PM&R Chief Resident, Dr. Amanda Day, spearheaded a fun initiative for the community to get to know our residents. The PM&R resident spotlight is on PGY2, Dr. Ovuokerie (Vokay) Addoh.

Where did you go to medical school?
Oba Okunade Sijuade College of Health Sciences, Igbinedion University Okada, Nigeria.

PM&R resident and his wife at graduation

What are your interests within PM&R?
PM&R aligns with my academic interest in physical activity translational research, especially among clinically complex patients with higher burden of inactivity and sequelae. The relative novelty and opportunities to grow the global reach were also attractive. Clinically, the functional focus applying evidence-based mind-body-spirit methods to optimize overall well-being, and use of team-based cross-disciplinary collaboration were attractive tenets and a good fit for me. Physiatrists are also in a unique position to serve as administrative leaders and advocates within the medical and paramedical field.

Why the University of Minnesota for your PM&R training?
The people, the existence of an educator track, the categorical position, the flexibility and support for some level of tailored experience, and the level of resident involvement in program leadership.

Can you tell us more about the didactic communication curriculum you helped to develop?
Given ongoing "Twin Pandemics" of Covid-19 and acute-on-chronic systematic bias, our program has developed a brand new Improv-based communication curriculum, in collaboration with faculty from our Theatre Arts Department. Our vision is to facilitate a safe space for residents to build this critical aspect of our service as physiatrists using a longitudinal hands-on approach. Adapting exercises from techniques such as improvisation and storytelling, the course is designed to practice a wide array of strategies in order to gain awareness and control over personal expression. By learning how to manage personal expression more effectively, residents will become more empathetic in communication during difficult situations. We are piloting the course this year, and I look forward to seeing how it goes.

Resident standing next to painting

What’s your favorite thing about Minnesota thus far?
Winter.

What advice would you give a current fourth-year Med student applying to PM&R?
It's an exciting time. Enjoy the process and be true to yourself.

What are some fun facts about yourself?
1. My lovely wife is my personal photographer.
2. I was born and raised in Nigeria.
3. I like to lift heavy things for fun.

Follow the PM&R residency program's Instagram account for more social interactions!

PM&R Instagram