Finding a fulfilling career in medicine hinges on selecting a supportive and positive work environment. Conversely, choosing the wrong setting can lead to burnout and disruptive career changes. As residents and fellows approach the end of their training, the process of evaluating job prospects can feel daunting. However, by understanding how to assess job opportunities, physicians can identify positions that align with their values and priorities. “There are elements we can control that impact burnout. The job search is an opportunity to find a place that supports you both professionally and personally,” says Dr. Alexandra Ristow, lead primary care physician at Patina, a virtual and in-home care practice for seniors in Pennsylvania. “Given that you’ll spend a significant part of your week at work, it’s crucial to find a position that resonates with your values and allows you to thrive.”
To help physicians in their search, the AMA STEPS Forward® toolkit offers key steps for evaluating job opportunities.
Identify Your Priorities
Before starting your job search, take time to reflect on your priorities. Consider factors such as location, schedule, practice size, compensation, and patient demographics.
“New physicians often feel pressured to secure a job, having just navigated medical school and residency,” notes Dr. Ristow, who authored the toolkit. “It’s essential to pause and consider what aspects of your work you can influence.”
This reflection is particularly critical as more doctors choose hospital employment over private practice. Employment contracts can significantly affect whether doctors feel they are living their professional dreams, explains Elizabeth A. Snelson, president of Legal Counsel for the Medical Staff PLLC.
Understand Available Practice Settings
Many physicians train in large medical organizations, but various practice settings exist. Exploring these options is vital for making informed decisions.
“Coming from a multi-specialty academic center, I didn’t fully grasp what different practice settings would mean for my daily life,” Dr. Ristow shares.
Start Your Search
Once you have a clear understanding of your priorities and preferred practice environment, you can begin your job search.
“Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed,” Dr. Ristow advises. It’s important to manage your leads to avoid confusion. The AMA provides resources to assist in your career planning, including insights on employment contracts and available positions nationwide.
Inquire About Support and Quality of Life
As you narrow down job opportunities, engage in detailed discussions with practice managers and medical directors about the support systems in place and overall quality of life.
“There’s significant variability in how practices operate and support their physicians,” Dr. Ristow emphasizes. Understanding these dynamics is critical for evaluating your potential day-to-day experience.
Evaluate EHR and Technology
The usability of electronic health records (EHR) significantly impacts work-life balance. Discuss EHR satisfaction and support during your interviews.
“Ensure there’s adequate training and support for the EHR to facilitate your documentation process,” Dr. Ristow advises. The AMA offers resources to help evaluate potential employers' technology use.
Assess Workplace Culture
Understanding workplace culture is vital, though it can be challenging to gauge.
“Instead of asking about general culture, request specific examples, like recent policy changes and their decision-making processes,” Dr. Ristow suggests. This approach can provide valuable insights into the practice's environment.
Analyze Compensation
While compensation is crucial, a single salary figure may not tell the full story. A higher salary may come with long hours, inadequate support, or inefficient systems.
“Dig into the details of bonuses and production requirements to ensure they’re reasonable,” Dr. Ristow cautions.
Review Contracts and Negotiate
Once you receive a job offer, carefully review and negotiate your employment contract based on your priorities.
Hiring a lawyer experienced in physician employment agreements is essential. “Employment law can be complex, particularly for physicians due to regulatory nuances,” explains Snelson. An attorney familiar with physician contracts can help you navigate potential pitfalls and evaluate competing offers.
An experienced attorney can also provide insights about the employer's reputation, stability, and treatment of physicians—critical factors for determining fit.
“Never attempt to navigate this process alone,” Snelson advises.
By taking these steps, physicians can make informed choices about their career paths, ultimately leading to a more satisfying and sustainable practice experience.
Source: American Medical Association | October 16, 2024