The Pediatrics Fellows at UTSW would like to formally petition the Pediatrics Department of UTSW to allow fellows to moonlight. We believe moonlighting would benefit trainees for the following reasons:

1. Moonlighting gives a unique opportunity for fellows to exercise critical and independent thinking skills
2. Moonlighting allows fellows to work with additional residents, attendings, and other members of a multidisciplinary team where they can teach trainees and learn from their colleagues
3. Moonlighting keeps the fellow involved in direct patient care helping them have an accurate assessment of the current gaps in patient care and opportunities for research/QI
4. Moonlighting supplements fellow income while continuing to allow for education and use of clinical skills which can improve fellow wellness and decrease stress. This is particularly helpful when expenses relating to training, employment, or unexpected life events arise.

We agree with the Pediatric division that additional moonlighting should not compromise the quality of fellow education or research. We believe that moonlighting can be done in a way that encourages mental freshness and fellow wellness while still allowing for high quality academic advancement.