John Bramhall, MD, PhD

Specialty: Anesthesiology

Years in practice: 30

Works at: University of Washington, Seattle

Society memberships: WSSA, ASA, AMA, Linnaean Society

Why WSMA: The Association has a large membership of clinicians active in all aspects of medical care in Washington State. We are all educated to a very high level and work in complex environments aligned with clinical service, administration or research. Although we understand a common language, and respect common ideals, each of us, singly, has only a partial understanding of the complexities underlying good individual and community health - together, as an Association, we can establish a fuller understanding and draw into focus specific issues that need attention and that will improve the health of our communities. We draw strength from each other and have the opportunity to coalesce around important elements of policy to speak with a unified voice representing physicians serving Washington citizens.

Why serve on WSMA’s Board: The Board is a group of dedicated clinicians, selected for their skills and for their ability to work in the nest interests of the Association. Important issues are discussed, positions are established and policy is refined. Although the House of Delegates is often the ultimate originator and arbiter of Association policy, it is the actions of the Board that have the most immediate effects on implementation of Association policy. The discussions are lively and informed and the group, as a whole, is effective in representing the interests and aspirations of a wide variety of clinical specialties.

Why should physicians lead: Medicine is still, to a large extent, a self-regulated profession. Physicians themselves define the contours of effective and appropriate care. External agencies coordinate and formalize many of these contours (legislation, rule- making, professional discipline) and need to have clear, concise and consistent guidance from the physician communities in order to implement intelligent interpretation of clinical standards of care and behavior. Physicians, themselves, must be willing to provide this guidance in an effective and collaborative manner.

How do you help further WSMA’s vision to make Washington state the best place to practice medicine and receive care: The issues brought before the Board are often complex, nuanced or controversial; each Board Member plays an active role in sorting through these complexities and helping to arrive at a consensus decision that respects the complexities of the discussions. I strive to be educated on the issues, to speak to important elements and to respect the will of the Board.

Fun fact about you: I am full of self-doubt.