BOSS Business of Surgery Series

Amy Vertrees, MD
  • 4.8 (57)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to BOSS Business of Surgery Series! This program was specifically designed to help surgeons learn concepts not taught in residency but necessary for a successful surgery career. We were not told that most of our job would be interacting with others. We thought it was about the technical success of surgery or the knowledge that we learn. But it is so much more. Difficult partners and colleagues. Dealing with complications. Negotiating with administration. Running a successful and efficient clinic that doesn’t take bleed into our home life. How to have a life outside of surgery But if we don’t learn these concepts, we will end up in a negative spiral that will lead us into misery. And all of the time we spent training for the job we love, that could be so rewarding, is lost. You know there has to be a solution out there. That you can’t be the only one unhappy or wondering if it is just you. It’s time for a program that addresses your specific problems run by someone who knows what you are going through. You need a fellow surgeon who knows the way. You need a surgeon who has been where you are and found her way out to the other side: -Loving surgery again -Not taking work home -finishing notes immediately after clinic and heading home on time -Not letting complications set you back -Interacting with others with confidence -Finally seeing that you can control the results you get at work and home You can find out more about Dr. Vertrees and her work at www.BOSSsurgery.com.

  1. 2D AGO

    Ep 226 Talking through leaving your job with Amanda Hill, JD

    Episode Summary In Episode 226 of the BOSS Business of Surgery Series, Dr. Amy Vertrees, general surgeon, certified coach, and founder of the series, is joined by healthcare attorney Amanda Hill to discuss one of the most important — and misunderstood — career decisions physicians face: how to strategically navigate job transitions. This webinar-style episode focuses on empowerment, professional autonomy, and protecting physicians from costly mistakes when considering leaving a job. Rather than encouraging resignation, the conversation teaches physicians how to reclaim agency, understand their contracts, and make career decisions from strength rather than desperation. Dr. Vertrees shares her personal journey from employed surgeon dissatisfaction to building a thriving private practice, while Amanda Hill provides legal insight gained from 23 years representing physicians across healthcare systems. Together, they introduce a structured framework for evaluating career dissatisfaction, avoiding impulsive decisions, and preparing for either transforming a current job or exiting strategically. Meet the Speakers Dr. Amy Vertrees General surgeon practicing at a nonprofit community hospital in Tennessee U.S. Army veteran with 17 years of service and three combat deployments Certified professional coach Founder of the BOSS Business of Surgery Series (est. 2015) Transitioned from employed practice to founding her own private surgical practice Mission: Help physicians create freedom, autonomy, and professional fulfillment. Amanda Hill, JD Healthcare attorney based in Austin, Texas 23+ years representing physicians Experience with: Veterans Affairs system Large health systems Federally Qualified Health Centers Founder of Guard My Practice, focused on proactive physician protection Key Insight: Most physicians seek legal help only after problems occur — when options are limited and expensive. Key Topics Covered 1. The Changing Healthcare Landscape The speakers discuss the dramatic cultural shift physicians have experienced: Post-COVID decline in physician morale Increased administrative pressure Growing disrespect toward physicians Approximately 10% of physicians leaving medicine, increasing workload for those remaining Result: Many doctors feel trapped, exhausted, and unsure of their options. 2. The Truth About Jobs and Fulfillment Dr. Vertrees introduces a powerful mindset framework: Jobs provide: Opportunities to learn Circumstances to navigate Choices to make Jobs do NOT provide: Happiness Identity Personal fulfillment Relying on a job for emotional satisfaction gives away personal power to an institution that ultimately functions independently of any individual physician. 3. The Three-Step Job Dissatisfaction Analysis Before making any career move, physicians should complete this process: Step 1 — Define What You Want Remove perceived limitations Create a detailed, specific vision Avoid vague dissatisfaction Step 2 — Give Yourself Permission to Complain Vent without judgment Complaints reveal unmet desires Clarity comes from honesty Step 3 — Expand Perspective Ask colleagues about their jobs Learn what exists outside your current environment Challenge assumptions about what is possible 4. The Legal Reality of Leaving a Job Amanda Hill explains why impulsive resignation is dangerous. Common contract “scorpion tail” provisions include: Sign-on bonus clawbacks Tail malpractice insurance obligations Notice period restrictions Loss of CME or vacation benefits Non-compete implications Key Message: Your contract determines your exit strategy — not your emotions. 5. Strategic Career Transition Principles Physicians should: Understand contracts before announcing resignation Maximize benefits while still employed Plan timing carefully Protect finances and reputation Transition from strategy, not burnout 6. The 90-Day Transition Program Dr. Vertrees and Amanda Hill introduce their collaborative program designed to help physicians: Evaluate whether to stay or leave Understand contracts Develop negotiation skills Create strategic transition plans Gain community and expert guidance Program Details Weekly sessions: Tuesdays at 6 PM Central Duration: 3 months Small group format Includes personalized guidance and recordings Founding member support continues beyond the program Real-World Success Stories Dr. Vertrees shares examples demonstrating the power of strategic action: Negotiated significant compensation increases for herself and partners Built a successful private practice after believing recruitment would be impossible Found professional fulfillment through intentional career design Key Lesson: Money alone does not fix misalignment — clarity and agency do. Action Steps for Listeners ✅ Locate and review your employment contract ✅ Identify clawbacks, tail insurance, and notice provisions ✅ Complete the Three-Step Job Analysis ✅ Explore possibilities beyond your current environment ✅ Avoid impulsive resignation decisions ✅ Register for the free training: Protect Yourself If You Must Leave Your Job Core Takeaways Leaving a job is not failure — it is strategy. Your greatest professional power is choice. Most physicians wait too long to seek guidance. Understanding your contract is career protection. Fulfillment comes from agency, not employment status. Connect & Learn More Follow the BOSS Business of Surgery Series for education on the topics never taught in residency: Career strategy Negotiation Leadership Professional fulfillment

