How to Answer: Have you ever had a disagreement with a physician? If so, how did you handle it?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Physician Assistant job interview.
10. Have you ever had a disagreement with a physician? If so, how did you handle it?
How to Answer
It is not uncommon for physician assistants to disagree with a physician. The interviewer knows this and would like to see how you have handled disputes in the past. How you respond gives the interviewer insight into your problem-solving, communication, and conflict-resolution skills, which are essential skills to possess in any profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on January 31st, 2023
Entry Level Example
"Luckily, I have had good coworkers and supervisors in the past with minimal conflict. If there is an issue with a physician, I like to nip it in the bud. I ask them to speak in private, address the issue, and come up with a resolution that makes us both happy."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 31st, 2023
Answer Example
"Fortunately, I have only had one disagreement in my career with a physician. I had an issue with how he spoke to a patient and asked the physician to speak privately. I calmly told the physician I did not agree with how he spoke with one of our patients. He asked me to elaborate, and I explained how he dismissed the patient when they asked for a refill on their pain medication. Once he explained that the patient had a history of abusing prescription medications, I better understood where he was coming from."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 31st, 2023
Experienced Example
"Over the years, I have found the involved parties can fix all conflicts with honest, open communication. When both parties can explain why they are bothered by something and decide how to handle the situation maturely, it seems less conflict will happen in the future. Most conflicts are simply a misunderstanding or lack of communication. By starting our professional relationship with open, honest communication, I have found that I understand the physician's thinking, and there are generally no reasons to disagree."
Written by Krista Wenz on January 31st, 2023