Why Hospitals Should Be Run by Doctors—and Why That Matters in Real Estate Too

Christian Gile • September 10, 2025

Physician Leadership: A Proven Advantage


Back in 2011, the New York Times posed a powerful question: Should hospitals be run by doctors? At the time, studies suggested that hospitals led by physicians consistently ranked higher in quality than those managed by career administrators. Nearly fifteen years later, the evidence is even stronger.


A 2025 article in The Guardian highlighted that physician-led systems deliver better patient care, reduce wait times, and improve efficiency. They also tend to be early adopters of healthcare innovation, including digital tools and artificial intelligence. Institutions such as Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic—both physician-led—consistently appear at the top of global hospital rankings.


Why Expertise Matters in Leadership


Doctors who step into leadership bring something no career administrator can: lived experience. They understand the pressures of diagnosing, the realities of treatment, and the importance of patient trust. That perspective shapes better decisions, ensures policies align with clinical realities, and builds credibility with staff. When the leader has “walked the walk,” teams are more likely to follow.


The Parallel in Real Estate


The same principle holds true in commercial real estate. Your lease or purchase contract is one of the largest financial commitments your practice will ever make. The details—Renewal Options, Tenant Improvements, Operating Expenses, etc.—can either create opportunity, or lead to years of costly mistakes.


That is why an experienced broker should guide the negotiation. Brokers know the market, understand where landlords have flexibility, and can anticipate risks that others overlook. Most importantly, they advocate for you—not the landlord—and align the deal terms with your long-term goals.


Expertise Is Not Optional


Just as physician-led hospitals improve outcomes for patients, broker-led negotiations improve outcomes for medical practices. In both healthcare and real estate, expertise is not optional. It is the factor that turns a high-stakes commitment into a long-term success story.



After graduating from the United States Air Force Academy in 1998, Christian served in the U.S. Air Force for 13 years in Texas, California, Arizona, and Colorado. After his service, Christian Gile founded GILE Commercial Real Estate specializing in medical real estate and investment services. Christian has personally negotiated over 3,000 Commercial Real Estate deals for his clients. Christian loves what he does, enabling him to produce extraordinary results; the evidence? It is in the wealth he has created for his clients.


Phone: (602) 980-3171


Email: christian@gilecre.com

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