Dr. Theodore Bass, Professor of Medicine at UF Health-Jacksonville, University of Florida, is a well-respected leader in the field of interventional cardiology. Recognized as one of Florida's "Top Doctors" for over thirty years, his work spans new device development, clinical trials, and cell transplantation. In this interview, Dr. Bass shares insights on the realities of clinical practice, offers advice to new medical professionals, and reflects on the evolving landscape of healthcare and cardiology.
Is there a therapy area or subject matter that you feel deserves more emphasis during residency and fellowship training?
I have been training fellows for over 35-40 years and I’m unimpressed with the move toward a 'shift work mentality'. In other words, once a physician is done with a procedure, it’s handed off to another physician.
Multispecialty teams handling cases sounds good on paper. But it actually leads to a loss in continuity of care and diminishes the sense of responsibility for patient outcomes. This is a critical issue that deserves more attention. It's vital for a fellow to be comprehensively informed about a case, rather than just receiving the reader’s digest version of it. What suffers, in the end, is patient care. This needs to be addressed and talked about in healthcare.
As I get older, I will be a patient, and I don't want to find myself on the other side of this poor algorithm, this shift work approach.
Many residents and fellows leave training with a sense that they aren’t fully ready for clinical practice. What’s your advice to help overcome this fear?
Many residents and fellows leave training feeling unprepared for clinical practice, but I believe this apprehension is actually good. If they lack this fear, that's when I become concerned. The training is comprehensive but cannot cover every aspect of clinical practice; it’s still an abbreviation of the entirety of the work. If a trainee emerges overly confident, it often suggests that they don’t know what they don’t know, which is more dangerous in medicine than a healthy dose of fear. Acknowledging that there are things they are not yet ready to handle is crucial. I’m not talking about being paralyzed by fear, but understanding and accepting one's limitations. I expect fellows to enter practice with this mindset.
Continuous learning and seeking help when needed are fundamental to their development as physicians; there are no shortcuts in this process. However, if a fellow is genuinely unprepared, it's the responsibility of their mentors and the training program to address this. They should be made aware that perhaps the field isn’t right for them or the specific specialty. But such extreme cases aside, it's a positive sign when trainees acknowledge their shortcomings and exhibit readiness to learn and grow. This attitude is exactly what we hope to see in emerging medical professionals.
Considering you’re well-published and have extensive experience in medical research, how would you recommend a resident or fellow get involved with clinical trials and/or establish collaborative research with other specialists?
As a physician with a lot of research experience, I encourage residents and fellows to actively seek opportunities in clinical trials and collaborative research. At our institution, we publish a lot, but we also focus on various domains like imaging, adjunctive technologies, and thrombosis, offering ample chances for involvement. However, the initiative must come from the fellows themselves. Starting early is advantageous, especially during a general cardiology fellowship. The interventional fellowship is very condensed—so it might be unreasonable to expect fellows to have the time to write and publish much, if they are to spend as much time in the lab as they should.
So—don’t just get involved in research to check boxes off on your CV. Do it out of genuine interest, not just for the sake of accumulating publications. Aside from the primacy of experience over publications, nobody cares about a publication whose sole purpose is to exist. Seeking help and mentorship is also vital. For instance, I feel immensely satisfied when a new specialist, fresh from training, asks for my assistance in a procedure. There’s no better feeling than when they come in and ask me “can you scrub up with me here?” It shows their willingness to learn and their dedication to patient care, placing it above any ego-driven arrogance. It's also crucial to engage in clinical research to develop a critical eye for what's credible and what's not in the vast sea of medical literature.
Organizations like the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and SCAI provide excellent platforms for early career mentoring and research education. I was President of SCAI about 10 years ago. There, the team has set up early career mentoring. These societies can also greatly aid in networking with accomplished researchers. It’s important to get hands-on experience in research, whether it’s basic science, translation, or clinical. Understanding and interpreting research data correctly is an essential skill for an interventional cardiologist. In the end, you’re your own editor. And have to distinguish between what matters and what’s noise. These skills come with practice and exposure to diverse research methodologies.
When it comes to treating calcific plaque, what’s your go-to algorithm?
Living in Florida, I've encountered a high volume of cases involving calcified coronary plaques. When it comes to treating it, my approach is based on decades of experience, not a rigid algorithm. It also changes as new technologies come out.
The key, especially for those just starting out, is to gather as much information as possible—and I mean not just the clinical stuff but really deep-dive into the imaging. You've got to get multiple angles during coronary angiography to really understand what you're looking at—the plaque, the calcium, the whole shebang. Intravascular imaging, like OCT or IVUS, is also super helpful. It gives you a different perspective on the plaque, helps with sizing up the vessels, and other important details you need to know before you do anything.
Now, when it's time to decide on treatment, it's all about the patient. What's their heart function like? How old are they? What are they hoping to achieve with treatment? Let's say you have an 82-year-old who just wants to stroll on the beach with their spouse — their treatment might look different from what you'd do for someone younger. It's really about tailoring your approach to each patient and seeing them as a whole. Don’t rush into it, but take your time understanding their unique position and needs.
