This episode features Dr. Brian Wagers, Chief Quality Officer at Children's Health. Here, he discusses his background and what led him into pediatrics, advice for leaders stepping into new roles, what he’s currently focusing on, and more.
Summary
Interview with Dr. Brian Wagers, Chief Quality Officer at Children's Health
Dr. Brian Wagers, the Chief Quality Officer at Children's Health, has had a long career in healthcare, with his passion for pediatrics leading him down a path towards management and leadership. In this interview, he discusses his background, advice for new leaders, his focus on quality management, and more.
Background and Career Path
Dr. Wagers started his career wanting to become a pediatrician and was drawn to the fast-paced environment of the emergency department. His division chief recognized his potential and encouraged him to explore a career in quality management, which eventually led to him taking her position once she moved on. His desire to make quality better in healthcare led him to Children's Medical Center in Dallas, where he is currently the Chief Quality Officer.
Advice for New Leaders
Dr. Wagers stresses the importance of taking time to get to know staff and listening to their feedback when stepping into a new leadership role. Building trust is crucial, and he advises leading by influence rather than direction. He also encourages young physicians to build up their leadership skills through learning from mistakes, being humble, and looking towards their next success.
Focus on Quality Management
Dr. Wagers is currently focused on removing barriers for clinicians, allowing them to deliver the best possible care to patients. He believes that honing one's craft, both in medical skills and leadership skills, is crucial for professional development and for being presented with more opportunities. As Chief Quality Officer, he is dedicated to making quality better in healthcare and improving outcomes for patients and colleagues alike.
The Importance of People Skills
Dr. Wagers emphasizes the importance of developing people skills for both clinicians and leaders. The ability to read people and tailor messages to them is crucial for effective communication and collaboration. He believes that learning how to build relationships in healthcare is essential for success, both as a clinician and as a leader.
Note: This is an AI generated transcript, not edited by a staff writer and is solely intended for educational purposes. If you have any questions/concerns, reach out to podcasts@beckershealthcare.com
This episode aired on 05/09/2023 and can be listened here.
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