TY - JOUR AU - Do, Victor AU - Maniate, Jerry M AU - Sonnenberg, Lyn K PY - 2021/11/02 Y2 - 2024/03/28 TI - To lead or to influence? JF - Canadian Medical Education Journal JA - Can. Med. Ed. J VL - 12 IS - 5 SE - Canadiana DO - 10.36834/cmej.72551 UR - https://journalhosting.ucalgary.ca/index.php/cmej/article/view/72551 SP - 59-60 AB - <p>One skill set identified within the CanMEDS Framework (CanMEDS) as essential to training future physicians is the <em>Leader</em> role.  Arguably however, the term <em>Leader</em> carries certain connotations that are inconsistent with the abilities outlined by CanMEDS as necessary for physicians.  For example, the term <em>Leader</em> may connote hierarchical authority and formalized responsibilities, while de-emphasizing informal day-to-day influencing.  This CanMEDS role was first labelled <em>Manager</em>, but was re-named <em>Leader </em>in 2015.  Perhaps the focus of this CanMEDS role should be further refined by adopting a more representative term that reflects the concept of intentional influence. Through this lens, learners can discern significant opportunities to influence positively each of the clinical and non-clinical environments they encounter.  We suggest that re-framing the <em>Leader</em> role as an <em>Influencer</em> role will be more comprehensive and inclusive of its full scope and potential.   Accordingly, given the potential for broader applicability and resonance with learners, collaborators, and the populations we serve, consideration should be given to re-characterizing the CanMEDS role of <em>Leader</em> as that of <em>Influencer</em>.</p> ER -