The last several months I have been reflecting on people who influence who I try to emulate as a physician, teacher and a leader. I remember as a resident being distraught as I realized with certainty that my patient was dying and that nothing I was doing was helping. I felt responsible and like a failure. And I remember my attending placing their hand on my shoulder and telling me clearly that there was nothing I could have done and that she was so proud of me for my compassionate care. I remember my mentor being angry at my decision to leave the institution and then calling to apologize and support my transition, laying the groundwork for what would be a career-long relationship. It is moments like these that underscore the essence of the quote that guides my excerpt today: “Each person must live their life as a role model for others,” as Rosa Parks once said.
Last month, I called on us to channel our collective resolve towards creating an exceptional learning and work environment by focusing on three critical domains: effective communication/feedback, role modeling/mentoring, and wellbeing. Today, I’d like to delve a little deeper into the importance of role modeling specifically. Why? Because we are all role models, consciously or not. We are being watched and emulated by our learners and colleagues every day. As such, role modeling is perhaps the most impactful of all our teaching methods but also one that is often underappreciated.
Medicine and science are continuously evolving, and excellence requires a commitment to lifelong learning. Role models demonstrate this commitment by actively pursuing their individual growth, valuing the incredible contributions of our academic mission, and staying up to date with the advancements that come from it. By sharing their passion for learning, these role models inspire others to recognize opportunities for growth and continuously strive for excellence in themselves and their work.
Role models also transmit the essential values and ethics that underpin the health and scientific professions. They exemplify empathy, humility, compassion, and respect for patients and colleagues. By demonstrating these qualities in their daily work, positive role models instill the importance of serving others and remind us all of the fundamental human element in what we are called to do.
Finally, and critically, role models play a pivotal role in breaking down barriers and challenging biases. They empower learners and colleagues to appreciate and respect differences in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, ability, and socioeconomic status, as well as differences in beliefs, fostering a culturally humble approach to healthcare and science. They are open to dialogue and differences of opinion. They work daily to exemplify inclusion with their actions, and a willingness to learn more about the experiences of others. They stand up in the face of mistreatment, bias, and disrespect.
Last month, we recognized the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a role model of service and compassion. We also released the report and next steps of our Task Force on Climate and Culture. In both of these spaces, the reality that we continue to fall short as role models, an institution, in healthcare, and as a society broadly, is apparent. Role models recognize that there is much still to be done. They recognize that they cannot be perfect – will not always live up to their goals as a role model and will get frustrated with the system. They will make mistakes and sometimes do things they are not proud of or things that cause them shame. But, great role models recognize their errors and shortcomings, apologize when they cause harm and make mistakes, and learn from the experience. And this last piece may be the most important of all role modeling characteristics, because it opens doors to everyone to be a role model and a contributor to making our work and learning environment better.
Ultimately, the impact of role modeling in medicine extends far beyond our learners – it ripples throughout the entire healthcare system and scientific community. By fostering a strong commitment to excellence, lifelong learning, professionalism, and inclusion, role models create a positive influence that benefits patients, colleagues, and society as a whole. Thank you for serving as role models who shape the future of medicine, fueling a generation of skilled, compassionate, and dedicated healthcare professionals and researchers. And remember, you are ALL role models – whether you want to be or not! A recent relevant scholarly article about negative faculty role modeling can be found here.