Understanding the Question

When interviewers ask, "Discuss a time you disagreed with a colleague on a patient's treatment plan. How was the situation resolved?" they're probing into several key areas of your professional character, especially relevant in the field of orthopedic surgery. This question tests your ability to handle conflict, collaborate with others, and prioritize patient care while navigating the complexities of medical decision-making.

Orthopedic surgery involves making critical decisions that can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. Disagreements among healthcare professionals are not uncommon due to the variety of treatment options and the complexity of cases. The question aims to uncover how you deal with differing professional opinions, negotiate solutions, and maintain a collaborative and respectful work environment.

Interviewer's Goals

The interviewer is looking to assess:

1. Collaboration Skills: Your ability to work effectively within a team, respecting other professionals' opinions while contributing your expertise.
2. Conflict Resolution: How you approach and resolve disagreements in a professional setting, ensuring that patient care remains the top priority.
3. Communication Skills: Your ability to articulate your viewpoint clearly and listen to others' perspectives.
4. Patient-Centric Approach: Ensuring that the resolution of the disagreement reflects the best interest of the patient.
5. Professionalism and Integrity: Your capacity to navigate challenging situations with maturity, respect, and adherence to ethical standards.

How to Approach Your Answer

To craft a compelling response, structure your answer using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), focusing on a real-life example from your experience.

• Situation: Briefly describe the context of the disagreement, including the patient's condition and the differing opinions on the treatment plan.
• Task: Explain your role in the situation and what was at stake for the patient.
• Action: Detail the steps you took to address the disagreement, including how you communicated with your colleague(s), sought additional information or opinions if necessary, and worked towards a consensus.
• Result: Conclude with the outcome of the situation. Highlight how the resolution benefited the patient and what you learned from the experience.

Example Responses Relevant to Orthopedic Surgeon

Example 1:

"In my previous role, I was part of a team treating a patient with a complex femoral fracture. My colleague recommended immediate surgery, while I believed a conservative treatment approach with potential surgery down the line would be best for the patient's long-term mobility. Recognizing our differing opinions, I initiated a meeting with the team to discuss the case in-depth. We reviewed the latest literature, consulted with a senior surgeon, and considered the patient's health status and preferences. Through this collaborative dialogue, we agreed to start with a conservative treatment and closely monitor the patient's progress. The patient eventually recovered well without needing surgery. This experience reinforced the value of collective decision-making and respecting diverse professional opinions for optimal patient care."

Example 2:

"During a case involving a pediatric patient with scoliosis, I disagreed with the proposed aggressive surgical intervention plan. Believing in a more conservative approach due to the patient's age and progression rate, I discussed my concerns with the colleague in charge. We agreed to present our views in a multidisciplinary team meeting, including pediatric orthopedic specialists and the patient's parents, to discuss the risks and benefits of all options. The meeting facilitated an open exchange of information, leading to a consensus to adopt a watchful waiting approach with regular monitoring. The situation taught me the importance of inclusive decision-making and reaffirmed my commitment to patient-centered care."

Tips for Success

• Be Specific: Choose a relevant and specific example that clearly demonstrates your skills and the positive outcome of the situation.
• Focus on Collaboration: Emphasize your willingness to collaborate and find the best solution collectively.
• Highlight Learning: Mention any lessons learned or how the experience has informed your approach to similar situations in the future.
• Remain Professional: Ensure your response maintains respect for all colleagues involved and focuses on the positive resolution and patient care aspects.
• Practice Your Response: Before the interview, practice articulating your answer to ensure clarity, conciseness, and effectiveness in delivering your message.