The AMA “Members Move Medicine” series profiles a wide variety of doctors, offering a glimpse into the passions of women and men navigating new courses in American medicine.
On the move with: Shishir Kumar Khetan, MD, who is an internist at Rockville Internal Medicine Group, which is part of Privia Medical Group.
AMA member since: 2004.
What inspired me to pursue a career in medicine: My interest in medicine began after a family member got severely injured cycling and I noticed how compassionate the hospital staff were in calming him and the rest of the family down. We felt such a relief and knew we were in good hands—I wanted to be able to give that comfort to others.
How I move medicine as a leader in my organization: I am constantly looking at ways to improve workflow in the office that will create a better experience for the patient and providers. If there is a pilot program, I will typically be first in line.
Career highlights:
- Board of Governors, Privia Medical Group.
- Chair, MD PCP Program for Privia Medical Group.
- Washingtonian Top Doctor.
Advice I’d give to those interested in pursuing a career in medicine: These days, health care is rapidly evolving and you must be able to adapt to the shifting requirements from payors. To be really successful with the younger population, you have to devise ways to make yourself more accessible, not just simply by being available for an office visit.
How my organization and I give back to the community: I have participated in several community fairs over the years that offer free screenings and advice. The office has donated supplies to several organizations that are involved in relief efforts.
Aspect of my organization’s work that means the most: The organization has made it a mission to reduce physician burnout by creating a better work-life balance for the providers. This is made possible because our Board consists of physicians rather than administrators—we have “skin in the game.”
How your organization is shaping the future of medicine: We are constantly looking at innovative uses of technology to help change the practice of medicine. Just in the last year, there was adaption of virtual scribes, including a trial of Google Glasses and creating an integrated platform in our electronic medical record to conduct video visits. These solutions have reduced the burden of charting on providers and created another way for patients to access their providers without having to physically come in for a visit.
Visit MembershipMovesMedicine.com to learn more about other AMA members who are relentlessly moving medicine through advocacy, education, patient care and practice innovation, and join or renew today.
