Leadership Mindset and Training - the Physicians Leadership Academy

Bonnie Pugh, MD, Pediatrician

I signed up for the Physician’s Leadership Academy (PLA) earlier this year to gain knowledge and skills to become a better leader in my pediatric practice and for my company, Central Ohio Primary Care (COPC). What I did not expect was to learn so much more about myself, my communication style and how to improve my work-life balance.

The PLA is a holistic approach that guides physicians in areas including mindset, meditation, workplace culture and the art of hosting meetings. I have started to learn these skills in the three months since the program started in September. The reason why I say “started” is because this process is continually evolving, and I am learning to refine what I have learned based on different situations.

The PLA meets monthly for 10 months. There are 2 physician retreat weekends included in that time-period, where we complete more intensive training. Our current class is 19 physicians from varying backgrounds – pediatrics, OB/Gyn, surgery, EM, internal medicine, FP, ophthalmology, and more! Our first physician retreat was in October, and we learned elements of “The Art of Hosting and Harvesting Conversations that Matter”. What I loved most about this experience is that we all really immersed and opened ourselves up to one another as we learned how to use “The Art of Hosting” curriculum. This training on how to run an effective meeting with a purpose and how to ask poignant questions has already changed how I interact with my partners, staff and families at my office.

Doctors listen to a presenter during December’s PLA class session

When the PLA started in September, we were a group of physicians and staff that barely knew each other. In just three months, we have shared so many experiences in our offices, our lives and learned together how to resolve issues that arise in the workplace and at home. We have also made new friends and formed a network for ourselves amongst one anther. I have texted and emailed PLA members for advice or suggestions for meeting ideas and formats and have been given feedback. We also each have a mentor that we meet with to help navigate us in our journey of improving our leadership and executive skills, which is something we physicians may not have much training in. This program has armed me with a new skillset that I am excited to utilize.

If you are interested in becoming more mindful and intentional in your workplace, your life and with others, this program is for you. I have already noticed a shift in how I approach challenges on a daily basis, and I am so excited for the rest of our learning together. Physicians interested in learning more about the PLA can visit this page. Enrollment will open for the 2019/2020 class beginning February 1st.