Our Guest:

• Dr. Joseph Savino – A distinguished professor of anesthesiology and a trailblazer in cardiac care, Dr. Savino’s journey from a young immigrant in Philadelphia to a leading voice in his field is nothing short of inspiring. His expertise and passion for mentoring future generations of physicians make him an essential figure in the conversation about the future of medicine and medical education.

In This Episode:

Dr. Najera and Dr. Savino discuss the critical issue of attracting more students to medical schools, amidst projections from the Association of American Medical Colleges that the U.S. could face a shortage of up to 86,000 physicians by 2036. Topics covered include:

• Dr. Savino’s Career Journey: From his early influences and mentors to his pioneering work in anesthesia and cardiac care, Dr. Savino reflects on what inspired him to pursue this specialty and the importance of role models in shaping his path.

• Encouraging Future Doctors: The conversation emphasizes the need to support students interested in medicine by creating opportunities and leveling the playing field, particularly for those from underserved and socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds.

• Mentorship and Diversity: Dr. Savino highlights the value of mentorship in his own career and the critical role it plays in helping students succeed. He also discusses the importance of diversity in medicine, sharing powerful stories that illustrate how diverse backgrounds contribute to better care and outcomes in communities with significant healthcare needs.

• The Evolving Landscape of Medical Education: With advances in technology and the integration of artificial intelligence, Dr. Savino provides insights into how medical education will evolve in the coming years. However, he emphasizes that human connection and hands-on care will always be at the heart of medicine.

Key Takeaways:

• Mentorship is key: Both mentors and role models are crucial in guiding and inspiring future generations of physicians.

• Diversity strengthens healthcare: A diverse workforce leads to better solutions and outcomes, especially in underserved communities.

• AI will enhance, not replace, human care: While technology and AI will play a larger role in medical education and diagnostics, hands-on patient care will remain vital.

Resources:

• The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) projections on the physician shortage