David Shulkin, MD
Former U.S. Secretary of Veteran Affairs; CEO/Physician Executive, Hospital Management & Entrepreneur
Biography
The Honorable Dr. David J. Shulkin was the ninth Secretary of the US Department of Veterans Affairs in the Trump Administration and VA’s Under Secretary of Health in the Obama Administration. As such, Secretary Shulkin was the only member of the Cabinet to have served both Presidents and to have been confirmed by the US Senate by a vote of 100-0. As Secretary, Dr. Shulkin represented the 21 million American veterans and was responsible for the nation’s largest integrated health care system with over 1,200 sites of care, serving over 9 million Veterans. VA is also the nation’s largest provider of graduate medical education and major contributor of medical research and provides veterans with disability payments, education through the GI bill, home loans, and runs a national cemetery system. Secretary Shulkin is a widely respected healthcare executive having served as chief executive of leading hospitals and health systems including Beth Israel in New York City, Morristown Medical Center in Northern NJ, and currently advises leading health systems. Secretary Shulkin has held numerous physician leadership roles including the Chief Medical Officer of the University of Pennsylvania Health System, the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University Hospital, and the Medical College of Pennsylvania Hospital. Secretary Shulkin has held academic positions including the Chairman of Medicine and Vice Dean at Drexel University School of Medicine. As an entrepreneur, he founded and served as the Chairman and CEO of DoctorQuality one of the first consumer orientated sources of information for quality and safety in healthcare. Secretary Shulkin has served on boards of managed care companies, technology companies, and health care organizations. Secretary Shulkin is a board-certified internist. He received his medical degree from the Medical College of Pennsylvania, his internship at Yale University School of Medicine, and a residency and Fellowship in General Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Presbyterian Medical Center. He received advanced training in outcomes research and economics as a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Clinical Scholar at the University of Pennsylvania. In October 2022, Shulkin was appointed as an advisor, to the Board of Directors of Brightside Health. Shulkin is known for his deep involvement in healthcare finance, focusing on cost-effective, integrated care, value-based models, and innovative solutions, often commenting on how policy, technology, and administration impact financial sustainability, particularly for veterans and underserved populations, advocating for systemic changes like TEAM models and preventive care's economic benefits. His career spans executive hospital roles, VA leadership, and advisory positions, emphasizing efficiency and aligning clinical financial systems.
Speech Topics
Lessons for Leaders on How to Navigate Health Policy While Ensuring a Climate for Innovation in their Organizations
Innovation in Healthcare
Secretary Shulkin offers a unique perspective on the future of healthcare being a physician, researcher, chief executive, entrepreneur, and former Cabinet member. Having served as CEO of several leading US health care systems, and was the only Trump cabinet member to be confirmed by the Senate 100-0. Working for both President Obama and Trump, Secretary Shulkin introduced numerous innovations and reforms to benefit our veterans. As the Distinguished Health Policy Fellow at the University of Pennsylvania and author of his new best selling book, It Shouldn't Be this Hard to Serve Your Country, Secretary Shulkin has his pulse on what is happening in today's healthcare environment.
Customized Healthcare Topics
Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check David Shulkin, MD's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about David Shulkin, MD's availability or get a customized quote by contacting Key Speakers directly. Our team will help you determine fit, logistics, and budget options for your upcoming event.What is David Shulkin, MD's speaking fee?
The typical range for David Shulkin, MD's speaking fee is $30,000–$32,000. The low end of the fee range represents their standard virtual fee. The high end of the fee range represents their standard fee for a US-based in-person speaking engagement. Appearances which require an extended schedule of activities or international travel will possibly exceed this fee range. Speaker fees update frequently. To receive a personalized quote for David Shulkin, MD to speak at your event, please consult with a Key Speakers advisor for up to date information and assistance.What factors influence the speaker's fee?
Other factors that influence a keynote speaker's fee include their reputation, expertise, demand, experience, duration of the presentation, travel requirements for the event location, and any additional services, activities or customization options they offer.Are travel expenses included in the speaker's fee?
