Navigating the business side of medicine can be daunting, especially for women physicians who often face unique challenges in negotiation. In this episode, Dr. Lee Sharma sits down with Dr. Mona Bakshi-Kamath, to discuss how she mastered the art of negotiation to secure fair reimbursement and create a patient-centered practice.

Dr. Kamath shares her journey of diving deep into billing and reimbursement, advocating for equitable pay, and restructuring her schedule to prioritize both patient care and personal well-being. From leveraging data to negotiate with hospital administrators to setting boundaries that enhance quality of life, her insights are a roadmap for physicians looking to thrive in today’s healthcare landscape. This episode is a must-listen for medical students, residents, and practicing physicians seeking to advocate for themselves and their patients.
Three Actionable Takeaways:

1. Do Your Homework – Research reimbursement rates and RVU calculations for your state and specialty before negotiating contracts to ensure fair pay. Compare with colleagues in similar roles to strengthen your case.
2. Prioritize Patient Care in Negotiations – Frame your requests around improving patient outcomes, like reducing hospital readmissions, to align with hospital goals and make your case compelling.
3. Set Clear Boundaries – Define your minimum and maximum workload to achieve work-life balance. Visualize your ideal day to ensure contracts support both professional and personal goals.

About the Show:
Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.

About the Guest:

Dr. Mona Kamath is a family medicine physician at East Alabama Medical Center in Valley, Alabama. With a background in Locum Tenens and experience at West Point Military Academy, she brings a wealth of knowledge in primary care and reimbursement strategies. Inspired by her father’s lessons in negotiation, Dr. Kamath is passionate about mentoring women physicians to advocate for fair pay and balanced lives.

Website: https://www.eastalabamahealth.org/provider/mona-bakshi-kamath-m-d-internal-medicine

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma – An obstetrician in Auburn, AL with a Master’s degree in Conflict Resolution, and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1993. A physician passionate about helping colleagues address conflicts and thrive in medicine through practical strategies and open conversations.
Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.eastalabamahealth.org/provider/lee-sharma-md-obstetrics

The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.