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Dr. Gilbert Upchurch, Professor and Chair of the Department of Surgery at the University of Florida College of Medicine, reflects on his remarkable career journey, mentorship, and the complexities of surgical leadership. He underscores the pivotal role that mentors and role models have played in shaping his career and guiding his development. As a leader, Dr. Upchurch emphasizes the value of education and mentorship, both of which are integral to his mission. Despite the demanding nature of running an entire department, Dr. Upchurch has managed to balance his responsibilities, not only excelling in the operating room but also producing landmark papers, authoring surgical textbooks, and mentoring dozens of trainees. He shares insights on how he has juggled these commitments, strategically setting priorities to maintain a thriving career while managing the pressures of a constantly evolving healthcare landscape. Finally, he speaks candidly about the challenges of surgical leadership, including adapting to external forces and navigating the changing financial realities of healthcare, all while keeping family a top priority.

Takeaways

• Choose a career path based on role models and mentors who inspire and guide you.
• Education and mentoring are essential in surgical leadership, and it is important to find joy in what you do.
• Managing a busy schedule requires setting priorities and finding a balance between work and family.
• Being a surgical leader involves responding to external forces and navigating the changing financial landscape of healthcare.