One of the more challenging questions you might face in a residency interview is, “What would you do if you disagreed with your attending physician?”
This question is designed to assess your conflict-resolution skills, professionalism, and ability to navigate complex team dynamics.
Residency programs want to know that you can handle differences of opinion with a focus on patient safety, open communication, and respect for your attending’s expertise.
A strong response should show that you are capable of managing disagreements in a way that prioritizes patient care and maintains professional relationships.
This blog will explore:
• Why residency programs ask, “What would you do if you disagreed with your attending physician?”
• Key elements to include in your response.
• How to conduct effective research to support your answer.
• Strategies for structuring your response to show professionalism and respect.
• Common mistakes to avoid when answering this question.
• Sample responses tailored to different specialties.
• Tips for non-native English speakers to communicate their approach effectively.
• The benefits of professional coaching for non-native English-speaking physicians.
Why Residency Programs Ask This Question
Residency programs ask, “What would you do if you disagreed with your attending physician?” to evaluate your approach to handling professional disagreements.
As a resident, you’ll be expected to collaborate closely with attendings and other healthcare professionals, which means that differences in opinion are inevitable. The purpose of this question is to see whether you can navigate these situations without compromising patient safety, damaging professional relationships, or creating a negative work environment.
A thoughtful and well-structured response will show that you are capable of handling conflicts constructively and can prioritize the well-being of your patients above all else.
Key Elements to Include in Your Answer
Your response should reflect your ability to maintain professionalism, communicate effectively, and show a commitment to patient safety.
Start by acknowledging the importance of respecting your attending’s expertise and maintaining a collaborative approach.
Then, focus on how you would use open communication to express your concerns, ensuring that your approach is based on patient well-being and evidence-based practices.
Finally, conclude by mentioning what you learned from the experience and how it shaped your approach to professional conflicts.
If this is something that has happened in the past, it's best to tell the interview "In fact, this is something that happened before. Let me tell you about what happened." It is always more persuasive to use a past example instead of a hypothetical example. Use OmniInterview’s (I)STAR(T) Framework to manage the disagreement, emphasizing your actions and decision-making process.
How to Conduct Effective Research to Support Your Answer
To craft a strong response, it’s essential to understand what residency programs value in terms of teamwork, communication, and conflict resolution.
Start by reviewing the program’s core values and mission statement to get a sense of the qualities they prioritize in their residents. Focus on patient safety, collaborative decision-making, and a commitment to evidence-based care.
When discussing your response, reference these values to show that your approach aligns with the program’s expectations.
For more information on how to tailor your answers to specific programs, visit our medical residency interview preparation page.
Structuring Your Answer
A strong response should be structured with a clear opening, middle, and end.
Start by acknowledging the importance of maintaining a respectful and professional attitude during disagreements. Mention that patient safety and evidence-based care guide your decision-making.
In the middle section, describe a relevant experience where you handled a disagreement using the OmniInterview’s (I)STAR(T) Framework. If you haven’t had such an experience, outline a hypothetical scenario that demonstrates your thought process and approach. Be sure to focus on 3-5 key actions you took, such as gathering additional data, discussing concerns privately, and seeking collaborative solutions.
Conclude by discussing what you learned and how the experience reinforced your commitment to maintaining a positive professional environment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most common mistakes is appearing confrontational or overly defensive in your response.
Remember that the goal is not to “win” the disagreement but to find a resolution that prioritizes patient care and respects the attending’s expertise.
Another mistake is being too passive or failing to express your concerns clearly. Programs want to see that you can stand by your professional opinions while maintaining a respectful and open-minded attitude. Lastly, avoid vague or overly simplistic responses.
Make sure your answer includes specific actions and examples that show your ability to navigate complex professional dynamics.
Sample Responses for Key Specialties
Internal Medicine
“If I disagreed with my attending physician, I would first ensure that my concern is rooted in evidence-based practice and patient safety. For example, during one of my clinical rotations, I found that the management plan suggested by my attending differed from the latest evidence on anticoagulation therapy. Instead of addressing the issue publicly, I asked to speak with my attending privately and presented the relevant research. We discussed the case, and my attending explained additional patient-specific factors I hadn’t considered. In the end, I gained a better understanding of patient management and learned the importance of approaching disagreements with curiosity and respect.”
Pediatrics
“In pediatrics, patient safety and family-centered care are paramount. If I had a disagreement with my attending, I would approach the situation with a focus on understanding their perspective and sharing my concerns respectfully. During one of my rotations, I disagreed with the plan to delay a diagnostic test for a child showing signs of respiratory distress. I approached my attending privately, presented my observations, and asked if there were factors I might have overlooked. We reviewed the case together and decided to proceed with the test earlier. This experience reinforced the value of communication and teamwork in ensuring the best outcomes for patients.”
Family Medicine
“In family medicine, building trust within the team is crucial. If I disagreed with my attending’s approach, I would first take time to reflect on whether my concern is based on patient safety or a personal preference. If it’s the former, I would bring up the issue during a private discussion, expressing my view with supporting evidence. I remember a time when I felt a patient’s cultural background wasn’t fully considered in a treatment plan. I shared my perspective and suggested involving a cultural liaison. My attending appreciated my input, and we adapted the plan, ultimately providing more culturally sensitive care.”
Tips for Non-Native English Speakers
For non-native English speakers, communicating your approach to professional disagreements clearly and confidently can be challenging. Practice using respectful language that conveys your thoughts without sounding confrontational.
For example, phrases like “I understand your perspective, but I am concerned about…” can help soften your approach. Record yourself answering similar questions to refine your delivery, focusing on tone and clarity.
If you need additional support, consider working with a coach who specializes in preparing non-native speakers for residency interviews. Check out our client testimonials to see how OmniInterview has helped others succeed.
Master the Conversation
Handling disagreements in a professional setting requires a careful balance of respect, communication, and a focus on patient care. If you want to refine your approach and ensure you’re prepared for tough residency interview questions, consider booking a discovery session with OmniInterview. We specialize in helping non-native English speakers communicate their responses clearly and confidently, making a strong impression during their residency interviews.
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