Dr. Braden Fichter

When we decided to become emergency medicine physicians, what we really did was commit ourselves to a life of learning. Most of us wouldn’t have gotten to where we are now without maintaining the childlike curiosity that made us wonder how cells work, how the heart pumps and whatever other curiosities that led us to […]

It is cliché, but I really am living the dream. By being a firefighter traveling physician with US Acute Care Solutions (USACS), I have been able to make my own schedule and pursue some big dreams. For me, there are few things better than having the ability to get away. The problem many EM colleagues […]

We are charting new waters in the world of emergency medicine. New residency graduates have to deal with issues that our predecessors didn’t. Issues such as new legislation, the ACA, shifting pay structures, contract turnovers and the iPhone culture (with its inherent good and bad baggage) are just a few examples of the sea change […]

The field of emergency medicine is a constantly shifting environment. We are arguably the freshest specialty in the medical house. Collectively, our adaptability is challenged throughout the years from our inception as a niche specialty in the early years, all the way to the recent sweeping legislative changes. Our field encompasses an ever-broadening spectrum of […]

Telling my patients where I’m from has proven to be one of the most enjoyable aspects of my day-to-day interactions at work as a traveling ED physician. It usually generates a lot more questions than answers for them. Opening this conversation leads to a generally mixed response. It’s always the same emotions, surprise and excitement […]

The backs of NYC cabs are collectively one of the most interesting crossroads where the human condition exists in its raw form. Truths are told, inhibitions tend to be quite diminished and choices people make are unfettered by interference from whatever cultural norms exist. So, I think it was a fitting place to accept my […]

I remember talking to my residency chairman before I walked into the EMRA ACEP Job Fair and worrying because I really didn’t know what to expect. I wasn’t scared, but more like, “Who are all these people, and how am I supposed to tell in five minutes if I want to work for them or […]

What a great time it was finishing residency. I could finally answer my friends with a “yes, I’m done,” after the never-ending questions regarding my apparent lengthy pursuit of knowledge. While this is nice, I assure you that a certain financial institution is equally aware that you are graduating residency. The sharks are definitely lurking. […]

I have good news. There are not enough EM docs. Jobs are plentiful. Although this abundance of options slightly complicate your search, any complication is in your favor. With a little hard work in your day-to-day networking, you can (and should) really be in the driver’s seat. My tip to you – The American College of […]

There is a certain point in residency that we all come to where nearly every single thing you do is automatic. You see the same spot of gum on the ground on the way in. Your bagel and fruit are the same bagel and fruit you have eaten for about 96 weeks (it’s still good, […]