    1h 1m

  2. APR 6

    Ep 225 New attending career mistakes

    Episode Overview In this episode, Dr. Amy Vertrees breaks down the most common—and costly—mistakes surgeons make when transitioning from residency to independent practice. Medical training prepares physicians to be excellent employees inside hierarchical systems. But the moment residency ends, surgeons must suddenly step into leadership roles — becoming the CEO of their own careers, practices, and professional futures. This episode serves as both a roadmap and mindset reset for new attendings navigating autonomy, responsibility, leadership, and long-term career sustainability. The Core Problem: From Employee → Leader Throughout training, physicians are conditioned to: Follow systems created by others Meet externally defined metrics Wait for approval before acting New attendings quickly discover that success now requires: ✅ Independent decision-making ✅ Leadership skills ✅ Delegation and team management ✅ Ownership of career direction Being “the boss” does not mean being domineering—it means intentionally leading your career. Key Lessons From This Episode 1. Become the Boss of Your Career You are no longer being managed—you are managing: Your operating room Your clinic flow Your professional growth Your long-term career trajectory Leadership is a learned skill, not an innate personality trait. 2. Delegation Is a Clinical Skill Dr. Vertrees explains the five levels of delegation and why misaligned expectations create friction. High-functioning teams require: Clear instructions Defined autonomy levels Anticipation of next steps Psychological safety for staff Receiving help is as important as giving direction. 3. Reduce Mental Load to Improve Performance Small decisions accumulate into massive cognitive burden. Practical strategies: Create detailed preference cards Write procedure steps beforehand Build predictable workflows Organize systems so your team can anticipate needs Less mental clutter → smoother cases → better leadership presence. 4. Understand Your Stress Response New roles trigger fear—even in highly competent surgeons. Common responses include: Fight – irritability or hostility Flight – avoidance or procrastination Freeze – showing up but underperforming Fawn – over-agreeing to avoid conflict Both overworking and underworking can be fear responses. 5. Planning Is a Leadership Skill Successful attendings plan for results, not activities. Examples: Pre-complete clinic notes Block time for outcomes, not tasks Include preparation and documentation time in schedules Planning reduces overwhelm and protects cognitive energy. 6. Emotional Capacity Determines Career Longevity Dr. Vertrees introduces emotional capacity as the professional equivalent of physiologic reserve. Building emotional capacity allows surgeons to balance: stress uncertainty complications administrative pressure Skills like courage, pride, and purpose expand resilience. 7. Escape the Perfectionist Trap Physicians often operate in maladaptive perfectionism. Instead, use Gain vs. Gap Assessment: Identify three things that went well Then evaluate improvement opportunities Assessment builds confidence while sustaining growth. 8. Professional Reality: Someone Is Always Watching Peer review, administration, and legal oversight are constants. The goal: Maintain authenticity Practice professional integrity Document as if notes will be immediately reviewed Awareness—not fear—creates strong professional presence. 9. Relationships Are Emotional, Not Logical Drawing on insights echoed by Maya Angelou, people remember how you make them feel more than what you say. Key principles: Don’t trust blindly Avoid paranoia Lead interactions with emotional intelligence 10. Negotiation Is About Emotion Inspired by negotiation expert Chris Voss, Dr. Vertrees recommends entering difficult conversations assuming: 👉 You are missing important information. Curiosity creates safety, and safety unlocks productive negotiation. 11. Rethinking Money and Career Sustainability Financial anxiety often drives burnout decisions. Framework: Value → Money → Desired Outcome Sometimes you can bypass money entirely by using your value to gain: Time Flexibility Security Autonomy Think in decades, not contracts. The Bigger Message Don’t miss the point of your career. Medicine should provide: Meaning Purpose Contribution Sustainability A successful career is not just surviving medicine—it’s designing a life that works. Interactive Discussion Highlights Participants shared real-world challenges including: Maintaining authenticity in unsupportive environments Navigating workplace politics Administrative decisions affecting patient care Learning to investigate systems instead of internalizing blame Actionable Takeaways Create OR preference cards and procedure checklists Write procedure steps before cases Plan weekly schedules based on outcomes and feelings Pre-complete clinic documentation when possible Perform regular Gain vs. Gap self-assessments Document patient gratitude to maintain perspective Write notes assuming immediate review Upcoming Opportunities 📅 Free Career Protection Call — April 14 at 6 PM Central Featuring healthcare attorney Amanda Hill Register HERE:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_QfkL13UNQCC3avfp-jZdCg Topics include: Contract awareness Legal protections Exit strategy planning Career security