As for the nitty-gritty of the procedures, I've been around since the early days of the rotablator. It was quite a thing to train people on, given its risks and complexities. Nowadays, I'll often start with something simpler. I start with a compliant balloon to initially loosen the area or create a channel, followed by a non-compliant balloon that I can inflate to very high pressures. This helps me check if I can properly open or expand the balloon in the affected area.
You have to be cautious, though. Sometimes, if the balloon expands along its length, it might seem like it's fully expanded while it’s not. We used to avoid this approach, thinking any dissection might send a patient straight to surgery, but with current techniques, we have more flexibility. We can use rotors, atherectomy devices, intravascular lithotripsy treatments — there's a whole toolbox available now.
So, yes, over time, you do develop a sort of personal algorithm based on the disease's extent, its nature, and what's best for the patient. It's a process you refine over years of practice. This is a topic I could talk about forever because it's been such a big part of my career.
When thinking about the business of healthcare, what are 2-3 concepts that you think fellows should really try to grasp early in their professional careers?
First off, back to what I already said: know what you don't know. This awareness is key to success, leadership, caring for people, and building trust. Your patients are entrusting you with their health and wellbeing, their most precious assets. It's important to remember you're there to serve them and to work with them. It's not just about making decisions for them, but rather making decisions together and understanding their needs and concerns.
The second thing is to be mindful about over-testing. It might make me sound like an old-timer, but it's true — you don't always need a barrage of tests. Every test should have a clear purpose. Ask yourself, 'What specific question am I trying to answer with this test?' It’s not just about finding something; it’s about having a plan in place for whatever you might find. This approach not only benefits the patient by avoiding unnecessary procedures, but it also helps control healthcare costs and saves time for everyone involved.
Dr. Theodore Bass, Professor of Medicine at UF Health-Jacksonville, University of Florida, is a well-respected leader in the field of interventional cardiology. Recognized as one of Florida's "Top Doctors" for over thirty years, his work spans new device development, clinical trials, and cell transplantation. In this interview, Dr. Bass shares insights on the realities of clinical practice, offers advice to new medical professionals, and reflects on the evolving landscape of healthcare and cardiology.
Is there a therapy area or subject matter that you feel deserves more emphasis during residency and fellowship training?
I have been training fellows for over 35-40 years and I’m unimpressed with the move toward a 'shift work mentality'. In other words, once a physician is done with a procedure, it’s handed off to another physician.
Multispecialty teams handling cases sounds good on paper. But it actually leads to a loss in continuity of care and diminishes the sense of responsibility for patient outcomes. This is a critical issue that deserves more attention. It's vital for a fellow to be comprehensively informed about a case, rather than just receiving the reader’s digest version of it. What suffers, in the end, is patient care. This needs to be addressed and talked about in healthcare.
As I get older, I will be a patient, and I don't want to find myself on the other side of this poor algorithm, this shift work approach.
Many residents and fellows leave training with a sense that they aren’t fully ready for clinical practice. What’s your advice to help overcome this fear?
Many residents and fellows leave training feeling unprepared for clinical practice, but I believe this apprehension is actually good. If they lack this fear, that's when I become concerned. The training is comprehensive but cannot cover every aspect of clinical practice; it’s still an abbreviation of the entirety of the work. If a trainee emerges overly confident, it often suggests that they don’t know what they don’t know, which is more dangerous in medicine than a healthy dose of fear. Acknowledging that there are things they are not yet ready to handle is crucial. I’m not talking about being paralyzed by fear, but understanding and accepting one's limitations. I expect fellows to enter practice with this mindset.
Continuous learning and seeking help when needed are fundamental to their development as physicians; there are no shortcuts in this process. However, if a fellow is genuinely unprepared, it's the responsibility of their mentors and the training program to address this. They should be made aware that perhaps the field isn’t right for them or the specific specialty. But such extreme cases aside, it's a positive sign when trainees acknowledge their shortcomings and exhibit readiness to learn and grow. This attitude is exactly what we hope to see in emerging medical professionals.
Considering you’re well-published and have extensive experience in medical research, how would you recommend a resident or fellow get involved with clinical trials and/or establish collaborative research with other specialists?
As a physician with a lot of research experience, I encourage residents and fellows to actively seek opportunities in clinical trials and collaborative research. At our institution, we publish a lot, but we also focus on various domains like imaging, adjunctive technologies, and thrombosis, offering ample chances for involvement. However, the initiative must come from the fellows themselves. Starting early is advantageous, especially during a general cardiology fellowship. The interventional fellowship is very condensed—so it might be unreasonable to expect fellows to have the time to write and publish much, if they are to spend as much time in the lab as they should.
