How can addressing a small group of clinicians’ behaviors transform healthcare safety and culture?

In this episode of Scalpel and Sword, Dr. Lee Sharma sits down with Dr. William Cooper, to unpack 25-30 years of groundbreaking research on incivility in medicine. They explore how just 2-5% of physicians account for 50% of malpractice claims and unsolicited patient complaints, often linked to unprofessional conduct toward colleagues. Dr. Cooper shares how Vanderbilt’s peer-intervention model—using data-driven, non-punitive feedback—reduces complaints by up to 50%, improves patient outcomes, and mitigates risks like surgical complications and burnout. Dr. Sharma reflects on her own experience as a peer messenger in 2001, witnessing transformative change in a colleague’s demeanor.

The conversation dives into applying these strategies to safety protocols, like surgical bundles, to enhance adherence and reduce infections, emphasizing a culture of empathy and accountability to make medicine kinder and more reliable. Tune in for actionable insights on managing conflict, fostering professionalism, and preventing workplace tensions in high-stakes healthcare environments.

Three Actionable Takeaway:

1. Identify High-Risk Patterns Early – Use data on unsolicited complaints and behaviors to spot the 2-5% of clinicians linked to 50% of malpractice and incivility; Dr. Cooper's model employs peer messengers for non-punitive awareness, reducing risks like surgical complications and burnout.
2. Implement Tiered Interventions – Start with gentle, data-driven feedback (e.g., "Your peers follow protocols 98%—yours is 60%") and escalate only if needed; Dr. Cooper notes this promotes self-reflection, improving adherence to bundles and dropping infection rates precipitously.
3. Foster a Culture of Professionalism – Promote "love always wins" empathy and standardize processes to prevent conflict; Dr. Cooper's work shows raising awareness cuts complaints by 50%, enhancing patient safety, economic efficiency, and team well-being through peer support and leadership.

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. William Cooper, MD, MPH, is a pediatrician, Cornelius Vanderbilt Professor, and Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. As President of the Vanderbilt Center for Patient and Professional Advocacy, he has led 25+ years of research linking 2-5% of physicians to 50% of malpractice claims and incivility, impacting patient safety and burnout. His peer-intervention model uses non-punitive feedback to reduce complaints by 50% and improve outcomes like surgical infections. A prolific researcher with publications in JAMA and Pediatrics, he advises national bodies like the Joint Commission. Cooper promotes empathy and accountability, enhancing healthcare professionalism.

Connect via Vanderbilt’s CPPA website or

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/william-cooper-010061a9

Website: https://www.vumc.org/patient-professional-advocacy/vumc-cppa

About the Host:
Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.

• Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:
  📧 Email: [email protected]
  🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma

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.

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