How Music Heals and Fosters Connection at the Bedside and Beyond

About the Talk

Dr. Sydelle Ross will share her story of using music to care for herself while battling burnout early in her career. Based on her experiences in community settings, she will discuss the ways in which music can be used to facilitate interpersonal connection, affirm personhood, and foster spiritual connection.

About the Speaker

Dr. Sydelle Ross is an anesthesiologist and pain specialist who practices hospice and palliative medicine. Dr. Ross received her medical degree from the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University. She completed her residency in anesthesiology at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia Campus, and later completed fellowship training in pain medicine at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. As a classical vocalist, Dr. Ross incorporates music into her medical practice as a way of providing comfort to patients who are living with life-threatening illnesses. She also harnesses the power of music to mitigate the effects of burnout syndrome, thereby promoting resilience and improved self-efficacy among healthcare workers. Dr. Ross is a member of the Music and Medicine Committee of the American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA), and is also a member of the International Association of Music and Medicine. She is a physician contributor to the book entitled Artists Remaking Medicine: The Practice of Imagination and the Power to Create a Better Healthcare Future.