By Lindsay Coate
The Sierra Sacramento Valley Medical Society is thrilled to announce the launch of a new mentorship initiative that will connect and inspire our local health care community. This program is a testament to the power of collaboration, offering an opportunity for seasoned physicians to share their wisdom while helping the next generation of doctors find their path. Together, we are building a brighter future for health care in our region.
Sacramento County ranks among the top five most diverse metropolitan areas in the United States, and UC Davis School of Medicine boasts the third most diverse student body in the nation. These are achievements worth celebrating, but they also come with responsibilities. Our local health care system faces challenges that call for action.
Approximately 35% of physicians in California are over the age of 60, signaling a potential wave of retirements in the near future. Meanwhile, Hispanic and Black physicians remain significantly underrepresented in the medical field, even as the population becomes more diverse. State licensure data reveals a concerning trend — an increase in physician exits coinciding with a decrease in new licenses issued in 2021. Programs like this mentorship initiative are essential toward ensuring we recruit, retain, and uplift the physicians our communities need.
Named Mentorship in Medicine, this program is thoughtfully designed to support aspiring and practicing physicians at every stage of their journey. With components tailored to pre-med students, medical students, residents, and early- to mid-career physicians, Mentorship in Medicine fosters meaningful connections and creates pathways for growth.
At the heart of the initiative is the one-on-one mentorship program, where mentors and mentees are carefully matched to ensure a meaningful partnership. Mentors are active or retired SSVMS members who commit to a five-month mentorship session. There will be two Mentorship in Medicine sessions held each year.
Mentees include undergrads with a pre-med focus, medical students, residents, and early- to mid-career physicians. Matches are based on shared interests, specialties, geographic proximity, and more, with biosketches provided to help each pair connect. Over the course of five months, pairs meet at least once a month — in person or virtually — and choose from a list of activities that deepen these bonds. For example, they can meet for lunch or coffee or attend a CME or an SSVMS event together. Meeting guidelines and a list of suggested activities and prompts will be provided to help mentors and mentees navigate their discussions with ease.
In addition to one-on-one mentoring, SSVMS will be hosting Speed Mentoring sessions to offer a dynamic and engaging way for college and medical students to interact with seasoned physicians. They will combine a casual atmosphere with structured intervals where mentees interview mentors and gain valuable insights. With appetizers, a relaxed environment, and time for follow-up conversations, these events are designed to spark connections that can last a lifetime.
Mentorship is more than just professional development; it’s about creating a sense of belonging, hope, and purpose. For mentees, it offers personalized guidance, a supportive network, and real-world insights that help them navigate the challenges of a medical career. For mentors, it’s a chance to leave a legacy, gain fresh perspectives, and renew their passion for medicine. Most importantly, mentorship has the power to bridge gaps and create a health care workforce that reflects the diversity and resilience of the community it serves.
Whether you’re a retired, seasoned or new physician looking to give back, there’s a place for you in the Mentorship in Medicine. Sign up here to let us know more about your mentorship interests or for more information, contact us at info@ssvms.org. Together, we can cultivate a health care workforce that meets the needs of our growing and diverse community.
