Some of the most memorable and rewarding experiences of my career involve my participation in overseas humanitarian operations. As executive vice president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, I was privileged to have traveled with a group of surgeons to Quito, Ecuador, with an Operation Smile surgical mission. Children who suffer from cleft lip or palate or other congenital deformities can be socially isolated and often suffer additional medical complications, such as malnourishment. Surgeries to repair these deformities were relatively quick, but the effect was dramatic.
What also struck me as a health care administrator was the inspiring level of teamwork that took place during these operations. It was fascinating to observe members at every level of the care team step out of their normal roles for the good of the group, and ultimately for the well-being of the patient. Each member of the multi-disciplinary team – which included...
