A: I never really thought about it, but I’m glad I made the switch. There are days when it’s not all fun and games, but it’s very much been a learning opportunity. I’ve enjoyed it, and it has helped me become a better physician.
Q: How so?
A: I see the big picture. I can see what the administration wants, and I have an inside view to what hospital leadership thinks we can do better. I can share that with the other doctors. It helps us deliver better care knowing what the goals are for the hospital, our group, and the patients.
Q: What is your biggest challenge?
A: Having to be the “bad guy” in an administrative role.
Q: Have you learned any techniques that make that process easier?
A: It’s important, especially when you have to deal with conflict, to be open-minded and listen carefully to all sides of the situation. You have to give everyone a chance to speak their piece.
Q: You recently completed a Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Century Ride. What was that experience like?
A: It was like nothing I’d ever done before. I liked getting on my bike and riding a few miles, but I never thought I’d be able to ride 100 miles in one day. It was a life-changing experience, and I raised over $4,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, which felt wonderful.
Q: Did you learn anything that you can apply as a physician?
A: I learned that if you really put your mind to it, you can accomplish a lot. At times, when I’d be going up a difficult hill, I’d think, “This is really hard, but it’s nothing like being the parent of a kid with leukemia.”
Now, as I look at people who are suffering and sick, I remember that. No matter how hard it is for me, I’m not facing what they’re facing. TH
Mark Leiser is a freelance writer based in New Jersey.