    1h 9m

  3. MAR 30

    Ep 224 Protecting your career before you need to with Amanda HIll, JD

    90 Day Notice Returns: Protecting Your Career Before You Need To Register for the free call 14 April at 6pm central here In this episode, Dr. Amy Vertrees and healthcare attorney Amanda Hill announce the return of Season 4 of the 90 Day Notice program, launching April 14th. Originally created after a wave of unexpected physician layoffs, 90 Day Notice was designed to help doctors protect their careers, navigate workplace challenges, and regain professional agency. Today, the stakes feel even higher. Across the country, physicians are reporting: Sham peer reviews Terminations “for cause” Sudden RVU changes Leadership pressure and reputational risk This episode explains why doctors need a proactive strategy before problems escalate — and how physicians can learn to advocate for themselves without immediately resorting to lawyers, job changes, or burnout-driven decisions. 🩺 Why This Conversation Matters Medical training teaches clinical excellence — but rarely teaches: Career navigation Institutional politics Reputation management Communication leverage Self-advocacy inside healthcare systems Through her work with the BOSS Business of Surgery Series, Dr. Vertrees focuses on closing these hidden gaps in physician professional development. Meanwhile, Amanda Hill brings insight from representing over 1,000 physicians nationwide, offering real-world legal patterns doctors rarely recognize until they are already in crisis. Their combined perspective reveals an important truth: 👉 When doctors feel something is wrong at work — they are usually right. ⚖️ Real Workplace Scenarios Discussed Amanda shares recent client experiences, including: A physician called into a CMO meeting after a concerning internal report RVU reductions signaling possible institutional push-out Doctors unknowingly having cases built against them Rather than reacting defensively, the program teaches physicians how to: Re-engage strategically Influence professional perception Maintain dignity and leverage while employed Create options instead of acting from fear 🧠 The Psychological Side of Surgical Practice Dr. Vertrees explores the emotional impact of complications — particularly how they often occur in clusters and trigger: Self-doubt Loss of confidence Shame responses Thoughts of leaving medicine entirely Many surgeons don’t realize how workplace narratives form around them — or how much influence they actually have over those narratives. 90 Day Notice focuses on expanding emotional capacity, communication skill, and professional authority so physicians can lead their careers intentionally. 💡 Why “Just Get a Lawyer” Isn’t Always the Answer Amanda explains when legal counsel helps — and when expensive legal consultations may actually reduce a physician’s leverage. Instead, doctors learn how to: Build strategic positioning while still employed Use communication as protection Develop a proactive game plan Turn current jobs into training grounds for future opportunity Success stories include physicians who went from feeling targeted to receiving retention offers after transforming how they showed up professionally. 👩‍⚕️ Who 90 Day Notice Is For This program may be right for you if: You wouldn’t accept your current job if offered today You sense organizational changes affecting your role You feel stuck, scrutinized, or undervalued You’re considering leaving medicine or going locums You want control over your career again Rather than immediately changing jobs, participants learn how to first transform their existing situation — often avoiding the significant financial costs of transition, including tail coverage, relocation, and legal fees. 📚 What the Program Includes Participants receive: Weekly live coaching calls Legal education + surgical coaching perspective Email coaching support Recorded sessions for flexibility A confidential physician community A proven 90-day framework developed across multiple program seasons Accessible nationwide, the program blends real-world legal strategy with mindset and leadership coaching tailored specifically for physicians. 🔗 Action Steps & Resources ✅ Register for the free kickoff call beginning April 14 👉 Visit Guard My Practice or 90 Day Notice ✅ Learn more about physician professional development 👉 Explore the BOSS Business of Surgery Series ⏱ Episode Chapters 00:00 — Why 90 Day Notice is returning 00:49 — The hidden gap in residency training 01:43 — Real physician workplace cases 02:29 — Complications and confidence loss 03:10 — Defensive reactions vs strategic action 06:17 — The program’s unique legal + coaching model 08:33 — When lawyers help (and when they don’t) 14:23 — Physician transformation stories 16:46 — Who this program is designed for 18:17 — The true cost of job changes 20:38 — Program structure and support  Register for the free call 14 April at 6pm central here

