American Medical Association (AMA) President Susan R. Bailey, M.D., has released the following statement recognizing the work of residents in the fight against COVID-19. The statement comes as part of the AMA’s Recognizing Residents Week, running from July 6-10.

“In the middle of a global pandemic and unprecedented demands on our health system, medical residents have been pushed into service on the front lines of patient care. They have done invaluable, exhausting work in the fight against COVID-19, risking their own health in the process. I’ve heard many of their stories. While many of these young physicians are feeling the joys of this profession, they are also experiencing its burdens, often feeling overwhelmed and scared. They need to know that their service, skill, agility, and, yes, bravery are not going unnoticed. Residency has always been one of the busiest times in a physician’s career. But nothing compares to what the 136,000 residents and fellows across the country are experiencing at this time in history. On behalf of the AMA, I thank them for their contributions to the health of their communities and our nation, and assure them that their hard work is seen and is making a difference.”

As part of Recognizing Residents Week, the AMA released a tribute video, and will be focusing its daily COVID-19 Update to topics dedicated to residents all week. The first episode went live Monday, and focused on whether the pandemic reinforced or changed residents’ reasons for practicing medicine.