So—don’t just get involved in research to check boxes off on your CV. Do it out of genuine interest, not just for the sake of accumulating publications. Aside from the primacy of experience over publications, nobody cares about a publication whose sole purpose is to exist. Seeking help and mentorship is also vital. For instance, I feel immensely satisfied when a new specialist, fresh from training, asks for my assistance in a procedure. There’s no better feeling than when they come in and ask me “can you scrub up with me here?” It shows their willingness to learn and their dedication to patient care, placing it above any ego-driven arrogance. It's also crucial to engage in clinical research to develop a critical eye for what's credible and what's not in the vast sea of medical literature.
Organizations like the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and SCAI provide excellent platforms for early career mentoring and research education. I was President of SCAI about 10 years ago. There, the team has set up early career mentoring. These societies can also greatly aid in networking with accomplished researchers. It’s important to get hands-on experience in research, whether it’s basic science, translation, or clinical. Understanding and interpreting research data correctly is an essential skill for an interventional cardiologist. In the end, you’re your own editor. And have to distinguish between what matters and what’s noise. These skills come with practice and exposure to diverse research methodologies.
When it comes to treating calcific plaque, what’s your go-to algorithm?
Living in Florida, I've encountered a high volume of cases involving calcified coronary plaques. When it comes to treating it, my approach is based on decades of experience, not a rigid algorithm. It also changes as new technologies come out.
The key, especially for those just starting out, is to gather as much information as possible—and I mean not just the clinical stuff but really deep-dive into the imaging. You've got to get multiple angles during coronary angiography to really understand what you're looking at—the plaque, the calcium, the whole shebang. Intravascular imaging, like OCT or IVUS, is also super helpful. It gives you a different perspective on the plaque, helps with sizing up the vessels, and other important details you need to know before you do anything.
Now, when it's time to decide on treatment, it's all about the patient. What's their heart function like? How old are they? What are they hoping to achieve with treatment? Let's say you have an 82-year-old who just wants to stroll on the beach with their spouse — their treatment might look different from what you'd do for someone younger. It's really about tailoring your approach to each patient and seeing them as a whole. Don’t rush into it, but take your time understanding their unique position and needs.
As for the nitty-gritty of the procedures, I've been around since the early days of the rotablator. It was quite a thing to train people on, given its risks and complexities. Nowadays, I'll often start with something simpler. I start with a compliant balloon to initially loosen the area or create a channel, followed by a non-compliant balloon that I can inflate to very high pressures. This helps me check if I can properly open or expand the balloon in the affected area.
You have to be cautious, though. Sometimes, if the balloon expands along its length, it might seem like it's fully expanded while it’s not. We used to avoid this approach, thinking any dissection might send a patient straight to surgery, but with current techniques, we have more flexibility. We can use rotors, atherectomy devices, intravascular lithotripsy treatments — there's a whole toolbox available now.
So, yes, over time, you do develop a sort of personal algorithm based on the disease's extent, its nature, and what's best for the patient. It's a process you refine over years of practice. This is a topic I could talk about forever because it's been such a big part of my career.
When thinking about the business of healthcare, what are 2-3 concepts that you think fellows should really try to grasp early in their professional careers?
First off, back to what I already said: know what you don't know. This awareness is key to success, leadership, caring for people, and building trust. Your patients are entrusting you with their health and wellbeing, their most precious assets. It's important to remember you're there to serve them and to work with them. It's not just about making decisions for them, but rather making decisions together and understanding their needs and concerns.
The second thing is to be mindful about over-testing. It might make me sound like an old-timer, but it's true — you don't always need a barrage of tests. Every test should have a clear purpose. Ask yourself, 'What specific question am I trying to answer with this test?' It’s not just about finding something; it’s about having a plan in place for whatever you might find. This approach not only benefits the patient by avoiding unnecessary procedures, but it also helps control healthcare costs and saves time for everyone involved.
Dr. Theodore Bass, Professor of Medicine at UF Health-Jacksonville, University of Florida, is a well-respected leader in the field of interventional cardiology. Recognized as one of Florida's "Top Doctors" for over thirty years, his work spans new device development, clinical trials, and cell transplantation. In this interview, Dr. Bass shares insights on the realities of clinical practice, offers advice to new medical professionals, and reflects on the evolving landscape of healthcare and cardiology.
Is there a therapy area or subject matter that you feel deserves more emphasis during residency and fellowship training?
I have been training fellows for over 35-40 years and I’m unimpressed with the move toward a 'shift work mentality'. In other words, once a physician is done with a procedure, it’s handed off to another physician.
Multispecialty teams handling cases sounds good on paper. But it actually leads to a loss in continuity of care and diminishes the sense of responsibility for patient outcomes. This is a critical issue that deserves more attention. It's vital for a fellow to be comprehensively informed about a case, rather than just receiving the reader’s digest version of it. What suffers, in the end, is patient care. This needs to be addressed and talked about in healthcare.
As I get older, I will be a patient, and I don't want to find myself on the other side of this poor algorithm, this shift work approach.
Many residents and fellows leave training with a sense that they aren’t fully ready for clinical practice. What’s your advice to help overcome this fear?
