of her Futures experience, “It’s changed the way I have practiced medicine, and I think it's changed how I network with people.” She adds, “One of the greatest things about PALTmed is that it's a smaller conference, and it’s easier to network and meet people.” She also observes that PALTmed members are friendly, open, and happy to share their insights and experiences with others, including those who are new to the field. The Futures Program, she says, “introduced me to so many people who are great leaders in our field.”
No doubt, the Futures Program is a great introduction to post-acute and long-term care, says Dr. Dwivedi, and an important way to bring young professionals into the field. However, she suggests, “The exposure to PALTC really needs to start earlier than fellowships and residencies. There needs to be more education and more talk about geriatrics in medical and nursing schools.” She notes that medical schools may encourage students to spend some time in nursing homes, but this is just a small part of geriatrics. “We need to find ways to increase the field’s visibility,” she says. She is doing her part by starting a podcast called Humanizing Geriatrics, which will share stories about older adults and the “beauty” of aging.
Applications for the 2025 Futures Program are being accepted through November 18, 2024. It is open to residents, fellows, advanced practice providers, and allied health professionals.
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