How physicians can craft meaningful careers in medicine | THE BEST OF The Podcast by KevinMD

Welcome to?THE BEST OF The Podcast by KevinMD! Highlights and links to full episodes from the only daily medical podcast. 15 minutes a day, 7 days a week. CME for every episode.

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Finding purpose: How physicians can craft meaningful careers in medicine

From clinician to leader: How to get involved in hospital administration

We all want to have a say in the way healthcare is delivered and administered. But for many of us, the road to having more of a voice in these issues can seem daunting. So what kind of advice do I have for fellow physicians who want to follow in my footsteps and have more of a say in administrative matters?

First and foremost, I would encourage them to get involved with the hospital. Many physicians today have chosen to distance themselves from administrative activities at the hospital, but in order to have a say in the way healthcare is administered, it's essential to be an active participant in these activities.

One way to get involved is by chairing a committee or taking on leadership roles such as chief of staff or hospital board member. By demonstrating a willingness to lead and engage with hospital administration, physicians can build the credibility and influence needed to have a real impact on the way healthcare is delivered and administered.

It's important to remember that as healthcare providers we are not only treating patients, but also playing a role in shaping the healthcare system. And that we can only do that by being part of it and engaging with it.

The power of listening: How to be a more effective clinician

We have a lot of knowledge and experience under our belts, which can be a great asset in helping us diagnose and treat our patients. But it can also lead to a tendency to jump to conclusions, particularly when it comes to assessing a patient's condition.

That's why one of the most important things we can do as clinicians is to truly listen to our patients and their concerns. Rather than assuming we know what's going on within the first few seconds of the visit, it's important to take a step back and listen to what the patient has to say.

This is especially important in my role as a CMIO, where I work with other physicians and healthcare providers. Even when I know who the physician is or have a preconceived idea of what the issue might be, it's crucial that I put those feelings on hold and truly listen to what they have to say before making any assumptions.

In the early days of my career, I learned the hard way how important it is to hear both sides of a story before making a determination. It not only helped me become better practitioner but also a better listener and problem solver.

David E. Danhauer, MD is a pediatrician and former CMIO.

?? FULL EPISODE →?https://www.kevinmdpodcast.com/finding-purpose-how-physicians-can-craft-meaningful-careers-in-medicine/

Healing hearts: the power of authentic connection in medicine

Finding balance in healthcare: the importance of healthy detachment from outcomes

We are trained to do everything in our power to help our patients heal and recover. And while this drive to make a difference is commendable, it's important to recognize that sometimes the outcome is beyond our control and that can be hard to accept.

That's why learning how to develop a healthy detachment from outcomes is crucial. This means accepting that we can only do so much and that we need to choose where we can have the greatest impact. It's also about knowing our own limits and not giving more of ourselves than we are able to.

In healthcare, getting caught up in the idea that we can solve every problem and fix every ailment is easy. But the reality is that some outcomes are beyond our control. By developing a healthy detachment from outcomes, we can make better decisions about how we invest our time and energy, and avoid burnout.

This doesn't mean giving up on patients or not caring about their outcomes, it's about a balance between caring and being realistic. It's important to approach healthcare with a balance of compassion and detachment, that is how we can be effective and sustainable as health care providers.

The lesson in backing off: Why taking a step back can be crucial for physician wellness

We are trained to work hard and to do everything in our power to help our patients. But what happens when the work becomes too much? What happens when the weight of the responsibilities feels too heavy to bear?

I think of a surgeon I once had in my clinic struggling with deciding to leave medicine. He had always lived by the family motto that "the hardest path is the right one." But as I spoke with a therapist friend about this, she pointed out that for many physicians, not working as hard can be just as difficult.

Learning to let go of some responsibilities, to put our time and attention elsewhere, and to recognize that there are different ways of contributing can be a hard lesson. Especially when we have been trained to believe that working hard is the only way to make a difference.

But I think it's important for us to remind ourselves that there are different ways to contribute, and that taking a step back and finding a balance in our work can be just as important as working harder.

Elizabeth LaRusso is a psychiatrist.

?? FULL EPISODE → https://www.kevinmdpodcast.com/healing-hearts-the-power-of-authentic-connection-in-medicine/

How people of faith can respond to our broken health system

Embracing faith in healthcare: Why it's essential for effective patient care

We are often trained to focus solely on the physical aspects of a patient's well-being. But what many in the medical community may not realize is that neglecting the spiritual dimension of a person's health can actually lead to poorer outcomes.

When individuals of faith become actively involved in issues related to health and healthcare, they bring a unique perspective and set of values that can greatly benefit both the patient and the healthcare team. They understand the importance of addressing not just the physical needs of the patient, but also their emotional and spiritual needs.

When we care for the spiritual component of life, we create an holistic and inclusive approach to healthcare. We are showing that the patient is not only a physical body but a soul too. This kind of care is what makes people trust the healthcare team and trust their physicians.

We need to stop pushing back against the integration of faith and healthcare and start embracing the positive impact it can have on patients' well-being.

The power of asking: How primary care doctors can address spiritual needs

It's important that we take the time to address our patients' spiritual needs, in addition to their physical health. But where do we start?

One way to begin is by simply asking the patient about what brings them joy and where they find strength in life. This allows for an open conversation about the patient's beliefs and values, rather than imposing our own perspective as physicians.

Additionally, asking about a patient's support system, such as family and community, can provide insight into the patient's spiritual needs and how they may be addressed.

