Internal medicine GME coordinators share optimization strategies at national conference
The session focused on improving efficiency in medical education administration by addressing common coordination challenges and demonstrating practical solutions using digital tools.
By Michelle Ryan-Day
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USA Health Internal Medicine Residency Program GME coordinators recently presented on a national stage at Academic Internal Medicine Week 2026, held April 20 in Seattle. Hosted by the Alliance for Academic Internal Medicine, the conference is considered the premier gathering for faculty and staff in departments of internal medicine at medical schools and teaching hospitals across the U.S.
Graduate medical education coordinators Brant Weindorf and Kimberly Eardley delivered a workshop titled “Ctrl + Alt + Del the Stress: Optimizing Program Organization (OPO).”
The session focused on improving efficiency in medical education administration by addressing common coordination challenges and demonstrating practical solutions using digital tools such as Microsoft Office, Windows, and Adobe Acrobat. Attendees explored real-world scenarios, participated in interactive polling, and walked away with actionable strategies to streamline workflows and enhance program organization.
The response to the workshop exceeded their expectations, drawing a standing-room-only audience, and generating strong engagement throughout the session.
“Presenting in Seattle was such a dream,” Weindorf said. “Seeing an overcrowded room full of people wanting to hear what we had to say was an incredible feeling. The engagement and interactions we had with attendees made us so happy and proud of our hard work. OPO is applicable to everyone no matter what role or industry. It was so exciting to share my organization, efficiency, and optimization skills with AAIM. I cannot wait for the next opportunity!”
Eardley also noted the impact of the session on attendees.
“Presenting at AAIM Week 2026 was an incredible experience,” she said. “Having program administrators tell us it was the most interactive session of the conference that made all the preparation and stress completely worth it. Being able to share our tips and strategies with others not only sparked meaningful engagement, but made the entire experience feel truly surreal and rewarding. This is only the beginning of continuing to collaborate and elevate how we connect and learn from one another.”
In addition to the presenters, several members of the Internal Medicine Residency Program leadership attended the conference, including associate program directors Sakteesh Gurunathan, M.D., Haley Ballard, M.D., and Luke Mueller, M.D.; incoming chief residents Lauren Healey, M.D., Matthew Gribble, M.D., and Garrett Tobin, M.D.; and Clerkship Director Anna Foust, M.D.
The Alliance for Academic Internal Medicine (AAIM) promotes the advancement and professional development of its members in departments of internal medicine at medical schools and affiliated teaching hospitals who prepare the next generation of physicians and leaders through education, research, engagement, and collaboration.