Many residents and fellows leave training feeling unprepared for clinical practice, but I believe this apprehension is actually good. If they lack this fear, that's when I become concerned. The training is comprehensive but cannot cover every aspect of clinical practice; it’s still an abbreviation of the entirety of the work. If a trainee emerges overly confident, it often suggests that they don’t know what they don’t know, which is more dangerous in medicine than a healthy dose of fear. Acknowledging that there are things they are not yet ready to handle is crucial. I’m not talking about being paralyzed by fear, but understanding and accepting one's limitations. I expect fellows to enter practice with this mindset.
Continuous learning and seeking help when needed are fundamental to their development as physicians; there are no shortcuts in this process. However, if a fellow is genuinely unprepared, it's the responsibility of their mentors and the training program to address this. They should be made aware that perhaps the field isn’t right for them or the specific specialty. But such extreme cases aside, it's a positive sign when trainees acknowledge their shortcomings and exhibit readiness to learn and grow. This attitude is exactly what we hope to see in emerging medical professionals.
Considering you’re well-published and have extensive experience in medical research, how would you recommend a resident or fellow get involved with clinical trials and/or establish collaborative research with other specialists?
As a physician with a lot of research experience, I encourage residents and fellows to actively seek opportunities in clinical trials and collaborative research. At our institution, we publish a lot, but we also focus on various domains like imaging, adjunctive technologies, and thrombosis, offering ample chances for involvement. However, the initiative must come from the fellows themselves. Starting early is advantageous, especially during a general cardiology fellowship. The interventional fellowship is very condensed—so it might be unreasonable to expect fellows to have the time to write and publish much, if they are to spend as much time in the lab as they should.
So—don’t just get involved in research to check boxes off on your CV. Do it out of genuine interest, not just for the sake of accumulating publications. Aside from the primacy of experience over publications, nobody cares about a publication whose sole purpose is to exist. Seeking help and mentorship is also vital. For instance, I feel immensely satisfied when a new specialist, fresh from training, asks for my assistance in a procedure. There’s no better feeling than when they come in and ask me “can you scrub up with me here?” It shows their willingness to learn and their dedication to patient care, placing it above any ego-driven arrogance. It's also crucial to engage in clinical research to develop a critical eye for what's credible and what's not in the vast sea of medical literature.
Organizations like the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and SCAI provide excellent platforms for early career mentoring and research education. I was President of SCAI about 10 years ago. There, the team has set up early career mentoring. These societies can also greatly aid in networking with accomplished researchers. It’s important to get hands-on experience in research, whether it’s basic science, translation, or clinical. Understanding and interpreting research data correctly is an essential skill for an interventional cardiologist. In the end, you’re your own editor. And have to distinguish between what matters and what’s noise. These skills come with practice and exposure to diverse research methodologies.
When it comes to treating calcific plaque, what’s your go-to algorithm?
Living in Florida, I've encountered a high volume of cases involving calcified coronary plaques. When it comes to treating it, my approach is based on decades of experience, not a rigid algorithm. It also changes as new technologies come out.
The key, especially for those just starting out, is to gather as much information as possible—and I mean not just the clinical stuff but really deep-dive into the imaging. You've got to get multiple angles during coronary angiography to really understand what you're looking at—the plaque, the calcium, the whole shebang. Intravascular imaging, like OCT or IVUS, is also super helpful. It gives you a different perspective on the plaque, helps with sizing up the vessels, and other important details you need to know before you do anything.
Now, when it's time to decide on treatment, it's all about the patient. What's their heart function like? How old are they? What are they hoping to achieve with treatment? Let's say you have an 82-year-old who just wants to stroll on the beach with their spouse — their treatment might look different from what you'd do for someone younger. It's really about tailoring your approach to each patient and seeing them as a whole. Don’t rush into it, but take your time understanding their unique position and needs.
As for the nitty-gritty of the procedures, I've been around since the early days of the rotablator. It was quite a thing to train people on, given its risks and complexities. Nowadays, I'll often start with something simpler. I start with a compliant balloon to initially loosen the area or create a channel, followed by a non-compliant balloon that I can inflate to very high pressures. This helps me check if I can properly open or expand the balloon in the affected area.
You have to be cautious, though. Sometimes, if the balloon expands along its length, it might seem like it's fully expanded while it’s not. We used to avoid this approach, thinking any dissection might send a patient straight to surgery, but with current techniques, we have more flexibility. We can use rotors, atherectomy devices, intravascular lithotripsy treatments — there's a whole toolbox available now.
So, yes, over time, you do develop a sort of personal algorithm based on the disease's extent, its nature, and what's best for the patient. It's a process you refine over years of practice. This is a topic I could talk about forever because it's been such a big part of my career.
When thinking about the business of healthcare, what are 2-3 concepts that you think fellows should really try to grasp early in their professional careers?
First off, back to what I already said: know what you don't know. This awareness is key to success, leadership, caring for people, and building trust. Your patients are entrusting you with their health and wellbeing, their most precious assets. It's important to remember you're there to serve them and to work with them. It's not just about making decisions for them, but rather making decisions together and understanding their needs and concerns.
