Shaping Tomorrow's Surgical Leaders:
91社区's Innovative Program Empowers Residents
By Melina Vassiliou
The Department of Surgery鈥檚 Division of Surgical Education or DOSE took a significant step forward this year by launching its first-ever leadership program specifically designed for surgical residents. This new initiative builds upon the Department鈥檚 existing strengths in surgical education and aims to fill a crucial gap in leadership training for future surgeons.
听
The program's launch demonstrates DOSE鈥檚 commitment to developing well-rounded surgical leaders who can excel not only in clinical skills but also in management, communication, and team leadership. By offering this leadership training, DOSE is addressing the evolving needs of modern healthcare, where surgeons are increasingly expected to take on leadership roles beyond the operating room.
听
This new program enhances the Department鈥檚 reputation for excellence in surgical training by complementing existing initiatives such as the Leadership Program for faculty surgeons in collaboration with the Desautels Executive Institute and the Surgical Scientist Program, which focuses on developing research skills during residency training. By addressing the unique leadership challenges faced by surgical residents, this program is poised to have a lasting impact on the field of surgery and patient care.
听
The introduction of this program also positions DOSE at the forefront of surgical education in Canada, joining other institutions like the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia in offering specialized leadership training for surgical residents. This initiative aims to reinforce the Department鈥檚 already strong reputation in surgical education and potentially attract top talent to its residency programs.
听
Composed of four comprehensive modules, each led by an expert instructor, the program was designed to address a critical need in surgical education, focusing on leadership skills that are essential for residents transitioning into roles of increasing responsibility.
- Leading Yourself and Others: Guides participants through various leadership models and skills, helping them identify and apply different leadership styles.
- Listening to Understand and Communicating for Growth: Focuses on effective communication, feedback mechanisms, and coaching skills.
- Collaboration and Teamwork: Explores team dynamics, psychological safety, and strategies for overcoming team dysfunctions.
- Communication Skills for Difficult Challenges: Addresses conflict resolution, negotiation, and handling difficult conversations.
Upon completing the program, our inaugural cohort of participants praised it as an "excellent and impactful leadership development experience." This feedback highlights the program's success in achieving its goals and equipping future surgical leaders with valuable skills.
The program's realization is a testament to the vision and tireless efforts of its original creators, including Christina Raneburger, Kevin Lachapelle, and the leadership program committee. We also appreciate the dedication of Justine Chamoun, Naser Muja, and many others who worked diligently to bring the program to our residents. Additionally, we extend our deepest gratitude to the Adair family for their generous support, which was instrumental in making this initiative possible.
We are delighted by the overwhelmingly positive feedback and look forward to offering the program again next year. As it continues to evolve, the program has the potential to establish a new benchmark for leadership development across a surgeon's career, from residency to faculty positions.
Melina Vassiliou, MD
Associate Chair, Education
Director, Division of Surgical Education (DOSE)
听
