Podcast Summary
Exploring Opportunities Beyond Clinical Practice in Medicine: A medical career offers diverse roles beyond clinical practice such as education, research, advocacy, and health system leadership.
Learning from this conversation with Dr. Michael Anderson is that a medical career offers various opportunities beyond being a clinician. Dr. Anderson, a pediatric critical care physician, health care executive, child advocate, and disaster response expert, has had an impressive career that spans from leading children's hospitals to advising government leaders. He emphasizes the importance of being open to different roles and experiences in medicine. Dr. Anderson's journey started with serving on the admissions committee at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, which ignited his passion for healthcare leadership. He then became the vice president and chief medical officer at University Hospitals Health System in Cleveland, leading to the presidency of Benioff Children's Hospital at UCSF. Currently, he is a senior advisor to the assistant secretary for preparedness and response at the Department of Health and Human Services. Dr. Anderson's advice to premedical students is to explore various roles in medicine, as a career in medicine can lead to becoming an educator, researcher, advocate, or health system leader, among others. His story is a testament to the vast opportunities available in the medical field.
Reflecting on career aspirations and the importance of being a good doctor before leadership roles: Reflect on career goals, seek mentors, and utilize clinical expertise to make a positive impact in leadership roles
Having a clear plan and identifying mentors are crucial steps for achieving professional goals. The speaker, a doctor with a background in intensive care and hospital leadership, shared how a chance conversation with a colleague led her to reflect on her career aspirations and the importance of being a good doctor before taking on leadership roles. She emphasized that clinical knowledge and experience are valuable assets for leaders in healthcare. Later in her career, she transitioned from her role at UCSF to consult for the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response during the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout her journey, she emphasized the importance of having a plan, seeking mentors, and utilizing clinical expertise to make a positive impact in leadership roles.
Leading Pediatric Efforts in COVID-19 and Future Public Health Emergencies: Monoclonal antibodies save lives during COVID-19 and strategic planning is crucial for future public health emergencies. Dr. Unger, a pediatrician and public health leader, encourages the next generation to be prepared.
Dr. Unger, the Assistant Surgeon General and Acting Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is leading efforts in pediatric issues related to COVID-19, therapeutics, and preparing for future public health emergencies. Dr. Unger highlighted the importance of monoclonal antibodies in reducing hospitalizations and saving lives during the pandemic. He also emphasized the need for strategic planning to improve the public health response system for future emergencies. Dr. Unger shared his experience as a pediatrician and chief medical officer, using various skills from communication to science to build bridges. He encouraged the next generation of physicians to be better prepared for public health emergencies. Despite being in Washington D.C., Dr. Unger finds joy in visiting the city and returning to his family in Cleveland, Ohio. A surprising fact about Dr. Unger is that he was once an intensive care pediatric attending, where he helped nervous residents and students feel at ease in the unit.
Exploring unexpected paths in medicine: Pursue a compassionate and dedicated career in medicine, then explore various specialties and career paths like research, teaching, or clinical work, touching lives in unexpected ways.
A career in medicine offers numerous opportunities for personal growth and making a difference in people's lives. The speaker shared her unique experiences, from interacting with rock stars to working in a children's hospital and being a funeral director's assistant. These experiences showcased the unexpected paths one can take in medicine and the joy and compassion that comes with it. The speaker emphasized the importance of being a compassionate and dedicated doctor first, and then exploring various specialties and career paths, such as research or teaching. The medical field is vast, and one can touch lives in various ways, from conducting clinical trials to performing heart surgery for children. Overall, the conversation underscores the significance of pursuing a career in medicine and the endless possibilities it brings.
Advocating for Patients and Leading in Healthcare: Physicians can advocate for patients, especially those without a political voice, and can lead in healthcare at various levels. MDs can also contribute to research.
Physicians have a crucial role beyond just providing clinical care. They can also be advocates for patients, particularly for those who lack a political voice like children. Advocacy can be a full-time commitment, and there are opportunities to do so at various levels, from local to federal government. Additionally, physician leadership is essential in the healthcare industry, and there are resources available to help doctors develop the necessary skills. Furthermore, the perception that only PhD scientists or those with an MD and PhD can be researchers is incorrect. MDs can and do contribute significantly to research, and it can be a rewarding part of their career. Ultimately, the diversity of opportunities within the medical field allows individuals to find what resonates with them and bring joy to their career. The speaker's decision to pursue pediatrics was a fulfilling one, as he had personal experience with the field and a passion for advocating for children's health.
Effective communication in pediatrics: Empathy, compassion, focus, and interviewing skills are essential for successful pediatricians. Pre-med students should prioritize both academic and interpersonal skill development for future leadership roles.
Being a successful pediatrician involves not only mastering the technical aspects of medicine, but also effective communication and interviewing skills. During her college years, the speaker made a brilliant decision to take an interviewing course alongside her organic chemistry studies. This choice equipped her with empathy, compassion, focus, and the ability to get information and get her message out as a physician and advocate. She emphasizes the importance of bringing your best every day as a student and physician, as the health and wellbeing of future patients depend on it. The speaker encourages young pre-med students to focus on both their academic and interpersonal skills to prepare for leadership roles in medicine.