    22 min

  4. MAR 23

    Ep 223: The real cost of hospital employment with Dr. Mark Shashikant

    Episode Description: What is the real cost of hospital employment for surgeons—and is it as “safe” as it seems? In this episode of the Boss Business of Surgery Series, Dr. Amy Vertrens sits down with plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Shashikant to explore his journey from military medicine at Walter Reed to civilian practice, and ultimately toward greater autonomy and entrepreneurial thinking. Dr. Shashikant shares a candid look at the transition out of the military, including the dramatic increase in compensation—and how high salaries and signing bonuses can create “golden handcuffs” that keep physicians stuck in misaligned roles. He also breaks down the realities of hospital-employed practice, from intense trauma call schedules to the hidden expectations of unpaid administrative work. This conversation dives deep into the business of medicine, including how surgeons generate far more value than they are often credited for—especially through downstream revenue that hospitals rarely acknowledge. The COVID-19 pandemic became a pivotal moment, exposing the imbalance in employed physician contracts and challenging the assumption that hospitals carry all the risk. From there, Dr. Shashikant began rethinking everything—from compensation models to long-term career strategy. You’ll also hear how his practice evolved toward cosmetic surgery, why reimbursement changes are reshaping the future of surgical specialties, and what physicians should consider if they’re thinking about private practice or ownership. In this episode, we cover: Military to civilian transition for physicians Hospital-employed surgeon realities and burnout The “golden handcuffs” of physician compensation Understanding downstream revenue and true value Contract negotiation strategies for doctors Non-competes, productivity models, and leverage Cosmetic vs. reconstructive surgery economics Why no job in medicine is truly “safe” Physician entrepreneurship and practice ownership If you’re a surgeon or physician navigating early or mid-career decisions, this episode will give you a clearer understanding of your value—and how to take control of your career.

    37 min

  5. MAR 16

    Ep. 222 Women in Surgery: Navigating Challenges and Triumphs

    Episode Summary What does it really take to build a successful career as a woman in surgery? In this episode of BOSS Business of Surgery, host Dr. Amy Vertrees sits down with the editors of the new book Women in Surgery: Navigating Challenges and Triumphs to discuss the real stories behind surgical careers. Instead of theoretical advice, this book shares honest experiences from surgeons across generations—covering imposter syndrome, mentorship, leadership, motherhood, advocacy, and resilience. The conversation explores how women surgeons support each other, challenge broken systems, and continue shaping the future of the profession. What You'll Learn • Why surgical careers rarely follow a smooth path • How imposter syndrome shows up at every career stage • Why mentorship and sponsorship are essential in surgery • The reality of balancing surgical careers and family life • What it means to advocate for patients—even when it's difficult • How resilience evolves from early career to senior leadership Stories Highlighted in the Book The book includes stories from a wide range of contributors—from surgical pioneers to modern leaders. One powerful chapter by breast surgeon Beth Dupree describes becoming a whistleblower after discovering missed cancer diagnoses at her institution, demonstrating the courage sometimes required to advocate for patients. Another chapter highlights pioneering burn surgeon Mary Lou Patton, representing the generation of women who helped open the doors for those who followed. Editor Perspectives Each editor shares personal experiences reflected in the book. Dr. Kahyun Yoon-Flannery discusses the emotional experience of losing a patient who had become a close connection during treatment. Dr. Maureen Moore reflects on raising four children while building a surgical career and the importance of a supportive partner. Dr. Asanthi Ratnasekara explores the importance of surgical partnerships and how finding supportive colleagues can make or break a career. Key Themes from the Episode Imposter syndrome affects surgeons at every level There is no perfect balance between career and life Women surgeons often succeed through strong professional networks Difficult conversations and disagreements are part of meaningful collaboration Sharing stories helps future surgeons navigate their careersFind the book here.

