Mentorship is a core component of cultivating leaders in healthcare, and the advice they share with young physicians may stick with them for the entirety of their careers.
Three physicians recently joined Becker’s to share the most important advice they received from a physician leader or mentor and why it matters today.
Editor’s note: Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length.
Philip Levin, MD. Chief Medical Officer at UCLA Health Santa Monica (Calif.) Medical Center: One of the most impactful insights I received was the reminder that if you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem. This reinforced the importance of taking ownership rather than remaining passive in the face of challenges. Also, consistently acknowledge and credit team members for the ideas and solutions they contribute, rather than taking credit for yourself.
Another key lesson was the importance of being present and engaged in hospital committee meetings. By participating, you can advocate for your department when questions or decisions arise that affect your group.
Finally, I learned the value of reliability and initiative — completing assignments when tasked and approaching leadership not just with questions, but with thoughtful, potential solutions. This demonstrates accountability and a commitment to problem-solving.
John McMaster, MD. Clinical Faculty in Emergency Medicine at Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (Wichita): Put the patient first. Opportunity and success are achievable by all if you combine a good work ethic with learning and education. As a physician mentor, you need to demonstrate humbleness, trust and belongingness to those that you teach and treat.
Scott Needle, MD. Chief Medical Officer of Woodland (Calif.) Clinic Medical Group: Some years ago, I asked a mentor how he defined successful leadership. He said, “Someone who can execute well with little drama.” True leadership isn’t about having the spotlight. It’s about delivering results that make things better for others.
James Razcek, MD. Family Physician (Bangor, Maine): Early in my leadership career as a family medicine residency director, I asked a long-time director what one piece of advice would he give me. He stated, “Never be afraid of being fired from your position. You must have the courage to articulate and stand up for what is right regarding patient care and/or your training program, regardless of the consequences.”
