Diagnosed w/ life altering health condition, single parent to her sister, & navigating the gray area of accommodations during medical training- how I made it with Dr. Amanda Dudak
03/11/24 • 32 min
Have you ever wondered what it's really like for someone to make it through medical school?
In this episode, Dr. Amanda Dudak, MD shares her personal rollercoaster – the ups, the downs, and everything in between. From dealing with money matters to facing unexpected health problems, her story is a real, raw look at the challenges med students might not always talk about.
Join us as we unpack the grit, resilience, and camaraderie that shape the less-explored side of the journey to becoming a doctor.
In this episode:
[00:01:00] Dr. Dudak discusses the importance of highlighting unique experiences in medical school applications.
[00:02:00] Dr. Dudak's focus on underserved populations and social determinants of health.
[00:03:00] Variety of experiences in women's health, including volunteering at a crisis pregnancy center and Planned Parenthood.
[00:04:00] Dr. Dudak's desire for a medical education that acknowledges differences in backgrounds and teaches navigating the healthcare system.
[00:05:00] Dr. Dudak's atypical financial situation and decision-making process for choosing a medical school.
[00:06:00] Balancing financial considerations and personal fit in choosing a medical school.
[00:07:00] Challenges faced during medical school, including health issues and the financial burden.
[00:08:00] Juggling responsibilities as a single parent and medical student; getting support for her sister.
[00:09:00] Dr. Dudak's sickness during the first year of medical school and struggles with getting a diagnosis.
[00:10:00] Taking a leave of absence due to health issues, facing challenges with the insurance company.
[00:11:00] Diagnosis of CIDP (chronic form of Guillain-Barre syndrome) and the struggle to get medication approved.
[00:12:00] Difficulties in getting appropriate treatment and the impact on daily life.
[00:13:00] Returning to medical school with physical disabilities and navigating practical challenges.
[00:14:00] Meeting with the Dean's office to discuss the logistics of returning to medical school.
[00:27:00] Discussing challenges faced during rotations, accommodation needs, and support received.
[00:28:00] Reflecting on the value of speaking to people who have faced similar challenges.
[00:29:00] Sharing experiences with attendings and the importance of solidarity from peers.
[00:30:00] Discussing the impact of accommodations on rotation experiences and evaluations.
[00:31:00] Reflecting on the support received from the school and peers, and the impact on the overall experience.
Key Takeaway
Dr. Amanda Dudak's story is a powerful reminder that challenges are a part of everyone's journey, and it's crucial to embrace diversity in medical education. Her experiences highlight the need for support, empathy, and adaptability within the healthcare system. As we wrap up, let's use Dr. Dudak's journey as a starting point for conversations about including and understanding the varied paths that individuals take to become healthcare professionals.
Want to keep the convo going? Join our FB group!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevosistas
Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!
Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon
Have you ever wondered what it's really like for someone to make it through medical school?
In this episode, Dr. Amanda Dudak, MD shares her personal rollercoaster – the ups, the downs, and everything in between. From dealing with money matters to facing unexpected health problems, her story is a real, raw look at the challenges med students might not always talk about.
Join us as we unpack the grit, resilience, and camaraderie that shape the less-explored side of the journey to becoming a doctor.
In this episode:
[00:01:00] Dr. Dudak discusses the importance of highlighting unique experiences in medical school applications.
[00:02:00] Dr. Dudak's focus on underserved populations and social determinants of health.
[00:03:00] Variety of experiences in women's health, including volunteering at a crisis pregnancy center and Planned Parenthood.
[00:04:00] Dr. Dudak's desire for a medical education that acknowledges differences in backgrounds and teaches navigating the healthcare system.
[00:05:00] Dr. Dudak's atypical financial situation and decision-making process for choosing a medical school.
[00:06:00] Balancing financial considerations and personal fit in choosing a medical school.
[00:07:00] Challenges faced during medical school, including health issues and the financial burden.
[00:08:00] Juggling responsibilities as a single parent and medical student; getting support for her sister.
[00:09:00] Dr. Dudak's sickness during the first year of medical school and struggles with getting a diagnosis.
[00:10:00] Taking a leave of absence due to health issues, facing challenges with the insurance company.
[00:11:00] Diagnosis of CIDP (chronic form of Guillain-Barre syndrome) and the struggle to get medication approved.
[00:12:00] Difficulties in getting appropriate treatment and the impact on daily life.
[00:13:00] Returning to medical school with physical disabilities and navigating practical challenges.
[00:14:00] Meeting with the Dean's office to discuss the logistics of returning to medical school.
[00:27:00] Discussing challenges faced during rotations, accommodation needs, and support received.
[00:28:00] Reflecting on the value of speaking to people who have faced similar challenges.
[00:29:00] Sharing experiences with attendings and the importance of solidarity from peers.
[00:30:00] Discussing the impact of accommodations on rotation experiences and evaluations.
[00:31:00] Reflecting on the support received from the school and peers, and the impact on the overall experience.
Key Takeaway
Dr. Amanda Dudak's story is a powerful reminder that challenges are a part of everyone's journey, and it's crucial to embrace diversity in medical education. Her experiences highlight the need for support, empathy, and adaptability within the healthcare system. As we wrap up, let's use Dr. Dudak's journey as a starting point for conversations about including and understanding the varied paths that individuals take to become healthcare professionals.
Want to keep the convo going? Join our FB group!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevosistas
Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!
Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon
Previous Episode
Homeschooled, Rural upbringing, Mother battling cancer- how I persevered w/ anesthesiologist Dr. Amanda Dudak
Did you know that the journey to becoming a medical professional can take unexpected turns and detours? In this riveting episode, Dr. Elisha Peterson, MD sits down with the remarkable Dr. Amanda Dudak, MD, whose path to medicine was far from conventional.
Join us as we dive into the intricacies of her unique journey, from unconventional beginnings to the challenges faced during her mother's health struggles, and the sacrifices made to pursue a career in medicine. Dr. Dudak's story is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the importance of seeking alternative paths. What can we learn from those who forge unconventional routes to achieve their goals? Let's find out as we unravel the inspiring narrative of Dr. Amanda Dudak.
In This Episode:
[00:05:00] - Dr. Amanda Dudak discusses her unconventional educational background and upbringing.
[00:08:00] - Dr. Amanda talks about her mother's battle with brain cancer and the impact on their lives.
[00:11:00] - The challenges and frustration Dr. Amanda's mother faced post-surgery, affecting her ability to communicate.
[00:13:00] - Dr. Amanda highlights the importance of reaching out to a broader support network during difficult times.
[00:16:00] - Dr. Amanda explores her initial interest in becoming an equine vet and the realization that it might not be the right path.
[00:18:00] - Dr. Amanda discusses the support she received from her extended family during the med school application process.
[00:21:00] - The sacrifices and choices Dr. Amanda made to pursue medicine, including putting certain aspects of her life on hold.
[00:23:00] - Dr. Amanda reflects on the guidance she received from an MD PhD student and the strategic approach to her med school application.
[00:24:00] - The discussion around alternative paths to medical school and finding the right fit for one's career goals.
[00:25:00] - Dr. Peterson expresses gratitude for the guidance and coaching that helps individuals navigate their career paths.
Key Takeaway
Through Dr. Amanda Dudak's inspiring story, marked by unconventional beginnings, family struggles, and personal sacrifices, you're reminded of the importance of seeking alternative paths, leveraging support networks, and making strategic choices, even if it means temporarily putting some aspects of your life on hold. Dr. Dudak's experience teaches us that with dedication and perseverance, we can face any challenges that may come along our journey and achieve our aspirations, regardless of the odds.
Want to keep the convo going? Join our FB group!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevosistas
Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!
Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon
Next Episode
You can practice Anesthesia w/ a Physical Disability- here is how I do it w/ Dr. Amanda Dudak
Ever wondered how anesthesiologists handle tough situations with their hands?
In this last episode with Dr. Amanda Dudak MD, we're diving into the world of anesthesiology like never before. Dr. Dudak gives us a peek into the day-to-day life of an anesthesiologist, sharing stories that shed light on the challenges and triumphs of the job. From dealing with sensory issues to clever tricks in intubation, each marks a key moment in her journey. So, get ready for a fascinating dive into the world of anesthesiology, where Dr. Amanda Dudak's stories paint a vivid picture of life in the operating room.
In This Episode:
00:01:00 - Dr. Dudak's attraction to anesthesiology and immediate feedback
00:02:00 - Initial experiences on obstetrics rotation and interaction with anesthesia
00:03:00 - Dr. Dudak's exposure to anesthesia during a trauma case and its impact
00:04:00 - Decision to change from OB/GYN to anesthesiology during fourth year
00:05:00 - Late decision-making process and applying to anesthesia programs
00:06:00 - The supportive and adaptive environment in the anesthesia field
00:07:00 - The nimble thought process and adaptability in anesthesia
00:08:00 - Late application challenges and unique experiences in the interview process
00:09:00 - Strategic approach to residency applications and ranking list
00:10:00 - Learning experiences during residency interviews and making the final decision
00:11:00 - Uncertainty during Match Week and finding out about the match
00:12:00 - The significance of finding a supportive program and matching
00:13:00 - Advice on ranking programs and finding a place where you thrive
00:14:00 - Navigating residency with physical impairments and adaptive devices
00:15:00 - Overcoming challenges with sensory deficits and adapting techniques
00:16:00 - Learning from mistakes and adapting to challenges in the OR
00:17:00 - Adapting techniques in airway management and starting IVs
00:18:00 - Utilizing ultrasound guidance and increasing surface area for palpation
00:19:00 - Adapting to limitations, recognizing personal challenges, and seeking support
00:20:00 - Navigating residency with unique learning experiences and sharing mistakes
00:21:00 - Learning from auxiliary support staff and the importance of teamwork
00:22:00 - Overcoming challenges, handling mistakes, and supporting fellow residents
00:23:00 - Anesthesia as a lone ranger sport and the value of sharing stories
Key Takeaway
As we wrap up this fascinating episode with Dr. Amanda Dudak MD, we've learned a lot about the world of anesthesiology. From why she chose this field to the ups and downs of her time in training, Dr. Dudak's story is like a guide to understanding the life of an anesthesiologist.
It showed us the important moments in her journey, giving us a clear picture of what it's all about. Some big takeaways include being ready to adapt, finding a supportive program, and the power of teamwork to face challenges. Dr. Dudak's experiences are like a light for those interested in anesthesiology, proving that with determination, flexibility, and a helping community, anyone can succeed in the complex world of the operating room.
Want to keep the convo going? Join our FB group!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/sevosistas
Have a burning question? A concern? A controversy or issue you want to hear covered? We got you, boo!
Leave a voice message at 202 743 1404. We will play your recording on the podcast and address your topic (if you don't want it played just say it in the voicemail, we will still cover your topic!). This podcast is for you and we want to include you on this journey! Hope to hear from you soon
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