On June 11, Patrice A. Harris, MD, made history when she was sworn in as the first black female president of the American Medical Association. Here, she discusses the association’s priorities, growth opportunities and leadership lessons she has learned.

Q: What are the key opportunities for growth and innovation at the AMA?

PH: In 2016, AMA launched Health2047, an independent innovation enterprise in the heart of Silicon Valley. It’s since spun out companies of its own that directly address critical system needs. Too often, physicians are treated as an afterthought during technology development. Overlooking physician requirements is one reason medical technology may have slow uptake or not live up to its promise. The AMA believes when physicians and tech players are aligned on the challenges and opportunities in healthcare, we can expect meaningful results from the leading edge of technology.