19. Dr. Bruce Perler

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Dr. Bruce Perler, the Julius H. Jacobson II Professor and Vice Chair Emeritus for Clinical Operations and Financial Affairs in the Department of Surgery at the Johns Hopkins Hospital and School of Medicine, shares his journey from a middle-class upbringing to becoming a prominent figure in vascular surgery and academic leadership. With insights into his surgical training, mentorship from figures like Dr. David Sabiston, and his experiences at Johns Hopkins, Dr. Perler discusses how passion, strong mentorship, and relationship-building have shaped his approach to leadership. He reflects on the essential role of financial management in healthcare and the importance of clinician-administrator collaboration, offering valuable advice for aspiring leaders. His journey is a testament to dedication, resilience, and a commitment to advancing the field.

Takeaways

• Dr. Perler's upbringing instilled a strong work ethic.
• Mentorship plays a crucial role in surgical training.
• The importance of teaching and engaging with students.
• Building relationships with colleagues is vital for success.
• Transitioning to academic surgery can be serendipitous.
• Internal candidates face unique challenges in leadership roles.
• Changing institutions can facilitate career advancement.
• Understanding the business side of medicine is essential.
• Collaboration between clinicians and administrators is key.
• Passion for one's work leads to fulfillment and success.