EP21 - Mending Medicine: Kimberly Best on Conflict as a Cure

Can conflict be a catalyst for positive change in healthcare?In this episode of Scalpel and Sword, Dr. Lee Sharma sits down with Kimberly Best,  drawing from her extensive experience as a trauma nurse and mediator, Kimberly discusses how conflict, often seen as negative, is a natural part of human systems that can be harnessed for growth. She shares her journey from nursing to mediation, sparked by a painful personal divorce, and explains how transformative mediation can build better healthcare teams. Kimberly highlights the link between unresolved conflict and poor patient outcomes, offering practical strategies for clinicians to embrace conflict, reduce shame, and create collaborative, compassionate workplaces.Top 3 Takeaways:Conflict is Normal, Not Negative: Conflict is an inherent part of human interaction, not a sign of failure. By reframing it as an opportunity for growth, clinicians can improve communication and patient care.Impact on Healthcare: Unresolved conflict contributes to 41% of perceived negative impacts on patient care, increasing errors and burnout. Mediation offers a cost-effective solution compared to high turnover costs (e.g., $56,000 to train a new nurse vs. $3,000 for mediation).Building Better Systems: By fostering grace, respect, and proactive communication, healthcare teams can design conflict management systems that enhance workplace culture and patient outcomes.About the Show: Behind every procedure, every patient encounter, lies an untold story of conflict and negotiation. Scalpel and Sword, hosted by Dr. Lee Sharma—physician, mediator, and guide—invites listeners into the unseen battles and breakthroughs of modern medicine. With real conversations, human stories, and practical tools, this podcast empowers physicians to reclaim their voices, sharpen their skills, and wield their healing power with both precision and purpose.About the Guest:Kimberly Best, RN, MA, is a registered nurse, mediator, and founder of Best Conflict Solutions. With a Master’s in Conflict Management from Lipscomb University and certifications from institutions like Pepperdine and Hofstra, she brings 30 years of clinical and mediation experience to healthcare. Kimberly designs conflict management systems and trains teams to transform workplace disputes into opportunities for growth, drawing on her background as a trauma and ER nurse.🔗 Connect with Kimberly Best:🌐 Website: BestConflictSolutions.comAbout the Host:Dr. Lee Sharma is a gynecologist based in Auburn, AL, with over 30 years of clinical experience. She holds a Master’s in Conflict Resolution and is passionate about helping colleagues navigate workplace challenges and thrive through open conversations and practical tools.Connect with Dr. Lee Sharma:📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: East Alabama Health - Dr. Sharma The Scalpel and Sword Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.