Surgeons at The Table
Surgeons at The Table is a podcast born out of my journey as a general surgery chief resident with aspirations for a career in academic cardiac surgery, focusing on heart and lung transplantation. Throughout my training at some of the nation's top academic hospitals, I've had the privilege to learn from and be mentored by some of the most influential leaders in surgery. These interactions have ignited a deep passion within me for the art and science of surgery.
Reflecting on the invaluable wisdom and experiences shared with me, I decided to launch this podcast to bridge the gap between surgeon leaders and the next generation of aspiring surgeons. Each episode features in-depth conversations with directors, chairs, deans, and presidents who have risen to leadership positions in the field of surgery. I share their stories, insights, and advice to inspire, educate, and empower trainees, young faculty, and anyone aspiring to follow in their footsteps.
Tune in to Surgeons at The Table and learn from the wisdom of those who have shaped the beautiful field of surgery.
Surgeons at The Table
14. Dr. Robert McIntyre
Dr. Robert McIntyre, John and Cynthia Schultz Professor and Chief of the Division of GI, Trauma, and Endocrine Surgery, as well as Vice Chair of Finance in the Department of Surgery at the University of Colorado, reflects on how personal trauma influenced his career path and discusses the transition from resident to attending surgeon, highlighting the new responsibilities that come with leadership.
He emphasizes the importance of soft skills—especially listening—and how leadership opportunities often arise from being prepared and open to them. Dr. McIntyre shares his insights into balancing multiple roles in a surgical career, the value of collaboration, and the power of building trust within a team.
Dr. McIntyre also highlights the complexities of revenue cycle management and the significance of compliance in billing practices.
Takeaways
- Dr. McIntyre's journey into surgery was influenced by personal trauma.
- The transition from resident to attending brings new responsibilities.
- Leadership opportunities often arise from being prepared and open to them.
- Soft skills, especially listening, are crucial for effective leadership.
- Balancing multiple roles can be achieved through collaboration and teamwork.
- Influence in leadership comes from valuing team input and building trust.
- Documentation is key to successful revenue cycle management.
- Timely filing and clean claims are critical to avoid denials.
- Regular feedback and education are essential for compliance and improvement.
- Future leaders should focus on management and finance skills alongside clinical expertise.