Cathie Jones, MD
The course work helped me to feel more at ease in talking with administrators. I understand the terminology they use better, have a better appreciation for what they are balancing and feel that I can better advocate for the resources we need to meet our collective goals for both our patients and our teams.
As a pediatric anesthesiologist at Boston Children’s Hospital, I care for children of all ages who need invasive procedures, imaging or other studies. I spend a large portion of my time caring for children with cancer which I find very rewarding. Outside of my clinical duties, I am the Director of Quality Improvement for my division of Perioperative Anesthesia with over 70 anesthesiologists. When not at work, I love to garden, growing mostly flowers and berries. In cooler weather, I enjoy sewing & quilting. My husband, four children & I enjoy spending time together seeing Broadway shows, enjoying art or crafting.
Why did you decide to take the MHCDS program?
As I added administrative roles to my clinical work, I realized I needed additional training to be more effective and a better leader. I looked at other programs but didn’t feel like that coursework was the right mix of what I wanted to learn. The blend of courses within MHCDS provided me with business and leadership principles, along with strategies to influence and improve healthcare. I appreciate that the program and courses are designed for those who have been working in healthcare and come with experience. The program was also recommended to me by my department chair.
Has your job changed since starting the program?
A few months into my coursework at MHCDS, I took on my role in Quality Improvement for my division. The course work helped me to feel more at ease in talking with administrators. I understand the terminology they use better, have a better appreciation for what they are balancing and feel that I can better advocate for the resources we need to meet our collective goals for both our patients and our teams.
How have you used the MHCDS experience/skills/knowledge you have gained so far?
We are embarking on a project to decrease medication errors in anesthesia in our procedural locations by utilizing newer IT resources. Our discussions around human centered innovation, workflow bottle necks, and how to manage change are proving instrumental as we are laying the groundwork to implement this change in our workflow.
Is there anything else that you would tell a friend or colleague who was considering the MHCDS program?
Consider it! While its been a busy year, I am gaining so much that is helping me now and into the future. I feel better prepared for my administrative duties and that I can influence change for the better.