SMA Digest (Winter 2015) v.55, i.1 | Page 10

NEW CEO Bonnie Brossart poised to take SMA to NEW HEIGHTS By Dallas Carpenter Bonnie Brossart started her new position at the SMA on January 5, 2015. She spoke with SMA Communications Manager Dallas Carpenter to discuss what brought her to the SMA and what her priorities will be in her first few weeks with the organization. Carpenter: What attracted you to this position? Brossart: I was attracted to this position because I have had the wonderful experience of getting to know, learn from and be inspired by a number of physicians here in Saskatchewan who want to make care better and safer for Saskatchewan citizens. One of my most enjoyable work experiences prior to becoming CEO of the Health Quality Council (HQC) was leading the Chronic Disease Management Collaborative and working with close to 30 per cent of Saskatchewan’s family physicians. I am hopeful that with my experience and breadth of relationships throughout the health system that I can - with the help of the staff, Executive, Board and members of the SMA - create a future where physicians across the province are meaningfully involved, integrally designing and leading health system strategy and improvements. In my previous role at the HQC, I had the privilege of studying and learning from several high performing health sys- 8 SMA DIGEST | WINTER 2015 tems across the globe. In each of these systems it is clearly evident that physician leadership is a fundamental characteristic. We are doing great things in this province. Our colleagues across the country and internationally are taking notice when it comes to the improvements we are making. I earnestly believe that if we don’t become more intentional with involving and enabling physicians to embrace leadership opportunities we will be limited in what we can accomplish. Carpenter: What do you anticipate will be your priorities in the first few weeks and months on the job? ‘‘ Brossart: “Look. Listen. Learn.” is my mantra for the first few months. I have much to learn when it comes to the governance, strategy and operations of the SMA. I want to be sure I am hopeful that with my system that I can - with the a future where physicians and leading health system