The Importance of Physician Leadership

There is a plethora of evidence that exists that documents the positive impact physicians can have when placed in leadership roles. One such illustration comes from a study published in 2019 in Health Care Management Review that concludes, “Large hospital systems led by physicians in 2015 received higher U.S. News & World Report ratings and bed usage rates than did hospitals led by nonphysicians, with no differences in financial performance. This study suggests that physician leaders may possess skills, qualities, or management approaches that positively affect hospital quality and the value of care delivered.”

 

One of my goals during the coming year is for the DCMA to create additional leadership opportunities for our physician members. We already have instructional opportunities through our Physician Leadership Academy and a unique partnership with Atlantis University to offer more formal education through their mini-MBA program.

 

We also have expanded organizational opportunities through our various committees and delegations that engage elected officials, public health officers, and other community organizations. These are great opportunities for physicians to begin to expand their influence and connections as well as drive reform in our healthcare system.

 

I strongly believe that we must encourage physicians to be proactive in the healthcare system in order to improve efficiencies and create a better work environment so we can provide high-quality service to our patients.

 

Physicians are the best advocates for healthcare improvements. In order to drive change and reach our objectives it is necessary that physicians speak with one voice. The DCMA is happy to be the epicenter of this movement.

 

I call upon my colleagues to reach out and see what change we can deliver together.