In the latest episode of Growth Unbound, host Gavin Baker interviews Stephen Wills of Knoxville Pediatric Associates (KPA). Together, they discuss the evolution of pediatric care, leadership, and overcoming current challenges facing healthcare providers and practices.
The episode begins by detailing KPA’s stance as the largest independent pediatric group in the region with:
- Five locations
- 180 employees
- And 34 providers
Wills shares how networking throughout his career led him to his current position as CEO of the group, and he reflects on the organization’s plans for expansion, including filling positions left by retiring physicians and growing their presence in underserved communities in the region.
A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the rise of vaccine hesitancy and misinformation driven by social media content. Wills explains how KPA addresses this by educating parents on the importance of vaccines and enforcing a strong vaccine policy. He emphasizes the role that clear, consistent communication plays in combatting misinformation and building trust with patients. We may not be able to stop misinformation from spreading on social media, but groups can be proactive about educational content for their patients.
Mental health is another major topic of concern in the episode. With the increasing prevalence of mental health issues in children, KPA provides basic mental health care and refers complex cases to specialists in the region. This highlights a broader shift in pediatric care as mental health becomes a more significant part of overall child health and development concerns.
Wills also touches on his background in healthcare sales and how it has shaped his leadership style. His experience has helped him manage relationships with doctors and implement organizational changes, such as improving internal reporting and enhancing communication within the leadership team. Wills shares leadership lessons he’s picked up along the way, including insights from the popular show Ted Lasso, which offers reminders about leading with empathy and staying grounded.
Overall, this episode provides valuable insight into the unique challenges of leading a large practice, from addressing misinformation online to expanding into new areas while focusing on leadership and effective internal communication.
Watch the Full Episode
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