After the attacks of September 11, we saw people of every caliber all across our communities join the ranks of the military and first responders in response to a tragedy that affected us all. Now, as our country is fighting the terrible effects of a global pandemic, we're hearing about a similar surge of applications toward another inspired vocation: an 18% increase in medical school applications over previous years.

One might think that the hardships physicians and healthcare workers have been experiencing for the past 10 months as they fight day and night to protect us all from COVID-19 would cause those discerning medical careers to elect an easier path. But here at Physicians First Messages we're pleased to say: we're not surprised.

We know firsthand how rewarding that path is just by virtue of our serving these doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers for the past 30 years. We've worked with them 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and seen them take on more calls, more shifts, more work, more cases, as they also endure heartbreaking losses, natural disasters, epidemics, and now this global pandemic.

Never once has one of them said to us "It's too much". 

Never once has one of them said "I can't."

Never once has one of them said "I quit."

Repeatedly, consistently, they have all said to their patients, and to each other, "I'm here."

And the healthcare workers of today are why we say, "How can we help?"
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Here's to those who inspire the future generations. 

​Who else loves December? It truly is the most wonderful time of the year.
 
I have fond memories of the holiday season, especially since it’s a time to not only catch up with family, but friends as well through dinners, parties, informal get-togethers, and maybe even a vacation. Our current pandemic has put a damper on much of these kinds of holiday events, with many companies even opting for virtual holiday parties for the workforce.

​If, however, you are able to put together any small celebrations for family, friends, and coworkers while you all practice the recommended precautions, there’s no reason not to! 

Physicians First Messages wants to encourage you to make the most of this holiday season, especially if you’re going to take part in one or more of the aforementioned functions over the next few weeks. 
​The CDC has provided some holiday guidelines ​to all of us for attending gatherings that will help us all to better enjoy ourselves safely.

Their considerations include much of what we’ve all been practicing this year:
- opt for outdoor or open events, maintain physical distance from attendees outside your own household members as much as possible
- limit physical contact such as shaking hands and hugs
- continue to recommend wearing masks when not eating or drinking
- and more. 

In addition to these common sense measures, we’d share one of our own: if you’re going to drink, don’t drive. In this day and age the various ride-sharing programs available across the nation make it so there’s no reason why  you and your fellow attendees can’t make it home safely if you don’t have a designated driver.

All in all, it’s been a tough year for all of us and we’re all looking forward to this holiday season where we hope to relax, and enjoy some levity and cheer with our friends and family.

Just remember these safety tips while you’re celebrating otherwise it won’t be much of a holiday celebration if it results in further spread in our communities. 
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We’d love to see you all celebrate the holiday season responsibly … for the sake of your well-being and others. 




Season’s Greetings!

Sincerely,
John Calhoun