The second thing is to be mindful about over-testing. It might make me sound like an old-timer, but it's true — you don't always need a barrage of tests. Every test should have a clear purpose. Ask yourself, 'What specific question am I trying to answer with this test?' It’s not just about finding something; it’s about having a plan in place for whatever you might find. This approach not only benefits the patient by avoiding unnecessary procedures, but it also helps control healthcare costs and saves time for everyone involved.
Fun, Insightful Interviews with the
World's Brightest Physicians
Delivered straight to your inbox. Completely free. No spam.
Fun, Insightful Interviews with the
World's Brightest Physicians
Delivered straight to your inbox. Completely free. No spam.
Fun, Insightful Interviews with the
World's Brightest Physicians
Delivered straight to your inbox. Completely free. No spam.
You have friends and colleagues across multiple healthcare disciplines and specialties. For a young clinician, how important is networking? Are there 2-3 tips that you can pass along on how to build relationships better or more effectively?
I’ve been lucky to be surrounded by so many great people. I love what I do and have been surrounded by amazing colleagues, friends, and patients. But there are certainly many advantages to getting out there for young clinicians, like employment or project opportunities, the chance to change courses, finding out about new devices or technology.
So for those starting out, here's my advice: First, keep in touch with the colleagues and mentors whom you respect and admire. Build and maintain those relationships. Next, get involved in professional societies and colleges. There's a lot happening in these spaces that can benefit your career, whether it's in academia or practice. The lines between these two are blurring in today's healthcare landscape.
By getting involved, you open yourself up to a world of opportunities. You'll learn about the latest developments, like new medical devices and treatments, and you'll meet incredible people from all over the world. It's this diversity of experiences and perspectives that makes the medical profession so unique. Think of it as a buffet of opportunities — you can explore, try new things, and constantly evolve in your career. What's more exciting than that?
There is a fair amount of data that shows young physicians leave their first job out of fellowship in less than 5 years. Why do you think that is and are there a few pieces of advice you can offer to enhance career sustainability?
It's true, many young physicians leave their first job post-fellowship fairly quickly. From my experience mentoring fellows over the years, I've seen this pattern. The first thing to understand is that the first job you get in medicine isn't the be-all and end-all. It's not like you've 'made it' once you get there. It's just a step in your journey. Life changes, you might start a family, or your interests might shift. So, if a job isn't right for you, it's okay to move on. It's quite common to make changes early in your career.
For me, it was different. I took a job in Florida, and being a Northeasterner, I thought it would be a short stint. Forty years later, here I am. But that's not everyone's story.
Now, for advice: First, really figure out what you want from your job. Understand the workplace environment. Are people generally happy there? Are they leaving frequently? Be honest with yourself about what's important to you in a job. Communicate your needs clearly, but professionally. For instance, if you need to spend a certain amount of time in the cath lab, make that known and investigate if there’s the opportunity before you join.
But also show your maturity when choosing whether to stay or go, because no job is perfect. Weigh the pros and cons, keeping in mind that not every single one of your boxes will be ticked. And sometimes the overall package, despite some drawbacks, might be worth it. Lastly, consider what's best for you and your family. That's often the deciding factor in these decisions.
What are some red flags to consider when fellows are looking to join a practice? How important is it to not be afraid to negotiate all the tangibles (eg, starting salary, vacation time, etc) as well as intangibles (eg, job perks) upfront versus after your first year in practice?
When fellows are looking into joining a practice, there are a couple of red flags they should be wary of. First, take a close look at the turnover rate of physicians in the practice. If there's a high turnover, it could be a sign of underlying issues in the workplace. Secondly, be cautious of practices offering exorbitant starting salaries. While it might be tempting, it's important to ask why they're paying significantly more than the market rate. There might be more to the story than meets the eye.
From my experience, I've seen fellows jump at these high-paying offers, often in less desirable locations, and it rarely pans out well. It's important to remember that while salary is important, especially if you're dealing with student loans or supporting a family, it's not the only factor to consider. Your growth potential, both professionally and personally, is crucial. In fact, if you’re not in a tight financial spot, the initial salary is almost the least interesting part!
If you're in a good practice, the financial rewards will follow your hard work. So instead, focus on finding a place where you can thrive and develop your skills. Don't hesitate to ask around, talk to current or former employees, and get a real feel for the place. And when it comes to negotiating, don't be shy about discussing both the tangible aspects, like salary and vacation, and the intangibles, like job perks. Do it up front with professionalism, kindness, and modesty. Remember, it's about finding the right fit for you, and sometimes that means asking the tough questions.
When operating, if you had to choose 3 songs to play on repeat, what would they be?
If I had to choose music to play in the operating room, it would never be ‘Stairway to Heaven’, for obvious reasons.
Jokes aside, I actually prefer to keep it silent. There is already enough ADD going on in the cath lab. There's already so much going on that demands our attention, like the techs, nurses, doctors (myself included)—we all need to stay focused.
