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WHEREAS, quality, affordable and accessible patient-centered healthcare, provided by skilled physicians, contributes to the well-being and quality of life for all citizens of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and,
WHEREAS, the United States faces a nationwide physician shortage expected to become more acute as demand for health care accelerates because of a growing, diversifying and aging population; and,
WHEREAS, graduate medical education plays a crucial role in preparing physicians to meet this increased demand, as all physicians must receive residency training prior to entering medical practice; and,
WHEREAS, graduate medical education resident and fellow physicians are often the first point of contact with the health care system for many patients and play a vital role in helping patients understand their medical needs and empowering them to become effective self-advocates; and,
WHEREAS, graduate medical education resident and fellow physicians are academically and clinically prepared to provide healthcare services, under the direction of a supervising physician, including diagnosis and treatment of disease, assist in surgery and prescribe medications; and,
WHEREAS, a valuable asset to the medical community, graduate medical education resident and fellow physicians work side-by-side with experienced supervising physicians, nurses and other members of the health care team to enhance the delivery of high-quality healthcare to all patients, often in medically underserved areas; and,
WHEREAS, graduate medical education residents and fellows have earned the respect of the citizens of Pittsburgh for their contribution and dedication to their health and well-being, and for working together with the health care team to ensure delivery of more efficient and effective health care services; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Friday, July 1st, 2016 to be “Graduate Medical Education Day” in the City of Pittsburgh.