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Gregory Kennedy, MD

Pediatric Chief Resident

Future Career Goals: Outpatient Pediatrician

Medical School: University of California, San Diego

Hometown: Sacramento, California

Q: Why did you want to become a pediatric chief?

A: In my three years of residency, I’ve grown personally, academically, mentally. I couldn’t be happier with my training and was so thankful for the previous chiefs and administration, that I wanted to give back by training and helping the current residents. I love being able to build on the educational experiences and improve the standards that have already been established. This year, I have especially enjoyed working with Dr. Taylor to revamp outpatient curriculum for the residents.

Q: What are your plans after chief year (and why outpatient pediatrics)?

A: I'm planning to pursue a career in Outpatient Pediatrics in Southern California. I love the long-term continuity and seeing how your management impacts patients longitudinally. I also enjoy keeping kids out of the hospital (unless it is absolutely necessary). Hospitalization is stressful for both the child and the family; not to mention the cost it incurs. That's why I enjoy the opportunity to intervene and provide preventative education. But, of course, I am extremely thankful for hospitals and hospitalists for those instances where we exhaust our outpatient abilities and resources.

Q: Advice for budding interns or healthcare professionals?

A: If you find yourself bogged down by the extra administrative tasks, refocus on the patients... One technique I would use in the hospital was to check on my patients at the end of the day and answer their family's questions. Not only did these informal "rounds" decrease the number of questions for the covering night team, it also provided the connection that grounded me as a resident.

Q: What are some of your favorite hobbies?

A: I am an avid record collector and I have achieved junkie status at this point. I listen to most any kind of popular music from 1940s up through the modern day. I probably have around 1200 records... In an effort to share my passion for music, I started a blog series entitled "The Sunday Spin." The idea for the Sunday Spin was heavily influenced by my mentor in medical school, Dr. David Rapaport. Every Friday, he would share a song that provided special meaning in his life in conjunction with a story about his adolescence or travels. With his permission and guidance, I started a post of my own during my intern year of residency. The topics range from managing dysautonomia to driving in the rain in Southern California, but mostly it is a therapeutic outlet for me to express my thoughts. And if people enjoy it, great! If not, that's okay too. Currently, I am up to 62 episodes of "The Sunday Spin."