In such an environment, adding music can create an additional layer of distraction. It's crucial to maintain a calm, unemotional atmosphere where we, the staff, can hear each other clearly. Especially since patient care is what’s at stake, I want to be able to hear what the patient has to say as well.
How about movies — what are your top 3 favorites of all time?
Nothing specific pops into my mind immediately. My film book is not too creative, just the classics. What that word ‘classics’ means to me is movies like ‘The Sting’ and ‘Jaws.’
If you could go back to your late 20s or early 30s, what would you tell your younger self from a professional standpoint?
I think I’d say: Enjoy the journey, because it’s what the process comes down to. You've worked hard, and if you stay committed to doing the right thing, you're going to have a great life and enjoy yourself, both professionally and personally. It might sound corny, but it's true. Every day, I'm reminded of this when I see my patients. They come to me, often strangers, placing their utmost trust in my care—it's both humbling and awe-inspiring.
Live your life and just say “thank you.” I often hear colleagues say “I don’t want my kid to be a doctor!,” and it actually upsets me. Sure, there are caveats like more administration and bureaucracy, but the rewards more than make up for it. You have people and their families trusting you with their greatest asset. I can’t believe they would do that, but it’s very humbling and humanizing.
Last, are there any events, congresses, clinical research, etc. you’d like to raise awareness for?
There's a whole world of events and congresses out there that I think are crucial for medical professionals, especially those new to the field. Meetings like the ACC, SCAI, and TCT are just a few examples. I highly recommend attending these, not necessarily every year, but often enough to stay updated on what's happening in the medical community. These events are not just about the formal research presentations; they're also incredibly social. They're where you see what your colleagues and friends are up to, where research groups come together, and where you can really expand your horizons.
When I used to interview medical students, I'd often ask them about their plans. They'd lay out their life in a list or items, as if it were a set path, and I'd just start laughing and tell them, “I hope not!” They ask, “Then why do it?” I remind them to be open to the unexpected, to surround themselves with good, talented, smart people. Medicine is like a buffet — you have to be willing to try different things, whether it's a new field of study or a different approach to treatment. Don’t like the fish? Try the vegetables next. Some of the best opportunities in my career came serendipitously, by being in the right place at the right time, surrounded by brilliant people.
You have friends and colleagues across multiple healthcare disciplines and specialties. For a young clinician, how important is networking? Are there 2-3 tips that you can pass along on how to build relationships better or more effectively?
I’ve been lucky to be surrounded by so many great people. I love what I do and have been surrounded by amazing colleagues, friends, and patients. But there are certainly many advantages to getting out there for young clinicians, like employment or project opportunities, the chance to change courses, finding out about new devices or technology.
So for those starting out, here's my advice: First, keep in touch with the colleagues and mentors whom you respect and admire. Build and maintain those relationships. Next, get involved in professional societies and colleges. There's a lot happening in these spaces that can benefit your career, whether it's in academia or practice. The lines between these two are blurring in today's healthcare landscape.
By getting involved, you open yourself up to a world of opportunities. You'll learn about the latest developments, like new medical devices and treatments, and you'll meet incredible people from all over the world. It's this diversity of experiences and perspectives that makes the medical profession so unique. Think of it as a buffet of opportunities — you can explore, try new things, and constantly evolve in your career. What's more exciting than that?
There is a fair amount of data that shows young physicians leave their first job out of fellowship in less than 5 years. Why do you think that is and are there a few pieces of advice you can offer to enhance career sustainability?
It's true, many young physicians leave their first job post-fellowship fairly quickly. From my experience mentoring fellows over the years, I've seen this pattern. The first thing to understand is that the first job you get in medicine isn't the be-all and end-all. It's not like you've 'made it' once you get there. It's just a step in your journey. Life changes, you might start a family, or your interests might shift. So, if a job isn't right for you, it's okay to move on. It's quite common to make changes early in your career.
For me, it was different. I took a job in Florida, and being a Northeasterner, I thought it would be a short stint. Forty years later, here I am. But that's not everyone's story.
Now, for advice: First, really figure out what you want from your job. Understand the workplace environment. Are people generally happy there? Are they leaving frequently? Be honest with yourself about what's important to you in a job. Communicate your needs clearly, but professionally. For instance, if you need to spend a certain amount of time in the cath lab, make that known and investigate if there’s the opportunity before you join.
But also show your maturity when choosing whether to stay or go, because no job is perfect. Weigh the pros and cons, keeping in mind that not every single one of your boxes will be ticked. And sometimes the overall package, despite some drawbacks, might be worth it. Lastly, consider what's best for you and your family. That's often the deciding factor in these decisions.
What are some red flags to consider when fellows are looking to join a practice? How important is it to not be afraid to negotiate all the tangibles (eg, starting salary, vacation time, etc) as well as intangibles (eg, job perks) upfront versus after your first year in practice?
