Kevin Cochran, MD, takes pride in prioritizing patient care "above all else," he told Becker's. But he has concerns about physicians' ability to provide quality care.
Dr. Cochran is the chief of staff at Mercy Health-Fairfield (Ohio) and chief of cardiology of Mercy Health-Cincinnati. Here, he discusses what concerns him about the field and what he is more excited about moving forward.
Question: What is the greatest challenge facing physicians right now?
Dr. Kevin Cochran: Physicians face the significant challenge of managing burnout to sustain long and fulfilling careers. Addressing this issue is crucial to ensuring the well-being and effectiveness of healthcare providers.
Q: What concerns you most about the healthcare field?
KC: One of the main concerns in the healthcare field is the shortage of physicians specializing in cardiology. This scarcity can have a direct impact on the quality of care provided to patients with heart-related issues, highlighting the importance of addressing this gap in the medical workforce.
Q: What new technology, innovation, or research are you most excited about?
KC: I am particularly thrilled about the advancements in AI technology and its potential to revolutionize healthcare practices. The integration of AI into the medical field has the capacity to transform patient care delivery and improve overall outcomes. It is an exciting prospect that holds promise for the future of healthcare.
Q: What is something your hospital or system is doing in heart care that you're most proud of?
KC: We take immense pride in our commitment to prioritizing patient care above all else. We continuously strive to implement new approaches and procedures in heart care to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. Notably, our participation in the TAVR 3-star program sets us apart as one of only 22 hospitals in the country to achieve this prestigious rating, highlighting our dedication to excellence in heart care.
Q: What is the best leadership advice you've received?
KC: A valuable leadership insight that resonates with me is the importance of always striving to do what is morally right. Additionally, the significance of hard work and leading by example have been key principles guiding my approach to leadership. By embodying integrity, diligence, and setting a positive example for others, effective leadership can be cultivated within any organization.