SCAI WIN: Interventional Cardiology + Family + Life: Can These Coexist in Harmony?-SCAI WIN - Interventional Cardiology + Family + Life: Can These Coexist in Harmony?

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar titled "Interventional Cardiology Plus Family Plus Life: Can These Coexist in Harmony?" featured a panel of interventional cardiologists discussing the challenging balance of pursuing a career in such a demanding field while also having a family. Dr. Nadia Sutton from Vanderbilt University hosted this insightful session, joined by speakers Dr. Jennifer Reimer from Duke and Dr. Marcella Calfin-Press from UCLA. Dr. Reimer discussed occupational hazards, particularly radiation exposure during pregnancy, emphasizing the importance of radiation safety measures and institutional policies to support pregnant cardiologists. She highlighted the necessity of balancing safety with maintaining career progression. Meanwhile, Dr. Marcella Calfin-Press shared her personal journey of family planning amidst the rigors of medical training, emphasizing the importance of adequate support systems, both personally and professionally.<br /><br />Participants discussed the deterrents women face in choosing interventional cardiology, such as radiation concerns and potential interruptions to career due to family planning. Solutions offered included selecting supportive work environments, leveraging institutional policies for maternity leave, and surrounding oneself with understanding colleagues. The panelists, including Drs. Holly Bowser-Heaton and Molly Zerla, advised on aligning career choices with personal values and goals, addressing fears of professional stagnation, and suggested that women pursue family planning without deferring their aspirations.<br /><br />Overall, the webinar provided a platform to share experiences and strategies, aiming to encourage more women to enter and thrive in interventional cardiology while managing familial responsibilities. It highlighted the necessity of evolving organizational cultures in academia and practice to better accommodate female cardiologists' unique circumstances.

Keywords

Interventional Cardiology

Family Planning

Radiation Safety

Career Balance

Women in Medicine

Occupational Hazards

Maternity Leave

Support Systems

Professional Growth

Organizational Culture