The evolution of the VPMA (vice-president, medical affairs)

In the past, the VPMA's role was clearly defined. So were the skills required to do the job. Initially VPMAs served an inside role in an organization as the liaison with the medical staff and the hospital administration. That role has matured and is currently evolving. Ultimately the expansion of the VPMA role will provide alternative career directions for physician executives. The wise physician executive learns from those who have knowledge--or who are in the process of acquiring it. That means keeping an eye on active managed care markets nationwide for trends that may be coming to his or her locale. The physician who does not do this kind of professional introspection and evaluation of the national market may find him- or herself professionally behind the curve.