When fellows are looking into joining a practice, there are a couple of red flags they should be wary of. First, take a close look at the turnover rate of physicians in the practice. If there's a high turnover, it could be a sign of underlying issues in the workplace. Secondly, be cautious of practices offering exorbitant starting salaries. While it might be tempting, it's important to ask why they're paying significantly more than the market rate. There might be more to the story than meets the eye.
From my experience, I've seen fellows jump at these high-paying offers, often in less desirable locations, and it rarely pans out well. It's important to remember that while salary is important, especially if you're dealing with student loans or supporting a family, it's not the only factor to consider. Your growth potential, both professionally and personally, is crucial. In fact, if you’re not in a tight financial spot, the initial salary is almost the least interesting part!
If you're in a good practice, the financial rewards will follow your hard work. So instead, focus on finding a place where you can thrive and develop your skills. Don't hesitate to ask around, talk to current or former employees, and get a real feel for the place. And when it comes to negotiating, don't be shy about discussing both the tangible aspects, like salary and vacation, and the intangibles, like job perks. Do it up front with professionalism, kindness, and modesty. Remember, it's about finding the right fit for you, and sometimes that means asking the tough questions.
When operating, if you had to choose 3 songs to play on repeat, what would they be?
If I had to choose music to play in the operating room, it would never be ‘Stairway to Heaven’, for obvious reasons.
Jokes aside, I actually prefer to keep it silent. There is already enough ADD going on in the cath lab. There's already so much going on that demands our attention, like the techs, nurses, doctors (myself included)—we all need to stay focused.
In such an environment, adding music can create an additional layer of distraction. It's crucial to maintain a calm, unemotional atmosphere where we, the staff, can hear each other clearly. Especially since patient care is what’s at stake, I want to be able to hear what the patient has to say as well.
How about movies — what are your top 3 favorites of all time?
Nothing specific pops into my mind immediately. My film book is not too creative, just the classics. What that word ‘classics’ means to me is movies like ‘The Sting’ and ‘Jaws.’
If you could go back to your late 20s or early 30s, what would you tell your younger self from a professional standpoint?
I think I’d say: Enjoy the journey, because it’s what the process comes down to. You've worked hard, and if you stay committed to doing the right thing, you're going to have a great life and enjoy yourself, both professionally and personally. It might sound corny, but it's true. Every day, I'm reminded of this when I see my patients. They come to me, often strangers, placing their utmost trust in my care—it's both humbling and awe-inspiring.
Live your life and just say “thank you.” I often hear colleagues say “I don’t want my kid to be a doctor!,” and it actually upsets me. Sure, there are caveats like more administration and bureaucracy, but the rewards more than make up for it. You have people and their families trusting you with their greatest asset. I can’t believe they would do that, but it’s very humbling and humanizing.
Last, are there any events, congresses, clinical research, etc. you’d like to raise awareness for?
There's a whole world of events and congresses out there that I think are crucial for medical professionals, especially those new to the field. Meetings like the ACC, SCAI, and TCT are just a few examples. I highly recommend attending these, not necessarily every year, but often enough to stay updated on what's happening in the medical community. These events are not just about the formal research presentations; they're also incredibly social. They're where you see what your colleagues and friends are up to, where research groups come together, and where you can really expand your horizons.
When I used to interview medical students, I'd often ask them about their plans. They'd lay out their life in a list or items, as if it were a set path, and I'd just start laughing and tell them, “I hope not!” They ask, “Then why do it?” I remind them to be open to the unexpected, to surround themselves with good, talented, smart people. Medicine is like a buffet — you have to be willing to try different things, whether it's a new field of study or a different approach to treatment. Don’t like the fish? Try the vegetables next. Some of the best opportunities in my career came serendipitously, by being in the right place at the right time, surrounded by brilliant people.
You have friends and colleagues across multiple healthcare disciplines and specialties. For a young clinician, how important is networking? Are there 2-3 tips that you can pass along on how to build relationships better or more effectively?
I’ve been lucky to be surrounded by so many great people. I love what I do and have been surrounded by amazing colleagues, friends, and patients. But there are certainly many advantages to getting out there for young clinicians, like employment or project opportunities, the chance to change courses, finding out about new devices or technology.
So for those starting out, here's my advice: First, keep in touch with the colleagues and mentors whom you respect and admire. Build and maintain those relationships. Next, get involved in professional societies and colleges. There's a lot happening in these spaces that can benefit your career, whether it's in academia or practice. The lines between these two are blurring in today's healthcare landscape.
By getting involved, you open yourself up to a world of opportunities. You'll learn about the latest developments, like new medical devices and treatments, and you'll meet incredible people from all over the world. It's this diversity of experiences and perspectives that makes the medical profession so unique. Think of it as a buffet of opportunities — you can explore, try new things, and constantly evolve in your career. What's more exciting than that?
There is a fair amount of data that shows young physicians leave their first job out of fellowship in less than 5 years. Why do you think that is and are there a few pieces of advice you can offer to enhance career sustainability?
