The role of department chair

The leadership position of a departmental chair can be a positive and rewarding opportunity. These rewards principally stem from the success of the faculty, trainees, staff, and everyone supporting the department. With healthcare reform and the constraints of the federal budget, increasing attention and time has become directed toward administrative management. Formal courses and training in executive leadership and business management may be helpful in enhancing knowledge and skills in these disciplines. There are multiple and often competing constituencies and agendas requiring thoughtful strategies to achieve departmental goals. The objectives of the chair are advancing patient care, education, and research as well as a continual presence and visibility in the department. The true excellence of a department is achieved by the innovation of its faculty and trainees.

Duke Scholars

Author Christopher G. Willett Radiation Oncology