Second, we need to be respectful for each other. We are going to have disagreements; but as long as we recognize the team dynamic and also respect each of the professions in that we all have the same mission, I believe most of our differences actually will fade away.

Last year, we did a special issue in May during Mental Health Month focusing on some issues as they pertain to emergency physicians. What do you want ACEP members to know about mental health?

Dr. Kang: I think it comes down to both our patients and ourselves. That’s why I’d like to advocate and prioritize mental health over this next year or maybe even two years. We know every day when you show up at work, mental health of our patients is a critical issue, not only in the volumes that we see, but sometimes the severity, whether it’s violence, despondency, or delirium.

Secondly, we are all impacted by the boarding of mental health patients when the entire system doesn’t have the inpatient or outpatient resources to help us. I’ve heard stories in the Southeast where we have patients who are boarding the ED for over 180 days. And today, I learned in the Midwest there’s a patient that’s over 230 days. How is that right for the patient? How is that right for their families? And how is that right for the ED? Which then transitions to what do we do for ourselves? And part of it is reducing the stigma, recognizing the burden, the privilege that we’ve had over the last several years, continuing to work and show up daily throughout the pandemic; and now we’re being asked to do even more with less—not only resources, but respect.

With the Lorna Breen Act, with recognition that we are sometimes heroes, but we’re also human, how can we make sure that our members know that they’re heard? As we’ve seen recent campaigns with ED violence, now we’re going to press forward with boarding and then press forward on mental health. Again, I want to reinforce it’s not just patients; it’s also for ourselves.

I hope to catch up in Philadelphia at ACEP 2023. I hear you’re a foodie. So, are you going to Gino’s or Pat’s for your cheese steak?

Dr. Kang: Three things. One, Pat’s versus Gino’s: I’ve heard the controversy. I know that there are loyalists. Believe it or not, DiNic’s Pork & Beef sandwich actually is comparable. Second of all, for cheese whiz, the right time, the right setting, does fill a need and it can be delicious. And then third, in terms of being a foodie, I just like to find people who create things and then try to enjoy and see what vision they have. And most times, the experience is not only with the food, but also meeting them in person.