Inside physician engagement: Giving physicians a real voice

Bill Heller, chief operating officer at CHG Healthcare, unpacks one of the starkest gaps in the company’s 2025 Physician Sentiment Survey: demand for physician input far outpaces how often leaders actually ask for it — or use it.

Nearly three-quarters of physicians surveyed said they want a voice in decisions that affect their work. Yet only 40% feel their input is even solicited, and fewer than half of those believe their feedback meaningfully shapes outcomes.

Heller argues that fixing this doesn’t require sweeping reforms or expensive programs. Some of the most effective changes are simple: visible leadership, informal check-ins and leaders asking better questions — not just “How are you?” but “What’s your biggest challenge this week?”

More structured approaches matter too. Interdisciplinary forums that include physicians in conversations about workflows, protocols, administrative burden and even artificial intelligence (AI) can surface practical, actionable ideas leaders might otherwise miss.

Not every suggestion can be implemented. But Heller stresses that physicians notice when leaders listen with intent, close the feedback loop and explain decisions transparently. That effort alone can rebuild trust and engagement.

The message for leaders is direct: engagement starts with time, curiosity and a willingness to listen to the people who keep the organization running.