2023 Congress Reception Highlights

Since its inception 38 years ago, the American Society for Preventive Cardiology (ASPC) has maintained a robust history of commitment. Established in 1985, the ASPC has consistently prioritized the development of programs aimed at improving both basic and clinical education. Additionally, it has actively spearheaded the introduction or expansion of interdisciplinary clinical services and research initiatives within the realm of preventive cardiology. In recent years, the ASPC has transitioned from being solely an insular organization of academic experts to one with a clear emphasis on the interdisciplinary contributions it can offer to the wider healthcare and scientific community.

Towards this goal, several working groups have been established to support the mission and objectives of the ASPC and the interests of its members. The Women in Preventive Cardiology (WIPC) working group was created to provide support and mentorship to women in preventive cardiology. Additionally, the group advocates for women’s cardiovascular health by promoting optimal treatment and translational research aimed at improving cardiovascular outcomes in women. The WIPC is committed to inclusivity in achieving its mission and welcomes participation from all ASPC members.

On July 22nd, 2023, the WIPC proudly hosted its 3rd reception. The primary focus of this event was to share advice and strategies to achieve wellness while balancing a busy professional life with personal/family responsibilities.  

The panelists included four distinguished female preventive cardiologists including: Dr. Martha Gulati, director of Preventive Cardiology at Cedars Sinai and president of ASPC; Dr. Eugenia Gianos,  director of Women’s Heart Health at Lenox Hill Hospital; Dr. Pamela Taub, founding director of the Step Family Foundation Cardiac Rehabilitation and Wellness Center at UC San Diego; and Dr. Karol Watson, director of the UCLA Women’s Cardiovascular Health Center. Below is a summary of key highlights from the WIPC Working Group reception held during the 2023 American Society for Preventive Cardiology Congress on CVD Prevention.

1. Know your value. Our panelists emphasized the importance of recognizing and appreciating one's skillset and expertise in the field of preventive cardiology. Understanding the value you bring to the table is essential for personal and career advancement.
2. Find your niche. What will distinguish you from others in the field? Attendees were encouraged to identify their unique strengths and areas of expertise within preventive cardiology. By carving out a distinct niche, clinicians may be more easily sought after for their clinical and academic expertise. Being recognized for your niche in preventive cardiology allows one to distinguish themselves and make significant contributions to the field.
3. Find your balance. Make time for what is important to you (friendships, family, pets, hobbies). Achieving a balance between professional goals and personal well-being is crucial for long-term success. Our panelists discussed the significance of carving out time for meaningful relationships, hobbies, and self-care activities. Remember that your occupation is only a part of your overall identity. It is important to appreciate the non-clinical aspects of your life including hobbies, travel, relationships, as these contribute to you being a well-rounded individual and clinician. 
4. Strengthen your business skills. While business acumen is not a focus of our medical training, it is an important skill to develop for a successful career as a clinician. Understand the financial status of your practice and how your work contributes to the overall success and growth of the practice. Learn how to manage your resources efficiently and advocate to key stakeholders for clinical services that will help grow the practice, increase revenue and attract patients.
5. Nominate yourself. Seek out opportunities for growth. Don’t hesitate to share with others your professional achievements, interests and goals. This allows others to better know you and identify opportunities for collaboration or sponsorship. Whether it's applying for leadership roles, speaking engagements, research grants, or participation in professional societies, nominate yourself and seize the chance to contribute and make a difference. By taking initiative, you assert your capabilities and distinguish yourself as a proactive leader in preventive cardiology.  
6. Discuss your contract, learn from others’ experience. Negotiations can be difficult for even the most experienced clinician. Consider seeking guidance when negotiating at work or reviewing contracts. It's essential you thoroughly understand the terms and conditions of your contract to ensure the terms are fair and align with your personal and professional goals. Learning from the experiences of others' can shed light on potential pitfalls to avoid and strategies to optimize your contract terms. While you may not get secure all the terms you want, you can still arrive at mutually agreeable terms with your employer. A trusted colleague and an attorney can each provide key advise to ensure you are comfortable with the terms or your contract. Know your best alternative to a negotiated agreement (BATNA) in case the terms offered are not acceptable for you or your career goals.
7. Support other women.  You are not on this journey alone. In a male-dominated field like cardiology, receiving support from other women is vital for fostering inclusivity, solidarity, and collective advancement. Offer mentorship, encouragement, and advocacy to fellow female colleagues. Create the environment and support network that you wish you had. Success is achieved by not just reaching your personal goals, but by helping others achieve theirs as well. By building a supportive network and uplifting each other, women in preventive cardiology can collectively overcome obstacles and thrive in their careers.
8. It is normal to be scared.  It's natural to experience fear or apprehension when stepping out of your comfort zone or facing new challenges. Acknowledge these feelings, known that they are normal, but don't let them prevent you from progressing. Reframe fear as an opportunity to be inquisitive and to grow. Remember that strength develops by continually increasing resistance.
9. Believe in yourself. Confidence in your abilities is key to success. Trust in your clinical training, expertise, and unique experiences as a woman in the medical field. Cultivate a positive mindset, celebrate your achievements, and persevere through setbacks with resilience and self-assurance. Believing in yourself not only fuels your personal and professional growth but also inspires confidence in others and earns respect from peers and patients alike. Finally, remember that you may be just one step or opportunity away from achieving your goal.
10. Have a supportive network. Cultivate meaningful relationships with a diverse network of colleagues, mentors, friends, and family who support and empower you. This support system can offer guidance, encouragement, and invaluable relationships to help you navigate challenges and explore new opportunities. We each have a limit to our own strength. When you reach a wall or feel you’ve stalled that is when your network of supporters picks up the baton and helps you through the challenge. Having a supportive network can make all the difference in your success and overall wellness.

These are highlights of the enlightening discussions that took place at the 2023 WIPC Working Group Meeting Congress Reception. We look forward to future collaborative and networking activities with the WIPC working group and appreciate the support of the ASPC leadership.