Travel expenses are typically not included in the listed speaker's fee and are quoted separately. If the speaker needs to travel internationally, fees will be higher. These expenses may include airfare, accommodation, ground transportation at home and in the event city, and meals. We can provide more detailed information about travel expenses and arrangements once you've selected a speaker.How do I book David Shulkin, MD for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm David Shulkin, MD's availability, fees, and any unique requirements (we can also help negotiate fees and terms); submit a firm offer to extend the invite to your speaker, with the details used to create an agreement once the speaker accepts; coordinate and finalize the terms of the booking, including contract terms and conditions; and confirm the booking by signing the contract and making the necessary payments.What types of events do keynote speakers typically speak at?
Keynote speakers can speak at a wide range of events, virtual or in person, including conferences, corporate meetings, industry conventions, seminars, workshops, fundraising galas, educational programs, and other special occasions where an inspirational or informative address is desired.How do I select the right keynote speaker for my event?
When selecting a keynote speaker, consider the following factors: the speaker's expertise and knowledge relevant to your event's theme or industry; their speaking style, ability to engage the audience, and deliver impactful messages; past client testimonials, reviews, or references; and the speaker's availability and fee within your budget.What are the payment terms and conditions?
A deposit is required upon signing the contract, with the remaining balance due 2–4 weeks before the event. If the event is taking place within 30 days, the full balance is due upon signing.How far in advance should I book a keynote speaker?
It is generally advisable to book a keynote speaker as early as possible, especially if you have a specific speaker in mind or if your event is during a peak season holiday. Ideally, booking a speaker three to six months in advance can increase the chances of securing your desired speaker.Can you help me with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation?
Yes, we can assist you with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation. We stay actively involved during pre-event planning to coordinate with you and ensure that the necessary audiovisual equipment, staging, lighting, and other technical aspects are in place for a successful presentation.Are there any special requirements or accommodations that need to be considered for the speaker?
Keynote speakers may have specific requirements or accommodations that need to be considered, such as travel arrangements, accommodation preferences, dietary restrictions, or accessibility needs. Some speakers have a performance rider we include in the contract, others have minimal requirements.Do keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations?
Yes, many keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations. They can tailor their content, examples, or case studies to align with your event's theme, industry, or specific audience. Discuss your customization needs with us so we can guide you accordingly.Can the speaker participate in pre-event activities such as panel discussions or Q&A sessions?
Some keynote speakers are open to participating in pre-event activities such as panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Please share your specific requirements with us during the firm offer phase, so we can work on getting you everything you need.How long is a typical keynote speech?
The duration of a standard keynote speech can vary depending on the speaker and the event's schedule. Typically, keynote speeches range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, including any Q&A sessions or interactive elements. Some speakers can accommodate half or full day sessions and extended keynotes. Discuss the desired duration with your representative to determine the appropriate length for participation.Can I provide feedback or reviews about the speaker's performance?
Yes, we encourage and appreciate feedback about the speaker's performance as well as our services. You can share your feedback via email after the event, or via our survey feedback form. Your feedback can help us improve our services and assist other clients in making informed decisions.Are there any discounts or special offers available for booking multiple speakers or multiple events?
Often, yes. It's worth inquiring about such possibilities with your Key Speakers representative to explore any available cost-savings options.Why book David Shulkin, MD through Key Speakers?
We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker — from speaker selection to logistics to post-event feedback. We know you have lots of responsibilities on top of finding and coordinating event speakers, so having a committed and proactive partner on your side that is an expert with the talent booking process is crucial. Every time you book a speaker with Key, your dedicated events manager will support you throughout the entire planning process. We help you negotiate contractual details such as speaker fees and travel terms so that you end up with the most favorable deal. With our highly communicative booking and proposal model, you'll never be left in the dark with the status of your speaker. To put it simply, Key Speakers is your one-stop resource for finding, booking and managing speakers for your event.
Speakers Like David Shulkin, MD

Stephen Klasko, MD
• Executive in Residence, General Catalyst • Global Innovation Ambassador, Sheba Medical Center, Israel • Distinguished Fellow, World Economic Forum • Former President and CEO, Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Health •Appointed by President Biden with senate confirmation to the National Board of Education Sciences. •Started his career as DJ “Stevie Kent”
Fee Range: $14,000–$25,000
Travels From: FL

Daniel Kraft, MD
Daniel Kraft is a Stanford and Harvard trained physician, scientist, entrepreneur, inventor and innovator who speaks on how rapidly developing technologies are and will impact the future of healthcare and medicine.
Fee Range: $21,000–$30,000
Travels From: CA
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