The job market is always changing, and it’s different today than it was even a few short years ago. This is especially the case for the physician job market, as there has been a significant shift in the roles and responsibilities of many healthcare professionals since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Navigating the job market can be tricky, but there are some things you can do to make your job search a bit easier.
If you’re on the hunt for a new position, here’s what to look for when navigating the current job market for physician careers.
Where Is Your Specialty in Demand?
You’ll find more (and higher paying) job opportunities if you search in a region of the country where physicians in your specialty are in great demand.
There is a shortage of physicians across the board, but rural areas are especially in need of experienced physicians in primary care and specialties such as surgery, gynecology, neurology, and emergency medicine.
If you live in a rural area or are considering moving to one, be extra thorough in your job search. There are many opportunities available and hospital groups and practices are willing to pay top dollar to add the right physician to their team.
Before You Start Your Job Search, Create a List of Priorities
Before you start sending your resume to every employer in town, make a list of what you want to get out of your next job. Then, look for employers offering what you want.
Are you looking for a large signing bonus?
More flexibility?
Less on-call hours?
More or less responsibility?
More paid time off?
The shortage of healthcare professionals has given physicians the upper hand when it comes to making demands and getting what they want. Employment contracts are always negotiable, so if you can’t find an employer offering what you want, you can always negotiate for it.
Consider a Short-term Contract or a Locum Tenens Position
Working in the same location every day is the goal of many physicians, but it’s not your only option.
Locum tenens positions are excellent opportunities for physicians that love to travel, want more flexibility, or want to work for a few months then enjoy a few months off to pursue other interests. Many employers rely on locum tenens physicians and offer short-term contracts to fill in-demand positions.
Land a short-term position that you love and you might even be able to turn it into a long-term, full-time contract.
Research Different Practice Settings
From hospitals to group practices to academic settings, there are a variety of workplace settings you might be qualified to work in.
Tired of working weekends and overnight shifts in a bustling hospital?
It might be time to consider moving to a group practice or specialty practice setting.
Looking to do more than work with patients in a clinical setting?
Consider job searching for a position as an academic faculty member, a hospital administrator, or a physician consultant.
The role of the physician consultant is both unique and broad. This article from Physicians Thrive covers what it means to be a physician consultant, and what it takes to land a position in this role.
Look for Opportunities That Align With Your Long-Term Career Goals
In addition to your immediate wants and needs, focus on job opportunities that align with your long-term career goals.
If your goal is to become a practice partner in the next five years, look for employers offering partnership opportunities.
Want more autonomy?
Search and apply for positions that offer flexibility and you can create your ideal work/life balance or enjoy more time to pursue personal interests outside of work.
Hoping to limit the hours spent on-site in a hospital?
Find an employer that allows physicians to conduct telehealth appointments remotely from the comfort of home.
Physicians have many opportunities available, so focus your job search on those that can help you achieve your overarching career goals.
The Recruitment Period is Shrinking
While it’s not unusual for the recruitment process to take several months, many employers are acting more quickly to fill positions in a much shorter time frame.
It’s reasonable to start looking for a new position when you still have a few months of work left under your current contract. Just don’t be shocked if the new employer wants you to start sooner rather than later (i.e. before your current contract ends).
A Physician Recruiter Can Make the Process Easier
Whether you’re seeking a full-time position with a multi-year contract or a short-term locums position, you can save yourself a great deal of time by enlisting the services of a physician recruitment firm.
Recruiters earn their income by placing the appropriate candidates in the right roles, and you can save yourself a great deal of time by hiring one to navigate the process for you.
In Conclusion
The job market is always changing, so do your research and learn about the current job climate before you start searching for a new role.
Whether you choose to do your job search on your own or hire a recruiter to help you navigate the process, physicians are in demand. That means more opportunities to command a higher salary, enjoy more flexibility, and land in a role that meets your unique needs, whatever they may be.
