My journey has been anything but linear. It’s been a continuous process of growth, challenges and, most importantly, learning. I’ve come to understand that true success extends beyond knowledge and skills. It requires building strong interpersonal connections with my patients and colleagues. It means being resilient in the face of obstacles. And, above all, it means staying committed to creating lasting value for my patients and the greater medical community. Reflecting on my years in the field, I recognize three distinct phases that have influenced my approach to medicine.
The First 10 Years: Building Foundations
Making the leap from academia to independent practice, I quickly learned how different the real world of medicine was. Up until that point, everything was structured for me. Suddenly, I was on my own. I wasn’t just responsible for providing excellent care; I had to figure out how to run a business and build my reputation. It’s easy to see health care as a solo endeavor and that the doctor calls the shots. The truth is that every team member is responsible for working toward a holistic approach to patient health. Being approachable to my patients wasn’t enough. Their care was influenced by the connections I built with referring physicians and colleagues. I did it; I got there, but I didn’t do it alone.
The Second 10 Years: Expanding Expertise and Influence
The decision to niche in gastroenterology was a blend of soul-searching and serendipity. In 1998, when a new medication for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) was introduced, I became part of the ongoing advancements and research. Experiencing firsthand the impact of this medication ignited my passion for treating patients with chronic conditions like IBD.
I also discovered the importance of autonomy in developing my practice to reflect my values. A lack of autonomy leads to burnout when you're treated like a "widget" in the health care machine with no room for personal input or growth. With autonomy, you can be more thoughtful about your career, make decisions based on your professional interests and have the space to push boundaries like I did with IBD. That flexibility helped me stay engaged with my work.
I’ve always believed that challenges are just opportunities I haven’t figured out yet. To set ourselves apart from other practices in the area, we opened our first ambulatory center and expanded our services with our first infusion center and then a research center. Patients recognized our commitment to their health.
The Third 10 Years: Mentorship, Leadership and Legacy
Over the last 10 years, my focus has shifted to mentoring. I’ve always believed that a good mentor doesn’t just pass on knowledge—they help the next generation find their passion, teaching them to connect with patients and see them as people, not conditions. I still see the importance of collaboration. Medicine is a team effort. A good leader treats others with respect and creates a positive culture. From that culture, everything else flows. The best teams function well because relationships are not built on a hierarchy.
Experience allowed me to shift from grinding to making strategic impacts. To avoid burnout, one must recognize one’s limits and balance responsibilities, and balance looks different for every generation. Younger physicians need to hear that work ethics are important—but so is knowing when to step back. Keep the focus on the patient and an environment where education, professional development and compassionate care remain at the forefront. As career priorities shift, your mindset should as well. Medicine is unpredictable, but attitude, effort and relationships are always within reach.
Final Thoughts: A Career Built on Growth and Relationships
Building a career in gastroenterology has been a constant evolution, but I stay curious and never lose sight of why I started. If I had to sum up my career philosophy in one sentence, it would be this: Treat every patient, colleague and support team member with respect and dignity while constantly striving to grow, improve and create a healthier, more positive experience for everyone I encounter. I am proud of the work I’ve done. I also know that the journey isn’t over. I’m still learning, still growing and still working to make a difference. The best part? I get to share that with others. My legacy won’t be measured by the years I’ve worked but by the lives I’ve impacted along the way.
Joe Cappa, MD, is the Northeast Division governor with GI Alliance, chairman of Connecticut GI and the medical director of Hartford Hospital GI Endoscopy Unit, Glastonbury Endoscopy Center and Bloomfield Endoscopy Center.