15 Quotes by David Shulkin

What we know about American medicine is that our supply of health-care professionals is not equally distributed. In rural areas, we have severe shortages.

I do think that VA, as the largest employer of nurses and the largest health system in the country, often does become a place where we can demonstrate advances in medical practice.

Part of what any good health-care professional does, including an advanced-practice nurse, is know when it is time to seek help from more experienced professionals. I'm a primary care doctor. It doesn't mean I know everything. When something is beyond my competency or expertise, I seek consultation from my colleagues.

It was clear that VA was in need of reform, and when the president asked for help, I could not say no. First, I felt I could help, and my private sector experience was relevant. Second, that this was my chance to give back to those that had stepped up to serve our country.

I've always approached my job first as a physician. I'm here to help and take care of patients. I'm an administrator second.

My career goal is to work as a liaison between organized medicine, government, and third-party payers.