Nonclinical careers: Insights from Rep. Tom Price, MD

As you complete your medical training and advance in your career as a physician, do you ever wonder where your career might take you beyond the exam room? In this new mini-series, we’re getting a glimpse of the jobs some physicians take on to support health care in the United States through nonclinical means. Rep. Tom Price, MD, was first elected to represent Georgia’s 6th district in November 2004. Prior to going to Washington, Dr. Price served four terms in the Georgia State Senate, two of which as minority whip. Dr. Price worked in private practice as an orthopaedic surgeon for nearly 20 years.  1.   What led you to run for public office? This was never my grand plan. However, at some point early in my career, I recognized that there were a whole lot of people in our state capitol and in Washington who were making decisions about what I could do for and with my patients who never practiced medicine or took care of a patient. That knowledge, and the concerns of my patients, led me into public service. These were non-medical people making medical decisions, and I thought that was not appropriate or needed.  2.   How did your clinical background equip you to take on your role as a member of Congress? The expertise and training we undergo as physicians, I believe, is ideally suited to public service. In the political arena, folks are most interested in someone who listens and appreciates the big picture. If that doesn’t describe doctors, I don’t kn...
Source: AMA Wire - Category: Journals (General) Authors: Source Type: news