BISMARCK — The Doctor of the Day program is a unique opportunity for physicians to connect with state legislators, local leaders, and government officials.
Orchestrated by the North Dakota Medical Association, Doctor of the Day is a volunteer program that provides primary care services to legislators at the Capitol starting at the beginning of the legislative session.
Dr. Justin Rosenau volunteered for Doctor of the Day on Feb. 2. He practices family medicine in Jamestown, North Dakota.
“I had at least one of the legislators stop by and ask me to check things out,” Rosenau said in an interview. “One or two other legislators stopped by to say hi and visit.”
While at the Capitol for Doctor of the Day, physicians are provided with an exam room filled with basic equipment and over-the-counter medication. Physicians are also encouraged to attend Capitol events and observe committee hearings.
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Dr. Monika Pothamsetti participated in Doctor of the Day on Feb. 8. She is a family practice resident doctor at the UND Center for Family Medicine in Bismarck.
“I’ve been able to sit in on a few committee hearings, Pothamsetti said. “It’s neat to have the opportunity to see the process firsthand.”
As volunteers, physicians are expected to serve at the Capitol from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Physicians do not need to practice family medicine to volunteer for Doctor of the Day; any medical specialty is welcome to volunteer for the program.
The Doctor of the Day program continues until the legislative session adjourns. To sign up for Doctor of the Day, visit ndmed.org .
Isabelle Ballalatak is a reporting intern with the North Dakota Newspaper Association.
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