Pros
The patients, medical workers such as physicians, nurses, and NPs
Cons
Regrettably, my experience within the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology at Duke University Health System was nothing short of disheartening. Despite the critical nature of our work in inpatient pediatric speech and language development, the department was marred by a pervasive atmosphere of racial discrimination and a disturbing lack of ethical leadership. Within the confines of the Speech Pathology and Audiology department, individuals of color were consistently subjected to a second-class status. The racial biases were not isolated incidents but rather systemic issues that tainted the professional environment. As an employee, it was deeply unsettling to witness how the very department entrusted with fostering communication skills in children failed to communicate respect and equality among its staff. The leadership within the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology demonstrated a shocking lack of integrity. Corruption was not an exception but rather a norm, as individuals in positions of power prioritized their own interests over the well-being of both employees and the children under our care. The ethical void at the top trickled down, fostering an environment where accountability and fairness were sorely lacking. It is particularly distressing to think that the department responsible for nurturing the language development of our youngest generation is plagued by such systemic issues. The irony is stark—the very individuals entrusted with the well-being of children are operating within an institution that appears to disregard the fundamental principles of fairness and equality. In conclusion, I caution those considering involvement with the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology at Duke University Health System to carefully assess the ethical climate within the organization. Despite the noble mission of supporting speech and language development in young children, the department's internal challenges may compromise its ability to fulfill this crucial role. There are undoubtedly other institutions where professionals can contribute to the well-being of children without being subjected to the toxic atmosphere that pervaded my experience at Duke.