Dr. Stanciu: What training qualifications are required or desirable to assume a medical leadership role (post-residency fellowship, MBA, etc.)?
Dr. Penders: In addition to a foundation in evidence-based practices and knowledge of regulatory requirements, general leadership skills are probably the most important qualities for medical leadership. Hospitals are complex organizations with confusing reporting relationships. Negotiation skills and communication skills are critical to success. Because most modern health care organizations are well staffed with administrative personnel trained in business and finance, I would not suggest that an MBA is necessary or even important to a medical director’s success. Having said that, there are an increasing number of physicians assuming the role of chief executive officer in complex health care systems. In this case, MBA training will likely be advantageous.
I would suggest that the focus of training that occurs in MPH programs would provide more relevant tools for those in positions of medical leadership. Skills such as biostatistics and epidemiology provide those in such positions with the perspective required to understand the effectiveness of health care systems, and to relate to changes that might be beneficial to the populations they serve. A firm foundation in information systems and data analysis is becoming increasingly important as the payment system moves toward one that is value-based. Increasingly, health care systems decisions will be guided by the analysis of aggregated information gathered from electronic medical records.
Dr. Stanciu: What personal qualities makes a psychiatric physician well-suited for the role of a medical director?
Dr. Penders: Medical directors will confront a variety of difficult situations with colleagues, administrative staff, patients, and family members. A calm demeanor with an ability to reflect rather than react is important. As I previously mentioned, an ability to communicate, including strength as a listener, is another personality trait valued in this position.
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