Balanced and Inclusive: Building Resilient Healthcare Workplaces
Guests
Isabel Berwick
Dr Fatih Mehmet Gul
Healthcare professionals face daily operational changes, high-stress environments, and increasing demands—leading to burnout if not managed effectively.
In this episode of the Chief Healthcare Officer Podcast, Dr. Fatih Mehmet Gul is joined by Isabel Berwick, host of the Financial Times’ Work It podcast to explore workplace resilience, leadership, work-life balance, and diversity in healthcare with insights into how professionals can future-proof their careers while maintaining well-being. In addition, they discuss how leaders can foster resilient teams, create psychologically safe workplaces, and support diversity and inclusion to improve engagement and staff retention.
For healthcare leaders, professionals, and HR specialists, this episode provides practical strategies for maintaining a sustainable career while ensuring organizational success.
Unable to listen to the full episode? Fast-forward to the key discussion points via the players above or read the key takeaways:
Adapting to Constant Change in Healthcare: Change is inevitable in healthcare. Therefore, medical professionals should reframe uncertainty as an opportunity and rely on strong teamwork. Effective communication is crucial in managing workplace stress.
Building Resilient Healthcare Teams: Resilience is both individual and organizational—leaders must create a culture where staff feels heard. Additionally, leaders should recognize early signs of burnout to support their teams proactively. Psychological safety is essential—staff should feel comfortable voicing concerns and ideas.
Setting Healthy Boundaries: Work-life balance looks different for everyone. Therefore, leaders should encourage individualized approaches. Small changes like structured breaks, walking meetings, and mental health check-ins improve balance. Leaders should be aware that if they work excessively, staff will feel pressured to do the same.
Diversity & Inclusion in Healthcare Teams: The global healthcare workforce is increasingly diverse and leaders must foster this. Understanding cultural differences in communication and workplace expectations is crucial. Casual gatherings, cultural events, and active listening create stronger team connections.
Mentorship & Reverse Mentoring: Traditional mentorship helps healthcare professionals navigate their careers and avoid burnout. Reverse mentoring allows senior leaders to learn from younger professionals, fostering innovation. This is important because curiosity and adaptability are key to longevity in the workplace.
