The healthcare industry differs from every other industry in a number of ways, and this means that healthcare professionals must approach their work with a unique set of professional skills and qualities. Here is a look at the top skills you need to thrive as a physician or other healthcare professional.
Resilience
You often hear the word “resilience” in medicine, and for good reason—physicians must be able to find a proper work-life balance in order to thrive in their work. Working in medicine can be taxing, but if you are resilient, it means that you can take on that burden without experiencing burnout. It also means that you can face high levels of pressure while still performing at your best. The most resilient healthcare professionals take care of themselves physically, practice stress relief, and debrief on difficult cases when necessary.
Flexibility
Similarly, healthcare professionals need to be able to forego personal needs when necessary. You’ll likely be asked to work long hours, work unusual hours, and give up everyday conveniences like a long lunch break or timely bathroom break. In addition, you will be working with people of all different ages, personalities, and backgrounds. You must be able to adapt accordingly so that you can have a positive interaction with everyone you encounter.
Time Management
Time management is a simple skill, yet it can make all the difference in the world of medicine. A healthcare organization must be able to rely on you as a professional, and that means having the time management skills necessary to be where you need to be, when you need to be there. It is also important in any leadership position to be able to delegate to others when in a time crunch.
Communication
Never is written or verbal communication as important as when it is a life or death matter, as is often the case in medicine. Every physician must be able to communicate messages clearly and succinctly to both staff and patients. In addition, every physician must have strong skills in listening, as listening is one of the most basic, yet powerful ways you can connect with a patient.
Collaboration
No healthcare professional works as an island. Staff collaborate with one another to make diagnoses and care for patients, and all healthcare professionals rely on the expertise and discoveries of others. As a physician, you must be willing to work well with others, share your expertise, and draw on the knowledge of others.
Compassion
A physician must always practice professionalism in the workplace, and yet there is no work that is more personal than medicine. A healthcare professional must be sensitive not only to the physical needs of their patients, but also to their emotional needs. In addition, he or she must always be willing to put people first. Having compassion truly helps patients get the best care possible, and it is a powerful tool for strengthening relationships with patients.