It's essential for physicians to remember that our patients are not just a collection of symptoms and vital signs, they are whole human beings with unique experiences, values and beliefs. By addressing the spiritual dimension of their health, we can provide more comprehensive and holistic care.

G. Scott Morris is a physician and ordained minister.

?? FULL EPISODE →?https://www.kevinmdpodcast.com/how-people-of-faith-can-respond-to-our-broken-health-system/

A physician shows incredible strength and resilience in an emotional moment

Why radiologists are the unsung heroes of health care

As a radiologist, my job is to diagnose and interpret medical images to help physicians make informed treatment decisions for their patients. But in order to do this effectively, communication and collaboration with other members of the healthcare team is crucial.

That's why we don't just sit in silence, staring at screens all day - we actually do enjoy talking to people! We love having conversations with clinicians to gather the information we need to provide the best possible care for our patients.

In this field, a picture is worth a thousand words, and that's why we spend our time interpreting medical images with precision and accuracy. But even the most detailed image can't tell the whole story. That's where communication comes in - by talking to clinicians, we can better understand the patient's history and current symptoms, which allows us to provide more detailed and relevant diagnoses.

So next time you see a radiologist, don't be afraid to strike up a conversation - we're always happy to chat and share our expertise!

The human touch in radiology: Going beyond the scan

As a radiologist, I have the unique opportunity to not only analyze medical images, but also interact with patients and their families. And it's not just during business hours - often times, I find myself scanning children at night, when they're most likely to be asleep and still.

During these encounters, I'm reminded that my patients are not just cases or numbers - they are humans, with their own stories and experiences. Some may have been through traumatic events such as accidents or the loss of loved ones. That's why I always make a conscious effort to approach them with empathy and understanding.

I strive to communicate in a way that is both professional and accessible, using layman's terms and making sure the patient and their family fully understand what is happening. I also try to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for them, and am aware of their emotions and concerns.

Being a radiologist is not just about reading images, it's also about being a compassionate healthcare provider and connecting with people on a human level.

Houda Bouhmam is a radiology resident.

?? FULL EPISODE →?https://www.kevinmdpodcast.com/a-physician-shows-incredible-strength-and-resilience-in-an-emotional-moment/

Physicians' real problem isn’t burnout

The physician shortage: What are we doing with the time we have?

As a society, it's clear that we are facing a shortage of physicians. But have you ever stopped to think about how we are utilizing the time of the physicians we do have? It seems that instead of focusing on patient care and hospital work, doctors are being pulled in a million different directions. From electronic health records to physician order entry, it feels like the administrative tasks are never-ending. It's important that we find a way to streamline these processes and allow doctors to spend more time with their patients, where they truly belong.

The sacred bond between physicians and patients

The bond between physicians and patients is the foundation of good health and medical decision making. It is a sacred relationship that should be the focus of everything we do in the healthcare industry. As physicians, we are valuable assets, but our patients are even more precious. We must always remember to handle this relationship with care and respect, and never lose sight of the importance of the patient's well-being.?

Reeta Achari is a neurologist.

?? FULL EPISODE →?https://www.kevinmdpodcast.com/physicians-real-problem-isnt-burnout/

Who are we losing on the medical education journey?

Feeling like an imposter in medical school? You're not alone.

Congratulations to all the future doctors out there who just got accepted into med school! Remember, you are capable of finishing and achieving your dreams. It's important to surround yourself with a supportive network and never be afraid to ask for help. Medical school can be tough, but it's normal to struggle and feel like an imposter at times. Keep pushing through and remember that you belong here.

Medical school success tip: Don't just memorize, understand

Are you striving to become a memorization pro and earn a spot in medical school? Well, let me tell you, once you get there, the amount of information you'll need to manage and comprehend can be overwhelming. That's why it's important to not just memorize facts and figures, but to truly understand and grasp the concepts. This means unlearning the habit of simply regurgitating information from PowerPoints and instead diving deeper into the material to develop a more profound understanding. Trust me, this approach will not only help you ace those exams, but also allow you to confidently answer questions you haven't even seen yet. So don't just memorize, strive for a deeper understanding and you'll be an absolutely fabulous medical student.?

Heidi Chumley is dean, Ross University School of Medicine.

?? FULL EPISODE →?https://www.kevinmdpodcast.com/who-are-we-losing-on-the-medical-education-journey/

Don't let your BMI mislead you: the risks of skinny fat

Skinny fat, a term used to describe normal weight individuals who still carry excess fat and are at risk for the same diseases as those who are obese. Don't let your BMI deceive you - even if you're within a "healthy" range, undiagnosed skinny fat can still put you at risk for diseases like cancer, diabetes, and gallbladder disease. It's important to focus on both weight and body composition to ensure overall health.?

Marc Nelson is a scientific researcher.

?? FULL EPISODE →?https://www.kevinmdpodcast.com/why-body-type-standards-are-misleading-in-assessing-health/

Negotiating employment contracts: How to prioritize your battles

When it comes to negotiating employment contracts, it's essential to prioritize your battles and choose your fights wisely. As a doctor, I understand the temptation to want to make changes to every single word and section, but it's important to focus on the most crucial aspects and stand your ground on those issues. By narrowing your focus and staying true to your priorities, you'll have a better chance of achieving the outcomes you desire.

Amanda B. Hill is a health care attorney.

?? FULL EPISODE →?https://www.kevinmdpodcast.com/top-questions-doctors-ask-health-care-attorneys/

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