Here's how you can build confidence and overcome self-doubt while working with physicians.

It's important to clearly understand your responsibilities and the scope of your role within the team when working with physicians. This involves not only knowing what is expected of you but also recognizing your strengths and understanding how they can be leveraged to contribute to the team's overall goals.

What a blessing to work with providers. I have worked with them since 1972. My great grandfather was a doctor who made house calls on horses in WV. When I was out of Radiology school, I worked with a family medicine provider. He taught me so much beyond radiology, such as phlebotomy, EKG, Pharmacy, Physician Assistant work, such as suturing, casting of broken bones, real patient care and compassion. He knew I had a passion for learning. I asked questions, volunteered for anything he asks of his staff. I highly respected him (he knew it) and I built trust by striving for perfection so he would be proud of the care. My demonstrating competence gave him more time. Providers want to practice medicine and time with patients.

An amazing development in healthcare over the last few decades has been the emergence of multi-disciplinary teams. Evidence has consistently demonstrated that multi-disciplinary teams - consisting of professionals from various backgrounds in medicine, such as nurses, physical therapists, pharmacists, and doctors from different specialties - lead to much better patient outcomes. It is important to recognize that your role is invaluable in the clinical workflow of the patient. You are a necessary part of the team, just as much as any other member. Your presence on the team directly contributes to better outcomes for your patients and so embrace your unique skills and perspective.

In summary, my role as a Neurodiagnostic Technician is integral to the Neuropsychology Department. By conducting precise neurodiagnostic tests, ensuring patient care, maintaining equipment, and collaborating with the medical team, I contribute significantly to the accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of neurological disorders. My work supports improved patient outcomes and advances our understanding of neurological conditions.

Comprender su rol dentro del equipo de atención médica es fundamental para contribuir eficazmente al bienestar del paciente. Cada profesional aporta habilidades y perspectivas únicas que son indispensables para una atención integral. Al conocer y valorar sus responsabilidades y cómo estas se integran con las funciones de otros miembros del equipo, como los médicos, se fortalece la colaboración y se mejora la calidad de la atención. Este reconocimiento de la importancia de cada rol no solo proporciona un sentido de propósito, sino que también impulsa la confianza y la comunicación efectiva dentro del equipo.

Before interacting with physicians, I ensure I am well-informed about patient cases and administrative tasks at hand. This involves reviewing medical records, understanding treatment plans, and staying up-to-date with the latest healthcare practices relevant to my role. Being prepared allows me to communicate effectively and contribute meaningfully to discussions, boosting my self-assurance.

When interacting with a physician in a professional capacity, keep the following in mind: a practicing physician is busy - they are either coming from seeing patients or on their way to see a patient. So, make sure your points are succinct. Physicians are experts in their respective fields, and as a by-product of their intensive training (which can last up to 13-14 years for some doctors), they often have cross-industry experience. It is crucial that you know your own subject matter well. While no one expects you to be an expert in the physician's field, it is important to have a strong grasp of your own area of expertise. At the same time, consider how any "ask" you may have will impact the physician and their work.

Preparation is key. Always come prepared with the necessary knowledge and materials for any interactions or meetings with physicians. This preparation will not only boost your confidence but also show your commitment and professionalism.

Clear communication is essential when working with physicians. I practice articulating my thoughts and questions concisely, avoiding jargon unless it’s commonly understood. I am always ready to clarify any points if needed. Good communication also involves active listening—I pay close attention to what the physician says, which helps me respond appropriately and build mutual respect. Over time, this strengthens my working relationships and increases my confidence.

Constructive feedback is invaluable for personal and professional growth. I actively seek feedback from physicians on my performance, demonstrating my commitment to excellence and willingness to learn. Receiving and acting on feedback helps improve my skills and self-confidence. I view feedback as an opportunity for development rather than criticism.

Empathy is a powerful tool in any healthcare setting. By practicing empathy, I better understand the challenges physicians face, such as time constraints and complex patient care decisions. This perspective helps reduce feelings of intimidation as I recognize that physicians, too, are human and working towards the same goals as I am. Empathy fosters a supportive work environment and makes collaborative efforts more effective and rewarding.

One of the most difficult but valuable lessons I learned in my journey as a physician working with other physicians is to keep the mindset that "everything is for the good of the patient." As a junior doctor, during rounds, we would occasionally receive stern feedback from our seniors. Though painful at the time, these experiences built resilience and made us realize the importance of what we are doing. Everyone is learning in medicine. The best senior consultants are those who stay up-to-date with the latest research papers and are always ready to teach or be taught. Approach every experience as a learning opportunity that you can grow and learn from.

You can build confidence and overcome self-doubt while working with physicians by developing a skill they can use to enhance their practice and patient outcomes. When I saw clinic physicians lacked business sense and wanted a cash-based practice, I honed my skills and learned how to create programs based on clinical outcomes that gave physicians time and money freedom. It turns out to be a win-win-win situation.