“Millennials” and the Loss of Altruism
I graduated as a PA from St. John’s University in 1978. I have had the immense pleasure and honor of working in this capacity for 38 years—the first four in general surgery and the past 34 years (and counting) in cardiothoracic surgery. My decision to become a PA has been the most rewarding decision of my life.
I was intrigued by your editorial on altruism, as it has been a topic of discussion for quite a while among my senior colleagues. My service is comprised of many “millennials.” I have found it increasingly difficult to work with this new group for many reasons.
Our service is very technically and academically challenging; it can take years to master (I am a witness to that). When I started my career, I spent hours of my own time with senior preceptors (and without pay) in the operating room. I wanted to learn and was extremely ambitious to do so. I asked many, many questions and never assumed anything.
The millennials are not interested in doing that. Their work ethic and dedication to the profession is nonexistent. It has discouraged me from mentoring them.
Even though we believe in altruism, it does not matter. This group of individuals does not wish to learn from us; as a matter of fact, they believe they know more than we do and feel they can teach us a thing or two. We were always devoted to our institutions; they, by comparison, feel that the institution needs to be devoted to them. If not, they will leave their place of employment.
I am concerned. These are our successors in this profession who will be taking care of us in the future. Maybe the answer lies in a more regimented and careful screening process when interviewing candidates for PA/NP programs. Should work ethics courses and philanthropic activities be incorporated into the curriculum as measures of altruism?
We must be mindful of the fact that this may just be a sign of our times; many of these teachings begin in childhood at home, in school, and in social situations. I, for one, will not fall victim to the nonaltruistic world that we live in. I want my younger colleagues to understand the importance of giving back unselfishly to those in need. It makes for a better world to live in.
Linda Lecce-Bastian, RPA-C
Roslyn, NY