There is excitement and joy in learning! Lifelong learning allows physicians to find meaning in work. However, when schedules are busy and work piles up, learning and self-development are deprioritized and well-being may be compromised. Physicians need the time and space to nurture their joys. The Joy in Learning Mini-Sabbatical Program allows MGH physicians to take “mini” learning sabbaticals and explore a topic area of interest to them. These topics do not need to be medical. Each mini-sabbatical would be a 1 to 4 day tailored learning experience

Each mini-sabbatical would be individualized and shaped based on the learning needs and desired outcome of the applying physician. Some examples include:

Working 1:1 with other physicians that the applicant does not normally have the chance to work with or learn from (for example, spending a morning in Dermatology clinic, reading X-rays with a radiology colleague, or joining an inpatient consult team)

• Taking a course online or in-person (locally or elsewhere, within reason)

• Creating space for reading or self-directed learning

• Meeting with a peer in another institution to advance work on a shared project

• Attending a conference you might not otherwise attend in an area of interest (and not otherwise covered by CME stipends)

• Taking a mission trip

To apply, physicians must be employed in the Department of Medicine. Interested physicians should complete the following proposal and submit to cfpwb@partners.org. Applications will be reviewed on a quarterly basis (January 1, April 1, July 1, October 1); responses will be delivered within approximately 4 weeks. The proposal requires sign-off from the respective Division Chief.

Physicians are responsible for planning the mini-sabbatical, upfront costs, and for ensuring their patients are adequately covered during their time away (similar to other time away).

Costs of enrollment and travel included with receipts are funded up to $3000 per physician. If interested, please complete the Joy in Learning Proposal Form with sign-off from the Division Chief and Clinical Director, and submit it to cfpwb@partners.org.