How to Know if a Physician Job Offer is the Right One

Sometimes it all comes down to fit. Other times it’s all about geography. And then there’s compensation, culture, community and career advancement opportunities to consider. 

Yes, figuring out which physician job offer to accept can be daunting and difficult. 

Many people focus on the financials, which is the most obvious consideration. But money isn’t everything–especially when you’re looking at launching or continuing a career that is likely to last decades. 

Here’s a look five of the most important factors to consider when determining whether a physician job offer is right for you:

1) Consider compensation

Money matters. But when considering the compensation attached to a physician job offer, it’s wise to look beyond the base pay. 

You’ll also want to look at the financial viability of the practice, income guarantees, incentives, the overall benefits package, buy-ins to insurance programs and opportunities for career advancement. 

Together, these elements add up to your total compensation. 

If it all seems like too much to digest on your own, consider having an independent medical consultant review the offer and advise as to whether it is a good opportunity. 

2) Consider cultural compatibility

Money matters, but it isn’t everything. Many physicians have accepted the highest-paying job offer only to discover that the culture of the practice doesn’t fit with their personality, career goals or day-to-day expectations. 

The best way to prevent this from happening is to identify what you value in a work culture, and then spend some time looking into the practice or healthcare system that made you the offer. 

Interview physicians who work there. Call physicians who have recently left. Look at media reports about the people and practice. Talk to community members about their feelings towards the organization. 

Doing your due diligence on the front end can help you make a smart decision that pays dividends for years to come. 

3) Consider governance and management 

For whom will you be working? Who oversees the work of the physicians? Are there opportunities for you to be part of the leadership team, either immediately or in the future? 

The answers to these questions will play a big role in your day-to-day work, career advancement opportunities and overall career arc. 

In addition, you should consider the communications practices that are employed by the organization. How often are staff meetings held? Will you have access to the president, physician leadership and others who make decisions? 

Ensuring that you have a voice is important. 

4) Consider the systems 

Working in a healthcare organization that is strategic about everything from creating a productive work environment to clearly defining job descriptions to ensuring quality and safety means that you are more likely to be successful. 

The best places to work provide you with the resources you need to succeed. They are where you have opportunities to learn and grow in a congenial, stimulating and well-organized system. 

5) Consider community

You’re going to be spending a lot of time with your colleagues, but you’ll also be spending a considerable amount of time in the community. 

Ask yourself whether the area offers ample opportunities to enjoy yourself out of the office. Take a close look at the schools. Consider nightlife, dining, arts and culture, and other activities. 

Work-life balance matters to your overall quality of life. After all, you can’t live at the hospital. 

Find a job that’s a good fit for you

If you are ready to work for a health system that values its employees, provides an excellent work environment in an area of the country that delivers a great quality of life, take a look at Elliot Health System today.