    34 min

  6. MAR 9

    Ep. 221 Ask the CMO Part 2: Dr. Claudia Emami talks credentials and peer review

    What New Attendings Need to Know About Credentialing, Peer Review, and Protecting Your Career Guest: Dr. Claudia Emami Starting your first job as an attending physician involves navigating systems that residency rarely teaches you about. In this episode, Dr. Claudia Emami joins the BOSS Business of Surgery Series to explain how hospital credentialing works, how peer review actually functions, and what physicians should understand to protect their careers. Dr. Emami walks through the credentialing process required for physicians who want to practice in hospitals, including verification of training, licensure, malpractice history, and case logs. For surgeons and proceduralists, documenting recent cases is essential, and when case volume is insufficient, hospitals may require proctoring before granting full privileges. A key point discussed in the episode is that having a job contract does not guarantee hospital privileges. Credentialing is a separate process that must be approved by the hospital’s credentialing committee and medical staff leadership. The conversation also explores Ongoing Professional Practice Evaluation (OPPE) and Focused Professional Practice Evaluation (FPPE)—the systems hospitals use to review complications, outcomes, and performance trends. These processes feed into broader reporting systems, including the National Practitioner Data Bank. Dr. Emami explains how peer review works when complications occur and outlines how concerns may escalate through departmental review, quality committees, and medical staff leadership. In more serious situations, physicians may face additional proctoring, monitoring, or privilege restrictions. The episode also addresses professional realities that new attendings often overlook—such as the importance of building relationships throughout the hospital. Developing strong connections with the chair of surgery, chief medical officer, medical staff office, and OR teams can be critical to navigating complex situations. Finally, Dr. Emami emphasizes professional resilience. Career challenges, complications, and difficult reviews happen to nearly every surgeon at some point. Understanding the systems, participating in peer review, and maintaining perspective can help physicians recover from setbacks and continue to build successful careers. Key Takeaways A signed job contract does not guarantee hospital privileges Surgeons must maintain accurate case logs and documentation Proctoring is common and often required when privileges are new Physicians should understand peer review, OPPE, and FPPE processes Strong professional relationships within the hospital are essential Setbacks in credentialing or peer review are challenging but not career-ending

    1h 2m

  7. MAR 2

    Ep 220 Successfully navigating a military medicine career with Dr. Andrew Schlussel

    🎙️ Navigating a Successful Military Surgical Career With Dr. Andrew Schlussel In this episode of the BOSS Business of Surgery Series, Dr. Amy Vertrees interviews Andrew Schlussel, colorectal surgeon, Army veteran, and co-editor of The SAGES Manual for Navigating a Successful Military Surgical Career. Dr.Schlussel  shares insights from his 15 years on active duty in the U.S. Army, his transition to the reserves, and his experience building a fulfilling and dynamic military surgical career. This conversation is both practical and deeply personal — covering everything from surgical volume and research opportunities to LGBTQ+ service and retirement planning. 🔎 In This Episode, We Discuss: 🇺🇸 Building a Military Surgical Career ROTC beginnings and returning to medicine through HPSP Training at Tripler Army Medical Center Deployments to Afghanistan, time in Iraq and Syria Serving in Korea, Fort Lewis, and Fort Eisenhower Transitioning from active duty to the reserves Dr.Schlussel shares how military training provided not just clinical skills, but leadership experience in quality improvement, root cause analysis, and systems-based practice. 