Physician Leadership Journal
Surgical Competence and the Aging Surgeon Program
This episode discusses the importance of self-regulation and proactive measures within the medical community to ensure that aging surgeons maintain the necessary physical and cognitive abilities to practice safely. It underscores the commitment to patient safety and the need for comprehensive assessments to address the challenges posed by aging practitioners in a field where precision and competence are critical.
July/August 2025 Vol. 12, No. 4 pp. 35–38 DOI: 10.55834/plj.7582860114
Abstract
In this episode of SoundPractice, host Mike Sacopulos sits down with Mark Katlic, MD, MMM, FACS, the chair emeritus of surgery at LifeBridge Health System in Baltimore, Maryland, and the innovator behind the Aging Surgeon Program. The discussion delves into the critical issue of aging surgeons, exploring the physical and cognitive challenges they face and the potential risks to patient safety. Katlic elaborates on the Aging Surgeon Program, a comprehensive two-day evaluation designed to assess the capabilities of older surgeons and ensure they can continue to practice safely. He addresses the cost, confidentiality, and potential outcomes of the program, emphasizing the importance of self-regulation within the surgical community. The episode offers valuable insights for healthcare professionals and institutions grappling with the complexities of aging practitioners in a field where precision and competence are paramount.
