How will working with physicians change in the future?

1 Technology and telehealth

One of the most obvious changes in working with physicians is the increasing use of technology and telehealth. From electronic health records to remote consultations, technology can enhance the quality, efficiency, and accessibility of care. However, it can also create new challenges, such as privacy, security, and interoperability issues. To work well with physicians in the digital age, you need to be familiar with the tools and platforms they use, respect their preferences and boundaries, and adapt to different modes of communication.

2 Teamwork and interprofessionalism

Another change in working with physicians is the growing emphasis on teamwork and interprofessionalism. As health care becomes more complex and diverse, physicians need to collaborate with other professionals from different disciplines, backgrounds, and settings. This means that you need to understand the roles and responsibilities of each team member, appreciate their perspectives and contributions, and coordinate your actions and goals. To work well with physicians in a team-based environment, you need to be flexible, respectful, and supportive.

3 Leadership and accountability

A third change in working with physicians is the shifting expectations of leadership and accountability. As health care systems undergo transformation and reform, physicians need to take on more leadership and management responsibilities, such as quality improvement, patient safety, and resource allocation. They also need to be more accountable for their performance, outcomes, and ethics. This means that you need to follow their guidance and direction, provide them with feedback and input, and hold them accountable for their actions and decisions. To work well with physicians in a leadership role, you need to be reliable, proactive, and honest.

4 Diversity and inclusion

A fourth change in working with physicians is the increasing diversity and inclusion of the physician workforce. As more physicians from different genders, races, ethnicities, cultures, and backgrounds enter the profession, they bring new perspectives, experiences, and skills to health care. They also face new challenges, such as discrimination, bias, and stereotypes. To work well with physicians from diverse backgrounds, you need to be aware of your own assumptions and prejudices, respect their differences and similarities, and celebrate their strengths and achievements.

5 Education and innovation

A fifth change in working with physicians is the constant need for education and innovation. As health care advances and changes rapidly, physicians need to keep up with the latest evidence, best practices, and innovations. They also need to share their knowledge and skills with others, such as students, colleagues, and patients. To work well with physicians in a learning environment, you need to be curious, open-minded, and willing to learn. You also need to be creative, resourceful, and willing to innovate.

6 Wellness and resilience

A sixth change in working with physicians is the growing concern for wellness and resilience. As physicians face increasing demands, pressures, and stressors, they are at risk of burnout, compassion fatigue, and moral distress. They also need to balance their personal and professional lives, cope with uncertainty and change, and find meaning and purpose in their work. To work well with physicians in a wellness context, you need to be empathetic, supportive, and compassionate. You also need to take care of your own wellness and resilience, and seek help when needed.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?