📘 Why This Book Was Needed The idea for The SAGES Manual came after Dr.Schlussel found his Army Officer’s Guide while cleaning out his closet after leaving active duty. He realized: Military medicine needed its own playbook. The book was intentionally developed as a tri-service resource — benefiting Army, Navy, and Air Force surgeons alike — and was created collaboratively with leaders involved in Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) military initiatives. ⚙️ The Truth About Surgical Volume in the Military A common concern: lower surgical volume. Dr.Schlussel reframes this as opportunity: Time for research NIH collaboration Global health engagement (including the Wilkins Fellowship) Creative academic and leadership projects Quality improvement and systems innovation His key message: Persistence is everything in the military system. You may hear “no” repeatedly — but success often comes to those who continue asking the right questions. 💼 Employment Flexibility: ODEs, URSAs, and MTAs Military surgical careers have evolved. Dr.Schlussel explains: Off-Duty Employment (ODE) URSAs (utilizing civilian colonoscopy suites) MTAs (taking acute care call at civilian hospitals) These opportunities are significantly more available than they were 10–15 years ago — but require understanding military legal frameworks and approval processes. Current reserve bonuses for surgeons: 💰 $75,000 per year with a two-year minimum commitment 🌈 LGBTQ+ Service in the Military One of the most powerful parts of this episode is Dr.Schlussel's personal experience serving under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” ROTC contracts in 2000–2001 included clauses prohibiting identifying as homosexual. He served closeted for years. Following repeal, he observed gaps in military physicians’ understanding of LGBTQ+ healthcare — including knowledge of PrEP and inclusive care practices. As former president of the Association of Gay and Lesbian Surgeons and Allies, he emphasizes: Inclusive environments require both cultural awareness and clinical competence. 📝 Preparing for Retirement or Separation Dr.Schlussel strongly recommends: Start preparing one year earlier than required Carefully review your DD-214 Utilize Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) Take advantage of transition programs (college courses, certifications, Lean Sigma training) Once the DD-214 is signed, changes are extremely difficult. 🏥 Working at the VA Dr. Schlussel discusses his experience serving at the VA — both as a volunteer and paid staff. He explains: Differences between DOD and VA funding models Communication challenges between systems The deep fulfillment of caring for veterans He also highlights: Priority hiring for veterans Ability to “buy back” military time toward federal retirement TSP rollover benefits 📍 Finding His Current Role After relocating to Jacksonville for his husband’s practice, Dr. Schlussel contacted every colorectal surgeon in the area — demonstrating the same persistence he advocates. He now: Works in Jacksonville Continues reserve service Plans to coach and mentor military surgeons 📚 Resources & Links The SAGES Manual for Navigating a Successful Military Surgical Career (Springer, 20% discount available; proceeds support SAGES) Connect with Dr.Schlussel on Instagram: @rainbow_scalpel Email: Andrew.T.Schlussel@gmail.com  Attend the annual Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) meeting Free for active duty personnel Reduced membership ($60–100 for attendings, free for residents) 💡 Key Takeaways ✔ Military surgical careers offer leadership development far beyond the operating room ✔ Lower volume can create space for innovation and research ✔ Persistence within the military system is critical ✔ Separation planning must begin early ✔ LGBTQ+ inclusion requires both policy change and medical education ✔ Military surgeons develop unique leadership and systems-thinking skills that translate powerfully into civilian careers

