Surgery Career FAQs: Answers from AMN Healthcare
Navigating a surgical career involves many considerations, from board certification status and case mix to contract specifics and workplace culture. To provide clarity on these topics, we asked our AMN Healthcare search consultants to answer the most common questions they receive from surgeons. This guide offers their direct insights to help inform your next career decision.
Can I secure a permanent position directly after residency?
Yes, obtaining a permanent role immediately following residency is often possible. Many hospitals and healthcare systems are open to hiring board-eligible surgeons who have recently completed their training. The primary determining factor is whether you meet the specific credentialing requirements of the hiring institution.
Watch: Joe Hawe, Senior Lead Consultant at AMN Healthcare explains residency-to-hire realities.
Is board certification required before I can apply for jobs?
Board eligibility is typically sufficient for most surgical positions. Hospitals generally understand that achieving full board certification is a process that takes time. However, it is crucial to be aware of the hospital's bylaws, which may stipulate a specific timeframe within which you must become board-certified after being hired.
What do clients look for beyond clinical skills?
While technical proficiency is fundamental, healthcare organizations place a significant emphasis on non-clinical attributes. Soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, and a willingness to integrate into the team, are top priorities. Hospitals seek to build stable, long-term teams and are looking for surgeons who demonstrate a strong cultural fit and a collaborative spirit.
How much control will I have over my schedule and case types?
The degree of control over your schedule and the types of cases you handle differs between permanent and locum tenens roles.
- Permanent Positions: These roles often come with a more structured schedule and a case mix that aligns with the facility's needs. Bread-and-butter cases are standard, but opportunities for specialty cases may be available. It is important to discuss these details during the evaluation process.
- Locum Tenens: The surgical case mix in locum roles tends to be more standardized. Facilities hiring locum surgeons typically need coverage for general call and standard procedures. However, specialty requests can be accommodated.
What benefits are typically included in employment packages?
Compensation and benefits packages vary based on the type of employment.
- Permanent Roles: A standard package often includes a guaranteed salary, a sign-on bonus, and relocation assistance. Additional benefits typically include continuing medical education (CME) stipends and comprehensive retirement plans.
- Locum Tenens Roles: Benefits are structured differently and usually include professional liability (malpractice) insurance with tail coverage, assistance with state licensing, and reimbursement for travel and housing expenses.
What kind of technology should I ask about in the OR?
The surgical landscape is continuously evolving with technological advancements. When interviewing, it is advisable to inquire about the current systems and future investment plans of the facility. Key areas to discuss include the availability of robotic-assisted surgical systems, minimally invasive technologies, and the integration of artificial intelligence into surgical practice.
Are mentorship opportunities available for new surgeons?
The availability and structure of mentorship programs vary significantly between different practice groups and hospitals. If mentorship is a priority for your career development, you should make it a point of discussion during the interview and evaluation stages.
What are the typical contract lengths?
Contract durations are dependent on the employment model:
- Permanent: Initial contracts are commonly for two to three years, though the full range can be anywhere from one to five years.
- Locum Tenens: Assignments can be as short as one week or can be ongoing, based on the facility’s coverage requirements.
Take the Next Step
For a more comprehensive look at navigating the interview process, download our full guide.
If you are ready to explore your next surgical opportunity, connect with one of our Physician Liaisons today!
