Dr. Inga Lennes: Putting Patients First in Healthcare
Our patients need to be at the center of the things that we design.
Imagine being a medical student with dreams of truly listening to patients and making their voices heard. That was Dr. Inga Lennes' aspiration, and today, as a thoracic medical oncologist at Mass General, she's doing just that. Dr. Lennes has become a key figure in managing lung and esophageal cancer, focusing on enhancing quality and safety measures to improve patient experiences.
In this episode of 'Charged', she opens up about her approach to patient care, emphasizing the importance of designing healthcare around the patient’s needs. Dr. Lennes doesn’t just talk the talk; she walks the walk. She was instrumental in founding the lung nodule and lung screening clinic at Mass General, providing patients with comprehensive, multidisciplinary care. Her passion for medicine shines through as she discusses how better communication among healthcare team members can lead to superior patient outcomes.
But it’s not all about clinical practice. Dr. Lennes also delves into her administrative role, sharing her dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. She believes in supporting employees to overcome inhibitions and create an environment where everyone can thrive. Her insights into adapting to the challenges posed by COVID-19 are particularly timely, offering a glimpse into how small efforts and delayed gratification can lead to long-term success.
If you're curious about what it takes to put patients at the heart of healthcare and how one woman is leading by example, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Lennes' story is a testament to the power of dedication, communication, and empathy in transforming patient care.