Beyond science: Developing well-rounded undergraduates: Focus on personal growth, take courses in diverse areas, and gain leadership skills through campus or community organizations to prepare for health system leadership roles.
During undergraduate studies, it's essential to focus on becoming a well-rounded individual beyond just excelling in science courses. This includes taking courses in areas of personal interest and getting involved in campus or community organizations to develop leadership skills and learn from different leadership styles. As a health system leader, the primary concerns are ensuring patient safety, managing fiscal strains, and exploring innovative ways to improve healthcare services. Engaged leadership and understanding the day-to-day operations are crucial for maintaining a safe and effective healthcare environment.
Balancing innovation and safety in healthcare leadership: Be an excellent doctor first, consider an MBA for leadership roles later, prioritize safety, and explore employer coverage options.
A healthcare leadership role involves a balance between innovation and safety, with safety always being the top priority. Dr. X, a healthcare leader, emphasized the importance of being an excellent doctor first before pursuing an MBA to further one's career in leadership roles. The MBA can be beneficial for those who want to make a positive impact in healthcare and lead as a CMO or chairperson, but it's important to have a solid foundation in medical knowledge first. The MBA can be pursued later in one's career when they have more experience and gray hair, making the learning experience more enjoyable and challenging. Additionally, it's worth exploring if an employer may cover the cost of an MBA for dedicated employees. Lastly, the upcoming medical application cycle may continue to be virtual, so students should stay informed and prepare accordingly.
Virtual interviews offer advantages despite anxiety: Applicants can practice, have notes, and save costs with virtual interviews, despite challenges in adapting to the lack of in-person interaction and body language cues.
While remote interviews through platforms like Zoom may cause anxiety for applicants due to the lack of in-person interaction and body language cues, there are advantages to this format. These advantages include the ability to practice with friends and have notes readily available during the interview. Additionally, with the increasing shift to virtual interactions due to the pandemic, it's essential for applicants to become comfortable with this format. While there may be challenges, such as adjusting to the lack of nonverbal cues, with preparation and practice, applicants can make the most of virtual interview opportunities. Furthermore, the cost savings associated with virtual interviews may make the application process more accessible for some students. Overall, it's important for applicants to approach virtual interviews with a positive attitude and a willingness to adapt to the new format.
Gaining campus experience and building professional skills despite financial challenges: Prepare thoroughly, be adaptable, and show empathy during professional interviews and public speaking engagements.
Pre-med students may face financial challenges when applying to multiple medical schools for in-person visits, but there are advantages to gaining campus experience and building professional skills. Dr. Anderson shared his experience of using university hospitals' TV studios to prepare for live interviews, which saved him time and resources. He also advised assuming good intentions and communicating openly if technical difficulties occur during interviews. While this advice is not specific to pre-med students, it can be valuable for anyone navigating professional interviews or public speaking engagements. Overall, Dr. Anderson emphasized the importance of preparation, adaptability, and empathy in professional settings.
Trusting healthcare professionals during uncertain times: Maintain a strong relationship with your doctor, value their expertise, and trust their insights during uncertain times.
During uncertain times, it's crucial to trust the expertise of healthcare professionals and maintain a strong relationship with your physician. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has brought healthcare providers into the spotlight, emphasizing the importance of science and the role of medical experts. While it can be challenging for doctors to communicate complex information in short sound bites, their opinions and insights are valuable. Unfortunately, healthcare providers have faced increased criticism and skepticism, which is unfortunate given their dedication and sacrifices during this marathon crisis. The next generation of physicians must continue to support each other and recognize the emotional toll of the profession. Ultimately, trusting your doctor and valuing their knowledge and expertise are essential for navigating the complexities of healthcare during challenging times.
Trusting in Science and Experts During Crisis: During crises, it's essential to trust medical professionals and experts, listen to facts, and acknowledge the vital roles medical schools and state governments play in preparedness and response.
During times of crisis, the importance of trusting in science and the expertise of medical professionals cannot be overstated. Dr. Anderson, a medical professional with extensive experience, emphasized the need for the public to listen to experts and not be swayed by misinformation. He also highlighted the crucial role medical schools and state governments play in disaster preparedness and response. Despite concerns about the rapid development and distribution of vaccines, Dr. Anderson expressed optimism about the future of medicine and the rising interest in medical and nursing education. He encouraged premeds to celebrate science, stand tall for facts, and be proud advocates for the scientific community in the ongoing fight against the pandemic.
Continuing social distancing and masking beyond March 2021: Despite the pandemic easing, social distancing and masking should be continued. Cherish undergrad experience, stay diligent, and enjoy the journey towards becoming a physician.
Social distancing and masking measures are important to continue practicing beyond March 2021, as the pandemic is not over yet. Another key point is to make the most of the undergraduate experience and cherish the opportunity to grow into a well-rounded person, with the hope of becoming a physician in the future. Dr. Anderson emphasized the importance of remaining diligent and enjoying the journey, despite the pressures of medical school applications. Overall, the conversation provided inspiration and instruction for listeners, highlighting the importance of perseverance and staying focused on personal and professional goals.
