Tell me about a time when you had to address a conflict within a multidisciplinary team and how you resolved it.

JUNIOR LEVEL
Tell me about a time when you had to address a conflict within a multidisciplinary team and how you resolved it.
Sample answer to the question:
In my previous role as a surgical oncologist, I encountered a conflict within our multidisciplinary team when deciding on the best treatment plan for a patient with complex general oncologic conditions. The disagreement stemmed from differing opinions on the optimal surgical approach. To address the conflict, I took the initiative to organize a team meeting to discuss each team member's perspective and concerns. I created an open and inclusive environment where everyone could voice their opinions and actively listened to each team member's viewpoint. Through respectful and collaborative discussions, we were able to identify common ground and reach a consensus on the best treatment plan. To ensure ongoing collaboration and prevent future conflicts, I proposed implementing regular team meetings to foster open communication and shared decision-making.
Here is a more solid answer:
During my time as a surgical oncologist, I encountered a conflict within our multidisciplinary team while treating a patient with complex general oncologic conditions. The conflict arose when deciding on the surgical approach for the patient. To address and resolve the conflict, I took the following steps. First, I recognized the importance of open communication and actively listened to each team member's perspective and concerns. I ensured that everyone had an opportunity to express their opinions and supported a respectful and inclusive environment. Through these discussions, we identified the underlying factors contributing to the conflict, including concerns about patient safety and long-term outcomes. We analyzed the available data, research literature, and consulted with other experts in the field. With a shared commitment to providing the best care for the patient, we reached a consensus on the optimal surgical approach. To prevent similar conflicts in the future, I suggested implementing regular team meetings to foster ongoing collaboration and shared decision-making. This experience taught me the value of effective communication, active listening, and the importance of multidisciplinary teamwork in providing excellent patient care.
Why is this a more solid answer?
This answer provides a more detailed account of a conflict within a multidisciplinary team and how it was resolved. The candidate demonstrates their abilities in collaborative teamwork and communication skills by actively listening to team members, creating a respectful and inclusive environment, analyzing available data, and proposing a solution to prevent future conflicts. However, the answer could benefit from including specific examples or outcomes of the conflict resolution.
An example of a exceptional answer:
As a surgical oncologist, I encountered a conflict within our multidisciplinary team while treating a patient with complex general oncologic conditions. The conflict arose when deciding on the surgical approach, with some team members advocating for a more aggressive procedure while others favored a less invasive approach. To address the conflict, I realized the importance of open dialogue and collaboration. I scheduled a team meeting, ensuring that all relevant team members were present, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pathologists. During the meeting, I facilitated a structured discussion, allowing each team member to share their perspective and concerns. I actively listened to each viewpoint, encouraging respectful and constructive conversations. To help facilitate the decision-making process, I compiled and presented evidence-based research on surgical outcomes and long-term patient prognosis. This information helped inform our discussions and allowed us to make an informed collective decision. Ultimately, we agreed on a hybrid surgical approach that took into account the patient's specific needs and minimized potential risks. To prevent future conflicts, I proposed implementing monthly multidisciplinary team meetings to foster ongoing collaboration, communication, and knowledge sharing. This experience highlighted the importance of effective teamwork, active listening, and evidence-based decision-making in providing optimal patient care.
Why is this an exceptional answer?
This answer provides a comprehensive and detailed account of a conflict within a multidisciplinary team and how it was resolved. The candidate demonstrates exceptional abilities in collaborative teamwork and communication skills by organizing a team meeting with all relevant team members, actively listening to each viewpoint, presenting evidence-based research, and proposing a solution to prevent future conflicts. The answer also showcases the candidate's ability to make informed collective decisions and prioritize patient needs.
How to prepare for this question:
  • Prepare specific examples of conflicts you have encountered within multidisciplinary teams and how you resolved them.
  • Highlight your communication and interpersonal skills, emphasizing your ability to actively listen, encourage respectful discussions, and facilitate collaborative decision-making.
  • Demonstrate your commitment to ongoing medical education by staying informed about the latest advancements in your field, including surgical oncology.
  • Practice presenting evidence-based research or data to support your decision-making process.
What are interviewers evaluating with this question?
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

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