Ep. 12 Physician Wellness with Dr. Angela Chaudhari

In this episode, Drs. Amy Park and Mark Hoffman welcome Dr. Angela Chaudhari, Chief of Gynecology and Gynecologic Surgery at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, to share her experience promoting a culture of physician wellness as the Director of the P2P Network for Physician Peer Support. --- SHOW NOTES Dr. Chaudhari discusses how her inspiration to advocate for physician wellness began when she herself was experiencing feelings of burnout. Initially an open ear for colleagues on an individual level, Dr. Chaudhari was later trained on the topic of wellness through the Scholars of Wellness Program and received her Organization Leadership and Coaching Certificate at Northwestern University. Dr. Chaudhari then explains that, through the program, volunteers from both medical and non-medical backgrounds are trained to provide support for those experiencing adverse events, “compassion fatigue,” and discriminatory patient experiences. In addition, peers are also available to provide feedback or education. Specific metrics for the program include retention, wellbeing scores, and culture surveys to identify “pain points'' within the Institution. Next, the doctors discuss the topic of “work-life integration,” rather than work-life balance, and how to promote this in your own practice. While acknowledging that it may be difficult to advocate for yourself and set boundaries early on in your career, the group emphasizes the role of mentorship and how this can empower trainees/learners to take action sooner rather than later. The episode ends with a discussion on creating culture in your workplace. The doctors express sentiments that maintaining an intentional, positive outlook and treating all colleagues with respect is a key aspect in promoting wellness. In addition, they encourage listeners to acknowledge difficult situations and to share personal experiences to further promote an environment of support and growth. --- RESOURCES Define Measure Analyze Improve Control (DMAIC) Process: https://asq.org/quality-resources/dmaic Stolarski A, Moseley JM, O’Neal P, Whang E, Kristo G. Retired Surgeons’ Reflections on Their Careers. JAMA Surg. 2020;155(4):359–361. doi:10.1001/jamasurg.2019.5476