The Student Association of the ACOFP continues to partner with the Resident Council on personal interviews. We are excited about the insights and perspectives our residents provide students in planning for residency and engaging in volunteer opportunities within ACOFP.

This month, students interviewed Stephen M. Kuehn, DO, to learn more about his residency program, why he chose family medicine and what advice he has for students.

Meet Stephen M. Kuehn, DO

Stephen M. Kuehn, DO, PGY-3
Ellis Medicine Family Medicine Residency
Schenectady, New York

 

Why did you choose this residency program?

Schenectady is close to home for me, and we wanted to be near family with our children. Ellis Medicine Family Medicine Residency also has a great OMT program, and I wanted a residency where I could continue to do this regularly.

What is a typical day like in your life as a resident?

I usually wake up at 5:30 am to work out. Then, I’m in the clinic at 8 am, usually until 5 pm. I get home by 6 pm, have some time with my family and finish my notes from 9–11 pm.

If I’m doing inpatient medicine as a third year, I’m in the hospital at 7 am. Rounds start by 10 am, with follow up and discharge until 5 pm. I sign out at 7 pm and am home by 8 pm. We have medical students for inpatient service and for clinic, so we do a lot of teaching with them and the junior residents.

Why did you choose family medicine?

I love treating the whole patient, not just their specific diagnosis. Family medicine allows you to help your patient stay healthy from the day they are born and work with them for their lifetime. No other specialty can make such an impact.

Why did you volunteer to join the Resident Council?

I wanted to have a voice in the decision-making process, see how ACOFP works to engage DOs and advocate for our profession.

What do you like most about ACOFP?

ACOFP represents a family of physicians who are dedicated to both the welfare of their patients and the advancement of osteopathic principles. I believe that our profession succeeds—and patients are better cared for—when we seek health, not disease, and help others care for themselves. ACOFP promotes these values.

What is your one word of advice to students?

Practice. Practice your exam skills, communication skills, OMT skills, listening skills—all of it. Read and learn, but practice. A lot of knowledge is less important than knowing how to use the knowledge you have. So, practice.

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