4 lessons healthcare leaders can learn from military deployment

by Jacqueline Thompson When you think of a military commander, you likely picture someone in a uniform ready to take action. When you think of a physician, you might envision someone wearing a white lab jacket--completely calm. Outwardly, the two roles seem to be opposites of one another, but you might be surprised to discover that military and medical leaders have many skills and values in common. During my deployment to Iraq with the U.S. Army Reserve Medical Corps (ARMC), I learned several important lessons that civilian medical leaders can apply within their hospital or practice. 1. Team is key: A cohesive team is pertinent in a hospital and military setting. Whether in a hospital or combat zone, teams must be ready for the worst scenario, and the staff needs training, knowledge and cohesion during difficult situations so they can work together. Regardless of hierarchy or chain of command, an efficient and tactful team demands the highest level of support from every team member, including administrators. Lower-level personnel cannot just be faces to those at the top. Leaders must understand the dynamics of the people in lower ranks to provide proper supervision, motivation and support. 2. Know your role: Hospitals can be chaotic. Patients flood in, and stress levels are high. A combat zone is no different. With never-ending rushes of stress and chaos, the only way to truly counter the turmoil is through flawless order. Everyone must know his or her role and eac...
Source: hospital impact - Category: Health Managers Authors: Source Type: blogs