Dr Ezzaddin Al Wahsh Shares Insights On Mentorship and Clinical Informatics Leadership

Dr. Ezzaddin Al Wahsh, MD, MBA, is a distinguished figure in the field of clinical informatics and healthcare technology, known for his innovative approach to integrating artificial intelligence into medical practices. With over a decade of experience, he has made significant contributions to the fields of internal medicine and healthcare technology, particularly during his tenure as a Clinical Informatics Fellow at the prestigious Mayo Clinic. His work focuses on developing comprehensive lifecycle frameworks for AI products in healthcare to ensure ethical and responsible implementation, which has positioned him as a leader in this transformative field.

In the following interview, Dr. Ezzadin Al Wahsh shares insights into his professional journey, mentorship influences, and the principles that guide his work in clinical informatics.

Mentorship and Influences

Who has had the most profound impact on your professional journey, and what principles or values did you take from that relationship?

During my tenure with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), I worked closely with an orthopedic physician who exemplified humility, dedication, and integrity. Despite limited resources, he consistently built bridges with both patients and staff through genuine connections. He would personally clean before and after visits and assist patients with disabilities. He devoted as much time as necessary to conducting thorough histories and physical exams, always offering unbiased recommendations that prioritized the patient’s best interest. Another influential mentor was a pathology physician at the Mayo Clinic.

Despite a significant age difference, he was remarkably kind and receptive. He encouraged growth through listening and creating space for development. Through his example, I learned the value of doing more with less and how to lead efficiently while remaining empathetic.

How do you approach mentoring emerging professionals, whether in academia, medicine, or leadership?

I believe in giving time and space. It’s natural to want to provide answers, but I begin by creating a dialogue, clarifying roles, and setting the stage for the mentee to take ownership of their story. This requires patience and the discipline to step back. I aim to motivate—many mentees already know what they need to do; they just need inspiration, often in the form of a story or example. I also coach—offering clear, constructive guidance to shape their thinking and approach when appropriate.

Was there a moment when a mentor’s advice reshaped your thinking or guided a major career decision?

Yes. At the Mayo Clinic, my director and mentor told me that to succeed in the emerging field of clinical informatics, I needed to “be proactive.” That advice pushed me to take the initiative despite uncertainty and to embrace failure as an essential part of the journey toward success.

How do you ensure that your mentoring relationships are mutually beneficial and built on trust?

I value relationships founded on genuine human connection. I begin by introducing myself, sharing part of my journey, and learning about my mentee’s background. From there, we find common ground and differences. We define a mutual purpose—something that may take time, and that’s okay. Once established, we set clear roles and expectations. I align my benefits with theirs; for instance, if a mentee succeeds in their research and demonstrates character, I view that as my success, too.

When selecting mentors or advisors throughout your career, what attributes have mattered most to you?

Morality—specifically honesty and the courage to speak the truth—has always been essential. I also deeply value empathy; mentors who demonstrated genuine empathy have left a lasting impact on me.

In what ways has your mentoring approach evolved as you’ve taken on more senior roles or responsibilities?

Initially, I was very directive—telling mentees exactly what to do. Over time, I adopted a more non-directive approach, allowing them space to find their own path. Today, I integrate both approaches: guiding when needed while still empowering them to lead their own development.

How has being both a mentor and a mentee shaped your approach to leadership and service?

Just as a good student can become a good teacher, a thoughtful mentee often becomes an insightful mentor. Being on both sides has made me more empathetic. I try to see things from both perspectives. I’ve also learned that setting boundaries is important—sometimes, if a mentee does not meet expectations, it’s imperative to call that out and make sure this doesn’t happen. Mentorship is a form of a contract that needs to be fulfilled and respected. This kind of accountability benefits both of us.

What qualities do you look for in individuals you choose to mentor or invest time in developing?

Honesty, grit, and selflessness.