It's true, many young physicians leave their first job post-fellowship fairly quickly. From my experience mentoring fellows over the years, I've seen this pattern. The first thing to understand is that the first job you get in medicine isn't the be-all and end-all. It's not like you've 'made it' once you get there. It's just a step in your journey. Life changes, you might start a family, or your interests might shift. So, if a job isn't right for you, it's okay to move on. It's quite common to make changes early in your career.
For me, it was different. I took a job in Florida, and being a Northeasterner, I thought it would be a short stint. Forty years later, here I am. But that's not everyone's story.
Now, for advice: First, really figure out what you want from your job. Understand the workplace environment. Are people generally happy there? Are they leaving frequently? Be honest with yourself about what's important to you in a job. Communicate your needs clearly, but professionally. For instance, if you need to spend a certain amount of time in the cath lab, make that known and investigate if there’s the opportunity before you join.
But also show your maturity when choosing whether to stay or go, because no job is perfect. Weigh the pros and cons, keeping in mind that not every single one of your boxes will be ticked. And sometimes the overall package, despite some drawbacks, might be worth it. Lastly, consider what's best for you and your family. That's often the deciding factor in these decisions.
What are some red flags to consider when fellows are looking to join a practice? How important is it to not be afraid to negotiate all the tangibles (eg, starting salary, vacation time, etc) as well as intangibles (eg, job perks) upfront versus after your first year in practice?
When fellows are looking into joining a practice, there are a couple of red flags they should be wary of. First, take a close look at the turnover rate of physicians in the practice. If there's a high turnover, it could be a sign of underlying issues in the workplace. Secondly, be cautious of practices offering exorbitant starting salaries. While it might be tempting, it's important to ask why they're paying significantly more than the market rate. There might be more to the story than meets the eye.
From my experience, I've seen fellows jump at these high-paying offers, often in less desirable locations, and it rarely pans out well. It's important to remember that while salary is important, especially if you're dealing with student loans or supporting a family, it's not the only factor to consider. Your growth potential, both professionally and personally, is crucial. In fact, if you’re not in a tight financial spot, the initial salary is almost the least interesting part!
If you're in a good practice, the financial rewards will follow your hard work. So instead, focus on finding a place where you can thrive and develop your skills. Don't hesitate to ask around, talk to current or former employees, and get a real feel for the place. And when it comes to negotiating, don't be shy about discussing both the tangible aspects, like salary and vacation, and the intangibles, like job perks. Do it up front with professionalism, kindness, and modesty. Remember, it's about finding the right fit for you, and sometimes that means asking the tough questions.
When operating, if you had to choose 3 songs to play on repeat, what would they be?
If I had to choose music to play in the operating room, it would never be ‘Stairway to Heaven’, for obvious reasons.
Jokes aside, I actually prefer to keep it silent. There is already enough ADD going on in the cath lab. There's already so much going on that demands our attention, like the techs, nurses, doctors (myself included)—we all need to stay focused.
In such an environment, adding music can create an additional layer of distraction. It's crucial to maintain a calm, unemotional atmosphere where we, the staff, can hear each other clearly. Especially since patient care is what’s at stake, I want to be able to hear what the patient has to say as well.
How about movies — what are your top 3 favorites of all time?
Nothing specific pops into my mind immediately. My film book is not too creative, just the classics. What that word ‘classics’ means to me is movies like ‘The Sting’ and ‘Jaws.’
If you could go back to your late 20s or early 30s, what would you tell your younger self from a professional standpoint?
I think I’d say: Enjoy the journey, because it’s what the process comes down to. You've worked hard, and if you stay committed to doing the right thing, you're going to have a great life and enjoy yourself, both professionally and personally. It might sound corny, but it's true. Every day, I'm reminded of this when I see my patients. They come to me, often strangers, placing their utmost trust in my care—it's both humbling and awe-inspiring.
Live your life and just say “thank you.” I often hear colleagues say “I don’t want my kid to be a doctor!,” and it actually upsets me. Sure, there are caveats like more administration and bureaucracy, but the rewards more than make up for it. You have people and their families trusting you with their greatest asset. I can’t believe they would do that, but it’s very humbling and humanizing.
Last, are there any events, congresses, clinical research, etc. you’d like to raise awareness for?
There's a whole world of events and congresses out there that I think are crucial for medical professionals, especially those new to the field. Meetings like the ACC, SCAI, and TCT are just a few examples. I highly recommend attending these, not necessarily every year, but often enough to stay updated on what's happening in the medical community. These events are not just about the formal research presentations; they're also incredibly social. They're where you see what your colleagues and friends are up to, where research groups come together, and where you can really expand your horizons.
When I used to interview medical students, I'd often ask them about their plans. They'd lay out their life in a list or items, as if it were a set path, and I'd just start laughing and tell them, “I hope not!” They ask, “Then why do it?” I remind them to be open to the unexpected, to surround themselves with good, talented, smart people. Medicine is like a buffet — you have to be willing to try different things, whether it's a new field of study or a different approach to treatment. Don’t like the fish? Try the vegetables next. Some of the best opportunities in my career came serendipitously, by being in the right place at the right time, surrounded by brilliant people.
