Future Family Medicine Physician Eager to Help With Coronavirus Response

Megan Kelly is anxious to continue her medical training in June with the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix Family Medicine Residency program.

“Right now our Arizona hospital systems have not stated that they need our immediate help, but as we have seen over the past few weeks, things are constantly evolving,” Kelly said. “In the meantime, I wanted to help with other initiatives in the community that don't necessarily involve direct patient care, but are still efforts to help with the COVID-19 response.”

She began volunteering April 13 with the statewide COVID-19 hotline, where she answers calls from the community that address health concerns and coronavirus-related symptoms.

Kelly, who grew up in Phoenix and graduated from Notre Dame Preparatory High School, said her family supports her decision to forego commencement with the rest of the Class of 2020. “They understand the oath that we take to be a physician and the call to serve, especially during this time of immense need.” 

She said that starting her residency training during a global pandemic involves many unknowns, but she is ready to get to work.

Kelly credited the College of Medicine – Phoenix with recognizing some students’ requests to begin serving immediately.

“They listened to our needs and were instrumental in recognizing that our community may need additional members of the work force in the coming weeks,” she said.