Unfortunately, voluntary compliance with these guidelines by residency programs has been inadequate. Develop recommendations based on existing research on the relationship between sleep deprivation, fatigue and physician performance and education. In addition, we support new research into this relationship to fill in critical gaps in our knowledge. The AMA feels that detailed research may help us understand the effects of excessive work hours better and may show ways to reduce any negative effects on patient care and resident education.
Medical residents play a vital role in our nations health care system.
Their needs must be addressed. Copyright 1995-2001 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.