A Conversation with Dr. Christine Soong – Vice-Chair of Quality & Innovation

This past March, the Department of Medicine welcomed Dr. Christine Soong as the new Vice-Chair of Quality & Innovation (Q&I). We spoke with Dr. Soong about what her priorities and goals are for the Q&I portfolio:

Q: Why were you interested in becoming the Vice-Chair of Quality & Innovation? How have you been previously involved with the portfolio?

As one of the first faculty members to move into the Clinician in Quality & Innovation (CQI) job description, I have been engaged from the start in the portfolio and feel a sense of belonging within the community. The CQI job description has transformed my academic career and provided legitimacy and credibility to the work that I and so many others do, so naturally, I was drawn to the position. Now that there is a growing group of faculty in the job description, I am interested in working with the department on the next phase of this portfolio. I’ve been involved with the Q&I portfolio from the start as a Q&I committee member. I’ve co-chaired and participated in annual retreats, as well as presented at rounds.

Q: What are your key priorities as you step into this role?

The first phase of the portfolio focused on a number of areas including creating the job description, criteria for appointment and promotion, metrics for success and mentorship. I am hoping to spend the next phase building on the successes of the portfolio and expanding on areas including mentorship, particularly for those who may need support demonstrating impact to achieve full professor status, cross-site and cross-department collaborations, supporting innovative work outside of “traditional QI”, developing partnerships, and engaging with philanthropy and advancement to attract resources to support the work conducted by our faculty.

Q: How do you think our department can contribute to the maintenance and possible growth of our Clinicians in Quality & Innovation pipeline?

I may be biased but I believe that those engaged in Q&I work are our future leaders, and I see this group rapidly growing in number and accomplishments. Many CQIs already hold important leadership roles within hospitals, the university and in healthcare. The department will continue to support these physicians by providing the pathway towards a successful career as a CQI, a space for collaboration and recognition.

Q: What are you most excited about in this role?

I’m most excited to get to know everyone in the portfolio and to support the important work they do. I see great potential in working with like-minded folks to break down silos and enhance collaboration to accelerate the changes that need to happen to improve our healthcare system, which is under increasing pressures.

Q: Do you foresee any challenges for the field of Q&I?

As with any area that is rapidly expanding, there are concerns with sustainability and changes that come with rapid growth. One of my goals is to ensure that the growing number of faculty, who are mostly early in their career, are supported and mentored. Another is to enable collaboration and working together on common issues.