Chapter 9
The Provider’s Responsibility
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o far, I have described ways the healthcare system has impacted providers and have given some simple and inexpensive changes that could restore provider fulfillment and excitement. While the system, along with regulations and payment schemes, has undoubtedly made our lives less enjoyable, we are not exempt from blame for the current situation. In my experience, providers have abdicated their responsibility in many situations. We are, after all, central to healthcare delivery and not helpless or powerless to promote change! In some cases, we have abused the system to our advantage; in others, we have become egocentric and entitled. To be respected as part of a solution to the dysfunction in healthcare, we must set the example and take responsibility. Four key character traits are fundamental to providers being empowered to improve the system: humility, accountability, integrity, and leadership. I believe it is important to discuss these and to own our part in the current dysfunction. Before I get into these topics, and to help you understand the basis for my perspective, let me share my story with you.
My Story Where I was born doesn’t exist anymore. In 1953, my father, Jack, was deployed with Naval Intelligence in Alaska. I’m not sure he was in one of those if-I-told-you-I’d-have-to-kill-you jobs, but it was enough to keep him on station when I was born at the North Island Naval 125
