Resources & Information

In November I was sworn in as President of the North Carolina Medical Board. I am humbled by this honor and committed to doing all that I can to ensure that NCMB is stronger and optimally positioned to fulfill its mission of patient protection when my term is done.

I look forward to outlining my priorities as Board President early in the new year, but for now I want to share my thoughts on the great importance of dedicated and engaged licensees continuing to step forward to serve as Board Members with NCMB. North Carolina is a state that grants the medical profession the privilege of self-regulation, which means that a majority of Board Members are licensees (specifically, physicians). As clinicians, we can show that we value this opportunity to protect the public and the integrity of the medical profession through our willingness to serve. If you are ready to serve, NCMB has two physician seats available now, with applications due Jan. 9.

Medical regulation is meaningful and rewarding in ways that I could not have anticipated when I was first appointed in fall of 2020. In this issue of the Forum, I am pleased to help re-launch a recurring feature of this newsletter that asks current Board Members to reflect on how service with NCMB has impacted them. I hope you enjoy my installment, “Five Questions with Dr. Anuradha Rao-Patel”.

1. How has serving on the Board changed you as a clinician?

It has made me more reflective and more intentional. I think more deeply about communication, documentation, and boundaries.

2. What is your favorite part of being a Board Member?

The people and the conversations. We have incredibly thoughtful Board Members and staff who care deeply about getting it right. The collaborative nature of the work is something I truly enjoy.

3. Has serving on the Board deepened your connection to the medical community and your patients?

Absolutely. You gain a broader understanding of the challenges clinicians face and the expectations patients have. It reinforces that we’re all part of the same ecosystem, and it’s strengthened my sense of shared responsibility.

4. What has been the most surprising thing you’ve learned?

How much nuance there is in every case. Nothing is ever purely clinical or purely behavioral—there’s always a human story behind it. I’ve been surprised by just how complex—and how meaningful—this work really is.

5. What are your thoughts on the importance of self-regulation?

Self-regulation is essential to maintaining public trust. It allows those who understand the realities of clinical practice to set standards while holding ourselves accountable in a transparent and fair way. It’s a responsibility we can’t take lightly.

Anuradha Rao-Patel, MD, assumed the role of NCMB President in November 2025 and will serve in that capacity until October 31, 2026. Learn more about her.