From the President’s Desk: Leaders by nature

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Some people fear that reinforcing our importance in medicine is too self-promotional. But it is nothing to be ashamed of. Promoting what we have to offer as a specialty is good for our patients.

The COVID-19 pandemic has offered us a unique opportunity to take a seat at the leadership table. It put pathologists at the vanguard, reminding policymakers, patients, and other clinicians about the importance of laboratory testing and the critical need for accurate results.

It is time for all of us to consider how we can build on our skills as pathologists to take on leadership roles. I see leadership as an exercise in generosity. Modeling compassion and excellence, and treating the people we work with in the laboratory with courtesy, kindness, and respect—that’s being a leader. Learning to identify your team’s talents and going out of your way to recognize their success are incredibly powerful tools for any leader.

You can also volunteer to take on more responsibility. Most hospitals and health systems are looking for physicians to be involved in their executive, credentialing, and infection control committees, and the various hospital quality committees as well as utilization review initiatives. Just being willing to participate is a huge first step. If you are in a private practice group, you can volunteer your time to be on the board of your private practice or to participate in peer review or mentoring newer associates. Another great option is engaging with community organizations to serve on panels to share factual information about COVID-19 vaccines and fill other public health needs.

However you do it, I encourage you to find ways to explore your own leadership potential. Our training as pathologists is an incredible foundation that has given us so much to offer our patients and our clinical colleagues.

As we close out 2021, I hope that you and yours find time to enjoy this holiday season. For my family, that means getting together, eating a big meal, watching favorite movies, and enjoying each other’s company. I wish the same spirit of togetherness for all of you.

Dr. Volk welcomes communication from CAP members. Write to her at president@cap.org.