The role of a hospitalist physician has been evolving and expanding beyond the bedside. Some leverage their clinical expertise to ascend into leadership roles for a broader impact on shaping policy, clinical quality and being the voice of physicians at the highest levels of their institution. In this interview, Dr. Jeremy Cauwels ( who I had the privilege to train under as a medical resident) gives us his insights on his journey from bedside medicine to the boardroom at Sanford Medical Center, where he now influences strategic decisions as Chief Medical Officer (CMO). He was recently featured on the 2025 edition of “Chief Medical Officers to know” on Beckers Hospital review publication.
Q. So Tell us about your journey from Hospitalist to Chief Medical Officer !
A. The most important habit that helped me was ‘showing up’. Many people talk about involvement, but I think it is true – while working as a hospitalist, I sought to get on various committees and attended those regularly. I tried earnestly to understand the different voices at the table. Waiting to hear the other good ideas in the room is always helpful.
Q. What made you first think of moving out of the traditional Hospitalist career?
A. Never really thought about moving out of it – I still love the small amount of clinical time that I have. The goal was really to understand a broader view. As I understood each view, I found a new fascination with the next step. While I also learned and saw some things that didn’t fascinate me, I was able to define a leadership journey in a way that made sense for my interests and passions.
Q. What emotions did you experience on Day One as CMO ?
A. Fear ! Mostly of my own incompetence – the imposter syndrome is a real thing ! While it’s natural to feel that you have a lot to learn, don’t let that fool you into thinking that you aren’t the right person for the job.
Q. What was the most challenging part of career switch ? And the most rewarding ?
A. COVID-19 was a challenging time – to have a relatively new role and be thrust into the largest infectious disease outbreak since the Spanish influenza was like receving a gift – a terrible gift. The ability and encouragement to give advice and make decisions based on limited knowledge was both terrifying and rewarding. Healthcare became about working together, solving common problems and keeping an open mind. Now that we are past the pandemic, I strive to make the everyday work culture more like that.
Q. What unconventional piece of advice would you give physicians aspiring for leadership roles ?
A. I’m pretty sure this is a Hallmark card…”Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care.” The closer you get to being in charge, work harder on being the last to speak – become the chair if it becomes as option on committes you volunteer to serve on.
Q. Looking back, has it all been worth it ?
A. The ability to have an impact on millions of lives every year ? Yes its totally worth it. I want to add that it is important to look back to take stock of the good you are doing – If you don’t, it can be harder than you might think to remember the difference you make.
Q. If not healthcare, what profession would you be in?
A. My handwriting is too bad to do anything other than healthcare – if not healthcare, I would likely be unemployed 😁
Q. Any fun hobbies & side-gigs ?
A. I enjoy everything outside. From Hunting and Fishing to Golf ⛳ and walks with my wife !
Q. Anything that you claim bragging-rights on?
A. I once beat Bo Jackson ! (in a game of pool) 🎱
Q. Wow ! R u Coffee person or a Tea person ?
A. Neither ! Skim Milk 🥛- still at least 4-6 cups per day !
Thank you for your time – those were valuable pearls of wisdom and a fun read. We wish you continued success on your career and future goals!
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