A growing need
“In its new health policy statement, the American College of Cardiology addresses the growing need for career flexibility as an important component of ensuring the well-being of the cardiovascular care workforce,” Harlan M. Krumholz, MD, SM, Harold H. Hines Jr. Professor of Medicine and professor in the Institute for Social and Policy Studies at Yale University, New Haven, Conn., told this news organization.
Courtesy Yale University
Dr. Harlan M. Krumholz
“The writing committee reviews opportunities for offering flexibility at all career levels to combat burnout and increase retention in the field, as well as proposes system, policy, and practice solutions to allow both men and women to emphasize and embrace work-life balance,” Dr. Krumholz said.
“The document provides pathways for cardiologists looking to pursue other interests or career transitions while maintaining excellence in clinical care,” he added. “Chief among these recommendations are flexible/part-time hours, leave and reentry policies, changes in job descriptions to support overarching cultural change, and equitable compensation and opportunities. The document is intended to be used as a guide for innovation in the cardiology workforce.”
‘Thoughtful and long overdue’
“This policy statement is thoughtful and long overdue,” Steven E. Nissen, MD, Lewis and Patricia Dickey Chair in Cardiovascular Medicine and professor of medicine at Cleveland Clinic, told this news organization.
“Career flexibility will allow cardiologists to fulfill family responsibilities while continuing to advance their careers. Successfully contributing to patient care and research does not require physicians to isolate themselves from all their other responsibilities,” Dr. Nissen added.
“I am pleased that the ACC has articulated the value of a balanced approach to career and family.”
Dr. Walsh, Dr. Krumholz, and Dr. Nissen report no relevant financial relationships.
A version of this article first appeared on Medscape.com.