I.M. a Health Leader: Baligh R. Yehia, MD, MPP, MSc, FACP

What inspired you to choose internal medicine?

I've always appreciated the opportunity to take care of the whole person and to focus on addressing health inequities.

I am also deeply committed to improving health in our community and addressing health disparities. I strongly believe that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, and I am dedicated to working towards reducing health disparities and improving overall community wellness.

Describe your internal medicine journey and how it has shaped your career.

My early career experiences in internal medicine and infectious disease research, particularly with populations disproportionately impacted by HIV fueled my passion for championing better health outcomes for marginalized communities.

My journey in internal medicine has been defined by a commitment to driving transformative change and achieving exceptional results. My leadership roles at Jefferson Health, Ascension and the VA have provided me with invaluable opportunities to improve community health, drive growth, and innovative initiatives. My track record reflects my ability to drive impactful change and deliver outstanding results. My experiences have afforded me a deep understanding of the art and science of medicine, and how the healthcare landscape is both complex and ever evolving. It’s contributed to my relentless focus on improving quality, safety and the care experience for the patients we’re privileged to serve.

How has internal medicine training given you the skills, insight, and/or experience needed to become a leader?

My internal medicine training provided me with a strong foundation in clinical knowledge, person-centered care, and what it means to treat the whole person. This background has been instrumental in developing my leadership skills, as it taught me the importance of compassion, effective communication, collaboration, and decision-making in complex and high-pressure situations. Additionally, my experience in internal medicine gave me insight into the challenges and opportunities within the healthcare system, particularly around access and helping patients navigate the system when they need secondary and tertiary care. This has enabled me to approach leadership roles with a deep understanding of the clinical and operational aspects of healthcare delivery.

What advice would you share with medical students or trainees that are interested in a leadership role?

If you're a medical student or trainee interested in a leadership role, here's some advice for you:

Be willing to take risks and embrace new projects. Stay open to possibilities, as this mindset can lead to unexpected opportunities. Focus on collaboration and look for ways to support existing leadership. Seeking mentorship and being proactive in your learning can also help you develop the skills needed for effective leadership in the medical field.

What are your interests and hobbies outside of medicine and how do you balance your work and personal life? Anything you have learned along the way to pass on?

I enjoy cooking, spending time with friends, family, my dog Buzz, and listening to music.