She said "The cavalry is not coming. The cavalry is here. The cavalry is us!"
One of my mentors recently wrote, "For some reason, profitable organizations are seen as evil in today’s world. Sure, there are organizations that do bad things. Call me naive, but I think that’s the exception. I think the world is better when we have thriving, profitable organizations. In fact, thriving communities require it."
By Editor, Concierge Medicine Today
I have a unique seat on the bus in our healthcare culture to speak to Physicians from all walks of life. From early startups to late retirements, it's a fun job for the most part, pouring into Physicians' lives and sharing their thoughts on running a successful practice with you.
Once a quarter, we write a letter from the editor to our Physician readers at Concierge Medicine Today, echoing some of our guests' wisdom. It may include their wise sentiments, stories of woe, and the occasional [metaphorical] grab you by the shoulders peer-to-peer advice our Physician guests want to make sure you, our busy Physician readers, must know to be the best version of you FOR the world and your Patients.
Oddly enough, however, one theme trending in our weekly conversations with Physicians is "You have permission to be happy."
For some reason, happy Physicians are seen in our healthcare economy and burned-out culture as malfunctioning Physicians.
That's not okay with me.
I've even heard someone (a Physician) say from a stage to his colleagues, 'You should wear making no money as a badge of honor.'
That's not okay with me either.
One of my mentors recently wrote, "For some reason, profitable organizations are seen as evil in today’s world. Sure, there are organizations that do bad things. Call me naive, but I think that’s the exception. I think the world is better when we have thriving, profitable organizations. In fact, thriving communities require it."
I think he's right!
Dr. Nneka Unachukwu, a Physician and author of a new book, EntreMD said on our Podcast ... “The cavalry is not coming. The cavalry is here. The cavalry is us [i.e. Doctors]. We’re [i.e. Doctors] the ones that are going to rise to the occasion and effect the change we [i.e. Doctors] want to see.”
I think she's right!
Applying these two wise statements to you and your place in our healthcare culture today, I would say, "I think our communities, [your Patients], your practice, your co-workers, your family, etc., are happier, healthier and more engaged with you when you have a thriving, profitable medical practice that you enjoy entering each day."
Isn't it interesting that when we actively study, interview, and understand the life of a happy Physician, we find that most, if not all, have seven things in common. I often see this displayed in many of the Concierge Medicine practices I interview. They include:
Happy Doctors exhibit several key traits:
They steer clear of online soapboxes and don’t throw shade at others.
They seek to learn about topics beyond their expertise.
Their purpose extends beyond the exam room, contributing to community improvement.
They maintain good communication boundaries with colleagues and patients.
They aim to leave work on time when possible.
They read extensively on time management and human resources.
They recognize the impact of attitude on their day and relationships, often expressing gratitude through handwritten notes.
Now, permit me to tell you a quick story.
Once upon a time in my college days, I spent a couple of hot southern summers working in the President’s Office of my beloved alma mater in eastern Tennessee. From day one to this very moment, one unforgettable chat on that plush carpet by the waiting area when you walk in those double doors—complete with a fridge (regularly stocked with O.J. and sodas, of course!)—drove home the golden rule and that ‘inclusivity and personal touch save all!’
From the first day I worked at the President’s Office and a wonderful woman named Lena told me that …
“Around here, no matter who comes in this office, they are a VIP. Whether they’re a lost student with ripped up jeans or our largest donor, we offer them something to drink and a seat at the table.” ~L.B., President’s Office, circa 199-
I will always cherish the lessons I learned from Lena [and her incredible team!], Stephanie, Dr. C and of course Matt and Kevin! (who can forget Kevin! ) Even all these years and miles later, they occupy a special place in my heart, soul, and spirit. I am truly grateful for the wisdom they imparted, being able to check my AOL email and feel fortunate to call them friends, despite all the years and distance that have come from the passing of time! PS. Thank you, Lena for helping me and so many others all those years ago!
That experience framed for me and emphasized the importance of treating everyone with the same respect, dignity and regard, irrespective of their status—a lesson in the golden rule that continues to shape my interactions across various workplace settings. When was the last time we were at a healthcare facility that acted in the same way?
FOR YOU, FOR DOCTORS,
Editor-In-Chief, Concierge Medicine Today