Frequently Asked Questions
For whom is this coaching designed?
The Chief Medical Outlook (CMO) Group coaching program is specifically designed for early career Chief Medical Officers and those aspiring to become Chief Medical Officers (or other physician executives in healthcare). We offer a one-of-a- kind outlook on the role of physician leadership unlike other coaching and development programs. Our program is led by a former Chief Medical Officer who has developed a unique program for the physician health system leaders who are navigating complex organizational environments, whether in-patient or out-patient.
Why do I need a coach?
How do you think you became a competent physician? At first, you were a student-learner with teachers providing content, context, feedback, testing, etc. Next you entered a long apprenticeship where you honed your critical thinking skills, your technical proficiencies, your fluency, and your style. Sure, you studied and took the Boards, too, but during your residency you were literally being trained day in and day out. Less of a student and more of a trainee.
How do top athletes train to become world class level? Become champions in their sport? At first it is an ongoing relentless development of their muscle memory, along with ongoing efforts at stamina and endurance. And they use a variety of trainers for these talents. But at some point they rely on a coach, or several coaches. Why?
To develop the skills that differentiate them to the next level. In fact, many of today’s top athletes have had personal and private coaches since they were teenagers. To help them think, how to show up, how to compose themselves, how to let go, how to engage, effortlessly and with a clear goal of winning. If you have a clear goal of leading as a physician executive, you need a coach
Why do I need to learn new skills at this point in my career?
Transitioning to formal leadership roles in healthcare and medicine requires new skills in addition to the coaching. After training to become a top-notch physician, there is no formal method inside traditional healthcare to “train” to become an executive leader. Sure, you can obtain advanced certifications, additional degrees, and participate in new experiences in preparation. And your organization may have development programs available to you as well. But, the requirements of leadership require a new way of organizing the skills needed to succeed. And those skills require coaching.
Most physicians NEVER experience this transition in their early education or training and have zero context for “next level” skill development to become a leader. And, after all of the classes, books, webinars and so on, you still need a field coach to work with you on your skills.
How do you show up? What is on your mind? What should be on your mind? What do you bring to the team? What do you bring to the organization? How will your organization benefit in achieving its goals with your talent? How do you elevate your talent? These are just a few of the key questions asked of the executive leader. If you lack solid answers to these questions then you are unprepared and this is where coaching will advance your readiness.
Why do I need a physician coach, as opposed to a “regular” coach?
“Doctor-led coaching offers an unparalleled depth of understanding. Physicians who have “walked the corridors” and “worn the scrubs” bring unique insights and empathy to their coaching relationships.” This is from a compelling article by Arthur Lazarus, MD, MBA, CPE, DFAAPL, Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. relationships. The article shares several other insights such as
“Coaching provides a safe, doctor-only space, free from the oversight of employers or training institutions, to tackle these challenges head-on. These confidential environments allow physicians to speak openly about their struggles without fear of judgment or professional repercussions.”
“Physician coaching focuses on areas often neglected in traditional medical education and training. [Coaching] programs may include cognitive and positive psychology techniques to reframe challenges, strategies for managing [the work]…and tools to promote mental health awareness…Coaching also addresses practices for maintaining work-life balance and developing healthy relationships. These interventions not only address immediate concerns but also cultivate long-term resilience and career satisfaction [in an executive/administrative role or a clinical leadership role, or both.]
Is the physician coach providing medical advice?
Physicians who receive coaching are considered clients, not patients, and there is no formation of a doctor-patient relationship.
Is the engagement with the coach kept confidential?
Clients sign an agreement, consistent with best practices in the coaching industry and holding to the highest standards of professionalism. There are instances, however, in which legal circumstances may occur by which information may be requested regarding the client. Here is an excerpt from the agreement, “Both parties agree to protect confidential, proprietary, or sensitive information shared during the engagement. Consultant will not disclose private organizational information; …Consultant will not disclose information relating to Client’s assessments, development, or summaries to any third party without written instructions and consent by Client. Exceptions include compliance with any court order (e.g., subpoena) or as otherwise required by law (sec. 9A)”
What does The CMO Group Coaching Look like?
Executive coaching for physician leaders is most effective when it is structured, thoughtful, and personalized. At CMO Group, we combine proven coaching practices with modern tools to ensure each engagement is focused, efficient, and tailored to your leadership context. This structured approach allows us to spend less time gathering background and more time working on the leadership challenges that matter most to you.
Step‑by‑Step: What to Expect
1. Schedule Your Session
You book your coaching or advisory session using our online scheduling system. Sessions are conducted virtually, allowing flexibility while maintaining a high‑touch experience.
2. Pre‑Needs Assessment
Before your first session, you complete a brief pre‑needs assessment. This helps us understand: Your current role and career stage, your organizational context and constraints, the leadership challenges you’re facing, and your personal (and ultimately our mutual) goals for coaching or advising. This ensures your time is used effectively from the very first conversation.
3. Context Review & Preparation
Your assessment is reviewed in advance to identify themes, priorities, and potential pressure points. This preparation allows your coach to enter each session informed and focused, rather than starting from scratch.
4. Coaching / Advisory Session
Sessions are conducted via secure video meeting. Conversations may include: Leadership decision‑making, strategic and organizational challenges, role transitions and executive presence, navigating complex stakeholder dynamics. The sessions are guided by your goals and real‑world challenges, not a generic coaching script.
5. Post‑Session Summary & Action Plan
After each session, you receive a concise follow‑up that may include: A clear summary of key discussion points, agreed‑upon action items, reflection prompts to guide your thinking, and suggested focus areas for the next session. This helps translate insight into action between meetings.
6. Ongoing Progress & Longitudinal Insight
Over time, themes, patterns, and progress are reviewed to ensure coaching remains aligned with your evolving goals. This longitudinal perspective supports: Measurable leadership growth, accountability and momentum and more effective use of future sessions.