Navigating the leadership tightrope: a case study in the art of following and supporting/

PFLIPSEN Matthew C.

Navigating the leadership tightrope: a case study in the art of following and supporting/ Matthew C. Pflipsen - 2025

Military physicians serve as staff officers where both leading and following are important competencies. Navigating between the two roles is a necessary skill to avoid undermining one's boss and to support the mission. This case describes a deployed junior officer reconciling his role as the lead medical expert while supporting a Commander's decision, highlighting the challenges of followership in situations of disagreement.


PHYSICIANS
LEADERSHIP