Insights after one year as an attending in private practice
At a private practice in US doing surgicals only. 1st job out of fellowship. Signed out almost 8000 cases. Mixed of biopsies, smalls and bigs. Partnership track. Want to share some insights for graduates starting as attendings soon.
Don’t be scared to ask questions, if you’re even a little bit unsure, just show the case to a coworker. But learn from the case so you know how to approach it going forward.
Know the difference between a curbside consult and an official consult
Do whatever helps you sleep at night. Order the stain, or level, but voice out why you are doing it. Other people might say not to do it, but it’s ultimately your case and you need to be ok with how it’s signed out.
Learn the EMR/LIS and set up your templates to make your workflow efficient. Takes a lot of time in the beginning but it makes you much more efficient later on.
Know how reimbursement works (AP and CP), and how much revenue you are generating.
Market is great right now, don’t be afraid to apply to other jobs if your first job sucks. But talk to people on the other side first, grass isn’t always greener.
Last one, splurge and get yourself something nice. Congratulations! You finally made it!