What do you find most meaningful or fulfilling about mentoring the next generation of professionals?

It’s a way of giving back—to the mentors who supported us, and to our patients, who shaped us. It’s fulfilling to help others become the best version of themselves and to contribute to the growth of the next generation of professionals who carry hope and ambition into the future.

How do you maintain long-term relationships with mentors and continue learning from those earlier in your career?

I stay in touch every few months through calls, emails, or letters. I also reconnect with mentors at national and international conferences. I enjoy attending their lectures, reading their posters, and volunteering to review their work or offer feedback as part of their audience.

Expertise and Achievements

Could you share some of the key projects and achievements that have defined your career in healthcare technology?

Certainly. At the Mayo Clinic, I led initiatives to develop AI lifecycle oversight tools, including model cards aimed at validating machine learning in healthcare. This was crucial for ensuring that AI applications in clinical settings are both effective and safe. I also spearheaded the enhancement of clinical decision support systems to reduce alert fatigue, significantly improving system efficacy and user experience. Another highlight was the implementation of an AI triage tool for ENT departments, which greatly improved workflow efficiency.

What do you consider to be your most significant contributions to the field of clinical informatics?

My most significant contribution is the creation of a comprehensive AI product lifecycle framework. This framework ensures ethical and responsible AI use in healthcare, addressing critical issues such as bias and reliability. My work on AI-driven in-basket triage systems and clinical decision support tools has also contributed to optimizing healthcare delivery and reducing the cognitive load on medical staff.

You’ve been involved in several hackathons, even advising winning teams. How do these experiences influence your work?

Hackathons are an excellent way to foster innovation and bring together diverse perspectives. Advising teams at events in Palo Alto has been particularly rewarding because it allows me to impart clinical insights to highly creative AI solutions. These experiences not only inspire my work but also provide fresh ideas and approaches that I can integrate into my projects.

Your educational background is quite impressive. How has it shaped your approach to innovation and leadership in healthcare?

My education has been foundational in blending medical knowledge with technological innovation. The MBA in Global Innovation from California State University taught me strategic thinking and business acumen, while certifications from Harvard, MIT, and Wharton empowered me with cutting-edge insights into AI and digital health. These diverse experiences help me approach healthcare challenges holistically and strategically.

Vision for the Future

What is your vision for the future of AI in healthcare, particularly in terms of clinical informatics?

I envision a future where AI becomes a seamless part of every healthcare interaction, enhancing decision-making while maintaining the human touch. AI will not replace clinicians but will act as a powerful tool to augment their capabilities, ensuring higher precision and better outcomes. This will require robust frameworks to manage AI deployment, focusing on ethics, transparency, and continuous learning.

How do you see your role evolving in this rapidly changing landscape?

As the field grows, I aim to continue leading efforts in developing frameworks that support ethical AI practices. I also plan to play a crucial role in educating and preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals to embrace and effectively use AI technologies. Staying engaged with global research and innovation communities will be essential to keep advancing the field.

What challenges do you foresee in achieving this vision, and how can they be addressed?

The primary challenges include managing the ethical implications of AI, ensuring data privacy, and overcoming resistance to change within traditional clinical settings. Addressing these requires collaborative efforts across disciplines to develop comprehensive policies and training programs that emphasize ethical practices and data stewardship. Continuous education and dialogue will be key in transforming these challenges into opportunities.

In your opinion, what is the most pressing issue in healthcare today that technology could help solve?

One of the most pressing issues is the efficient allocation of medical resources, especially in underserved areas. AI and other technologies can enhance resource management by predicting demand trends and optimizing logistics, ensuring that all patients receive timely and adequate care.

Dr. Ezzaddin Al Wahsh mentors clinical informatics to shape the future with his innovative approach and dedication to ethical AI deployment in healthcare. His work not only improves current practices but also inspires future advancements in the field, reflecting his unwavering commitment to enhancing patient care and advancing medical knowledge.