Following the presentation at Landspítali, the “Come North” event was held. SAk’s Education and Research Department organizes the event in collaboration with the Healthcare Institution of North Iceland (HSN). It gave doctors preparing to begin their foundation training a chance to learn more about the two institutions and the training and career opportunities available in North Iceland. Light refreshments were served, and attendees had an opportunity to talk with doctors who work and train at SAk and HSN.

Hannes Petersen, director of foundation training, and Harpa Snædal, senior physician for junior doctors, have taken part in the presentation year after year. This year they were joined by Guðni Arnar Guðnason, head of internal medicine, and resident doctors Kamilla Dóra Jónsdóttir and Guðrún Anna Halldórsdóttir.

“It matters a great deal to us that doctors preparing for foundation training get a clear picture of what SAk has to offer. Here, doctors can gain a wide range of clinical experience, work closely with experienced professionals and take an active part in the hospital’s work,” says Hannes Petersen.

Harpa says that a strong learning environment and effective supervision are among SAk’s greatest strengths as a training institution.

“We want young doctors to see SAk as a place where they receive good supervision and have room to grow professionally. The close working relationships here, and the strong collaboration between professions and specialties, are among the hospital’s strengths and help create a good learning environment,” says Harpa.

The resident doctors in the group also shared their own experiences of training and working at SAk, giving prospective foundation doctors a glimpse into the day-to-day work of young doctors at the hospital.

“One advantage of working here is that you get to take an active role in clinical work early on, follow a wide variety of cases, and participate in procedures and other tasks. These learning opportunities are readily available, and you have the chance to take on responsibility with strong support. And, of course, living in Akureyri is a major plus: everything North Iceland has to offer is close by,” says Kamilla Dóra Jónsdóttir, a junior doctor.