Introduction

When it comes to hospital administration, the hiring of doctors as managers or administrators is not a common practice. This article delves into the reasons behind this rare phenomenon and the challenges faced by physicians transitioning from medical practice to management roles.

Uncommon Practice and Reasons Behind It

In the context of healthcare, hospitals rarely hire doctors to fill managerial or administrative positions. The rarity of such appointments is highlighted by personal experiences, in which physician executives, although occasionally present, do not often remain in such roles for long due to performance issues or career changes. For instance, my own hospital's physician CEO, who served for over a decade before facing termination, exemplifies the complexity of this transition.

Physicians and Management: A Different Dynamic

Physicians who dabble in management often struggle to make the transition effective. Medical practice and administration are fundamentally different, requiring distinct skill sets. Physicians who aim to become effective managers must abandon their medical practice to focus fully on their new roles. This shift is crucial for success but often challenging for individuals deeply embedded in their medical careers.

Customers of Hospital Administrators

The role of a hospital administrator involves managing and serving multiple stakeholders. Unlike medical practice, where the primary customer is the patient, healthcare administration has a more complex clientele. Key among these stakeholders are the Board of Trustees, whose interests and expectations can significantly influence the administrator's role.

Challenges and Failures in the Transition

Physicians attempting to become administrators often fail to identify their primary customers and stakeholders. This oversight can lead to their failure in their new roles. The board of trustees, rather than patients, are the influential decision-makers in hospital management. Therefore, understanding and serving the interests of the board is paramount for success in this new capacity.

Conclusion

Doctors may occasionally be hired as hospital managers, but the transition from medical practice to administration is fraught with challenges. Success in this role requires a complete shift in focus and a deep understanding of the stakeholders that influence and govern the hospital's operations. Future physicians considering roles in hospital management should be aware of these difficulties and ensure they are prepared to make the necessary changes in their career path.