Gastroenterologists have many qualities, but when asked to single out the most important a practicing gastroenterologist chose commitment.
Ask a Gastroenterologist is a weekly series of questions posed to GI physicians around the country on business and clinical issues affecting the field of gastroenterology. We invite all gastroenterologists to submit responses.
Next week's question: Are you considering taking on any alternative payment models this year, such as cash-pay or bundled payments?
Please submit responses to Carrie Pallardy at cpallardy@beckershealthcare.com by Thursday, April 9, at 5 p.m. CST.
Larry Good, MD, FACG, founder, CEO Good Pharmaceutical Development, CEO, Compassionate Care Center of New York: The most important quality in a gastroenterologist is commitment. Commitment to his patient's welfare, commitment to best practices and standards and commitment to improved health and patient outcomes.
A physician's medical practice must have core values and a mission statement. These should be the commitment to provide comfort and healing while keeping a patient’s best interest foremost.
Although gastroenterology has morphed into a procedure oriented specialty, the core values of patient care remain at its center. These values and a commitment to continued learning and expanding one's skill sets and knowledge foundation will ensure excellence in patient care.