Two Residents Selected for ACGME Back to Bedside Funding
Dr. Anna Bianchi (image, right) and Dr. Mariely Mejorado (image, below left), both fourth-year residents, have been selected as recipients of the prestigious
Back to Bedside funding by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education
(ACGME). The ACGME chose 30 resident/fellow teams nationwide for the 2024-2026 funding
cycle, aimed at promoting deeper connections between physicians and patients while
enhancing physician and patient well-being.
The Back to Bedside initiative, launched in 2017 by the ACGME's resident council,
empowers residents to pioneer innovative strategies within their medical communities.
This cycle's projects span a diverse range of health care challenges, including nutrition
and wellness during pregnancy, inclusive care for the LGBTQIA+ community and end-of-life
care improvements.
Dr. Joshua Belfer, chair of the Back to Bedside Work and Advisory Group, emphasized the program's impact. "Residents and fellows are uniquely positioned to drive innovation in medical education. Back to Bedside not only funds their initiatives but also provides essential leadership and project management skills, fostering the next generation of health care leaders."
"We are excited to support Dr. Bianchi and Dr. Mejorado in their endeavor to enrich patient care experiences," said Dr. Steve Nelson, LSU Health New Orleans Chancellor. "Their initiative not only aligns with LSU Health’s commitment to patient-centered care but also highlights our residents' dedication to advancing medical practice."
Dr. Bianchi and Dr. Mejorado’s project focuses on enhancing patient-doctor relationships during hospital discharge. Their innovative approach includes replacing initial hospitalization photos with images reflecting patient recovery, symbolized by green grippy socks—a gesture inspired by mental health awareness movements. Patients will also provide feedback on their experiences, reinforcing the meaningful impact of their interactions with residents.