    41 min

  8. FEB 23

    Ep. 219 Ask the CMO Part 1: Administrative Structure of the hospital with Dr. Claudia Emami

    After a decade in private practice, Dr. Claudia Emami transitioned from pediatric surgeon to Chief Medical Officer—driven by burnout and a deep curiosity about how healthcare systems function. In this episode, she shares the behind-the-scenes structure of hospital operations that every surgeon should know but rarely learns in training. We cover: The difference between medical staff and hospital administration Why bylaws are your protection How credentialing and peer review actually work Who sits in the C-suite—and what they control Why surgeons should proactively build relationships with their CMO and chief of staff How committee participation builds influence and opportunity Healthcare is becoming increasingly complex. Mergers, acquisitions, and system growth mean that physicians who don’t understand governance risk losing their voice. This episode is a practical roadmap for surgeons who want to protect their autonomy, navigate hospital politics wisely, and possibly even explore leadership beyond the OR.

    30 min
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About

Welcome to BOSS Business of Surgery Series! This program was specifically designed to help surgeons learn concepts not taught in residency but necessary for a successful surgery career. We were not told that most of our job would be interacting with others. We thought it was about the technical success of surgery or the knowledge that we learn. But it is so much more. Difficult partners and colleagues. Dealing with complications. Negotiating with administration. Running a successful and efficient clinic that doesn’t take bleed into our home life. How to have a life outside of surgery But if we don’t learn these concepts, we will end up in a negative spiral that will lead us into misery. And all of the time we spent training for the job we love, that could be so rewarding, is lost. You know there has to be a solution out there. That you can’t be the only one unhappy or wondering if it is just you. It’s time for a program that addresses your specific problems run by someone who knows what you are going through. You need a fellow surgeon who knows the way. You need a surgeon who has been where you are and found her way out to the other side: -Loving surgery again -Not taking work home -finishing notes immediately after clinic and heading home on time -Not letting complications set you back -Interacting with others with confidence -Finally seeing that you can control the results you get at work and home You can find out more about Dr. Vertrees and her work at www.BOSSsurgery.com.

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