AAHPM reached out to the 2024 Emerging Leaders to gain insight into what motivated them to pursue leadership positions and what they find more fulfilling in their experiences. Kara Bischoff, MD has been recognized as one of the exceptional individuals chosen as a 2024 AAHPM Emerging Leader in Hospice and Palliative Care.
Who has most influenced your work and how have they shaped your contributions?
I have been enormously shaped by many dear colleagues – including nurses, social workers, spiritual care providers, and physicians – who I have the pleasure of working closely with. Their tireless dedication to patients and families, interest in innovating and continually improving care, and their thoughtfulness and generosity of heart inspire me every day. One of my mentors Steve Pantilat has been a very consistent source of support, guidance, and good ideas. I appreciate the trust he has had in me and all the interesting opportunities he has offered me.
What is the significance to you of being recognized as a “Emerging Leader” in Hospice and Palliative Medicine?
I am incredibly honored to be recognized as an Emerging Leader in Hospice & Palliative Care, particularly as our field is filled with passionate, dedicated, and talented people. This recognition motivates me to think about how we can innovate and advance our field in even more bold and creative ways in the years to come, to meet the enormous needs of people facing serious illness.
What is your aspiration for the evolution of hospice and Palliative Medicine?
I aspire for the fields of Hospice and Palliative Care to actively include and equitably serve people of all backgrounds, cultures, races, ethnicities, genders, and other identities. I also hope that we will continue to grow our evidence base to demonstrate the true value of our services. Further, I see a future where we continue to move our care upstream from the end-of-life period and help people live fully – with joy, meaning, purpose and connection – from the time of diagnosis of a serious illness.
Learn more about the AAHPM 2024 Emerging Leaders in Hospice and Palliative Care and view a full list of all current and past Emerging Leaders.