In the dynamic world of healthcare, physicians often find themselves at pivotal crossroads, contemplating how to make a more significant impact beyond traditional clinical practice. Dr. Miguel Villagra, the host, sat down with Dr. Swarna Balasubramaniam, a distinguished colorectal surgeon and founder of Noleus Technologies, in a recent episode of the Adoctorsjourney Podcast: Navigating Life and Medicine with Coaching and Healthcare Innovation. They discussed her remarkable transition from clinician to entrepreneur. 

 Image Credit: https://www.noleustechnologies.com/

Charting an Unexpected Path 

Dr. Balasubramaniam's journey is anything but conventional. Born in India, she pursued her education in Boston and completed her surgical training at the prestigious Mayo Clinic. Despite her rigorous medical background, entrepreneurship wasn't initially part of her plan. An internship at the National Cancer Institute became a turning point for her career, sparking her interest in innovation in medicine. There, she met a physician-researcher whose passion for innovation ignited her own interest in medicine. This chance meeting shifted her focus from chemistry to healthcare, showing how unexpected events can change our career trajectories. 

The Power of Curiosity 

A recurring theme in Dr. Balasubramaniam's story is the transformative power of curiosity. She believes that being inquisitive and open to exploring new ideas is crucial for innovation in medicine.

"Curiosity leads to asking the right questions, which in turn fosters groundbreaking solutions," she shared.

Physicians venturing into entrepreneurship can benefit from fostering curiosity, which drives meaningful changes in healthcare. 

Discovering Your 'Why' 

During the conversation, Dr. Villagra emphasized the importance of identifying a compelling "why" as the foundation for any significant career move. This concept resonated deeply with Dr. Balasubramaniam. She chose to move from surgery to founding a company to have a greater impact on patient care.

"It's not about leaving something behind; it's about moving towards something that aligns with your passion and purpose," she explained.

Understanding your "why" provides the motivation and clarity needed to navigate the challenges of a new venture. 

Embracing the Challenges of Entrepreneurship 

Both Dr. Balasubramaniam and Dr. Villagra recognized that entrepreneurship poses challenges, such as the prevalent risk of burnout among healthcare professionals. Dr. Balasubramaniam emphasized the significance of addressing any underlying burnout before embarking on an entrepreneurial journey. She recommended that physicians, instead of just cutting work hours, should engage in activities that reignite their passion for medicine.

"Find joy in what you do, whether it's through patient interactions, research, or innovation," she urged.

Redefining success and prioritizing meaningful contributions enable physicians to preserve their well-being while striving for ambitious objectives. 

A Non-Linear Journey to Impact 

Dr. Balasubramaniam's journey highlights that there is no one-size-fits-all approach in medicine or entrepreneurship. Her journey exemplifies the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and remaining true to one's core values. For physicians considering a similar transition, her story serves as inspiration to explore new avenues while remaining connected to the essence of why they chose medicine in the first place. 

Looking Ahead: Embrace Change and Innovation 

In the constantly changing healthcare landscape, physicians must embrace change. This includes adopting new technologies, engaging in research, and exploring entrepreneurship. Embracing curiosity and staying aligned with your purpose can lead to profound personal and professional transformations. 

Join the Conversation 

Are you a physician pondering your next career move or eager to ignite your entrepreneurial spirit? Subscribe to the Adoctorsjourney Podcast for more inspiring stories and actionable insights from medical professionals who have navigated the path of innovation. Join our community as we explore the future of healthcare together, and let's embark on this journey of growth and discovery! 

Share Your Experiences: Connect with us on social media using the hashtag #Adoctorsjourney. 

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