> Training Day continued
of emergency medicine. A graduate of the
Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs,
CO, he served as a budget officer in
Germany, Saudi Arabia and the United
States before deciding to attend medical
school. After graduating from the University
“For me the key is to
get enough sleep,
because at Scott &
White you always
have to bring your
‘A’ game.”
— Dr. Spohn
22
THE CATALYST Spring 09
of Tennessee College of Medicine, he
interned at Wilford Hall Air Force Base in
San Antonio, where he and his family
developed a love for Central Texas.
He was a flight surgeon for two busy
Air Force commands at the Air Force
Academy before embarking on a civilian
medical career. Dr. Spohn considered
residencies at several prestigious programs
but chose Scott & White because
“everything clicked here—the quality of
the people and the quality of the place.”
Commitment, preparation,
education
As a third-year resident, Dr. Spohn works
four 12-hour shifts each week. As chief
resident, he supervises the other 30
residents who serve in the emergency
room and works on hospital committees
to improve efficiency and customer
service. He also led the recent transition to
electronic medical records, which speeds
up communication and reduces the
reliance on paper.
Dr. Spohn’s off-duty time is devoted to
his wife Judith, and daughters Sarah and
Lauren. Although he has been an athlete
all his life, he has trouble fitting in favorite
pastimes like running, golf, racquetball
and basketball.
“There’s not time for much beside my
residency and family,” says Dr. Spohn.
“For me the key is to get enough sleep,
because at Scott & White you always have
to bring your ‘A’ game. Working in the ER
is like standing in front of a fire hose for
12 hours and having no way to control
what comes out or how fast. You never
know what you will see.” ■