Why Coaching Is Medicine’s Missing LinkAnd How We’re Bringing It Forward

What happens when two coaches, both committed to moving medicine forward, sit down for a casual but meaningful chat? Insight. Alignment. And the kind of clarity that only comes from lived experience.

That’s exactly what happened in a recent conversation I had with Jeff Cohn, MD; fellow coach, advocate of the Medicine Forward framework, and someone who, like me, believes the future of healthcare lies in empowering people, not just treating problems.

We started off chatting about vacations, and how important it is to step away and recharge. Especially in this profession. Then the conversation naturally pivoted into purpose, and how coaching has emerged as a critical tool to help physicians not just survive, but thrive.

Recording the Real Conversations That Matter

As podcast hosts, we’re used to curating polished conversations. But this one was refreshingly unscripted. We hit record early, not for the sake of formality, but because some of the best material comes from candid reflection. And that’s what we shared: reflections on burnout, breakthroughs, and the cultural barriers physicians face when it comes to asking for support.

“Coaching still carries a stigma in medicine,” Jeff noted. “There’s this idea that it’s only for remediation. That needing a coach means something is wrong.”

And he’s absolutely right.

Reframing Coaching as Growth, Not Failure

Historically, coaching in medicine has been framed as corrective, something suggested after a negative patient survey or a performance concern. But we know better. Coaching is about growth, insight, clarity, and reclaiming agency.

In my work with Positive Intelligence (PQ), I’ve seen the power of coaching to reframe limiting beliefs, uncover internal saboteurs, and ignite self-leadership. During a recent event with the Nevada Physician Wellness Coalition, I helped guide over 60 physicians through these very principles. One physician, navigating a transition from private practice to locum tenens, shared how the "Judge" saboteur was weighing heavily on him during the change. That moment of recognition? That’s where real transformation begins.

Shifting Culture, One Coaching Conversation at a Time

Physicians are trained to be self-reliant. To power through. To never show weakness. But the truth? We all need a space to be human.

That’s what coaching offers.

Jeff and I also discussed how systemic support could amplify this impact. For example, integrating coaching with CME credit, something I’ve successfully done with PQ programs, can help physicians access coaching through existing education budgets. This approach lowers the financial barrier while legitimizing coaching as a recognized development tool.

But the real win? Changing the narrative.

Coaching isn’t a sign that something’s wrong, it’s a sign you’re ready to level up.

🧭 Medicine Forward: More Than a Concept

We also talked about Medicine Forward, a framework that emphasizes a proactive, holistic approach to healthcare. It’s not just about fixing broken systems or reacting to burnout. It’s about creating cultures of trust, curiosity, and collaboration.

Coaching fits seamlessly into this philosophy. It nurtures the inner leadership physicians need to navigate change, improve patient care, and preserve their own well-being.

And as Jeff said so perfectly, “There’s synergy here. This isn’t a one-off fix, it’s a movement.”

Final Thoughts

Whether it's through a recorded podcast, a spontaneous coaching session, or a quiet realization on a beach in Aruba or Oahu, the message is clear:

Coaching isn’t optional anymore. It’s essential.

To my fellow physicians: don’t wait until you're burnt out. Don’t assume you have to figure it all out alone. The resources are here. The community is growing. And the change starts with one conversation.

Let’s move medicine forward together.

👉 Have you worked with a coach before, or are you curious to try? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Comment below or DM me. Let’s keep the conversation going.

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