Rudeness in health care is harmful

Johny Van Aerde, MD, PhD

Rudeness can have serious consequences in health care. Although rudeness has been studied mainly in the context of sustained, abusive behaviour and incivility by a subgroup of medical practitioners, recent evidence indicates that even more subtle incidents of rudeness displayed by any member of the health care team, the patient, or the patient’s family affect team performance and patient safety and outcomes. This paper reviews the psychological and sociological consequences of rudeness in the health care setting, and offers suggestions on how physicians can step up as leaders to prevent or handle such situations. read article

An ideal future for Quebec’s health care system

Ruth Vander Stelt, MD

In the first article of this series, I sketched a portrait of the current reality on Quebec’s health care scene, describing the symptoms of deep affliction within our system. Here, I envision a desirable future: a health care system that would be balanced with respect to quality, accessibility, safety, and affordability. In the next issue, I will propose a way to achieve the desired result, using an evidence-based approach.  read article

Complexity leadership offers the right fit for physicians

Colleen Grady, DBA,

and C.R. (Bob) Hinings

Current leadership culture is based on an outdated command-and-control model that is familiar to all and not inspiring to any. The complex health care system requires a different leadership mindset and physicians who will lead. Complexity leadership may present a palatable alternative for physicians. This model encompasses operational, entrepreneurial, and enabling leadership. read article

Leading complex change: go slow to go fast

Michael Gardam, MD, and

Leah Gitterman, MHSc

In this article, we bring a complexity science perspective to health care leadership challenges, using hospital mergers as an example. In this case study, we draw heavily on our own experience working with organizations struggling with change. Unlike the traditional top-directed approach, we recommend starting slowly and engaging those affected by the coming changes to enable co-creation of the eventual solution. read article

REFLECTIONS: Thirty-five years before the mast

Peter W. Vaughan, MD

In the midst of what seems to be a health care “train wreck,” I hope to inspire others to see the great potential that lies ahead as health care continues to evolve rapidly. As medical leaders, we need the courage to meet the challenges and opportunities afforded by the convergence of biology and technology; yet we must also be realistic about mitigating the risks. read article

Book Review: How Hockey Can Save Healthcare

Stephen Pinney, MD

Lulu Publishing, 2016

Reviewed by Chris Carruthers, MD

read review