You’ve landed a promising job offer as a new physician. All your years of medical school, residency and interning have paid off. Congratulations! But a new role is an enormous commitment, which explains the extensive hiring process which can take upwards of 3-6 months.
Job satisfaction is critical for physicians, employers, and patients alike. Your potential employer has decided you’re the best candidate for the position. But are you sure it’s right for you? We’ve compiled a list of questions to ask physician recruiters before you accept a job offer.
1. How Would You Describe the Workplace Culture?
Workplace culture is defined as the values, beliefs, attitudes, and goals shared by employees. In most cases, management shapes and influences this job culture. Culture tends to differ from workplace to workplace.
The American Psychological Association has identified five components of a healthy workplace:
- Employee involvement
- Work-life balance
- Employee growth and development
- Health and safety
- Employee recognition
Work environments that promote a healthy work culture are more likely to have higher morale, efficiency, teamwork, and retention. Throughout the hiring process, look for clues that reflect the values of a healthy workplace. Ask the hiring manager about the job culture and programs and systems in place to ensure a positive and productive environment.
2. What Is Your Patient Satisfaction Record?
Patients typically have a lot to say about their care experience—for better or worse. Patient satisfaction is another key indicator of the success of physicians and hospitals and low satisfaction rates suggest something isn’t working that needs to be addressed. Patient satisfaction is measured in a few different ways: phone calls, surveys, and online reviews. Always research patient experiences when considering an employment opportunity.
Of course, it’s impossible to please every patient all of the time. And a single negative outcome does not necessarily indicate poor patient care. However, consistent complaints about the same issues suggest larger, systemic problems that may impact your ability to provide good care.
3. What Growth Opportunities Are Available for Physicians?
Continuing professional development (CPD) is essential for physicians to stay on top of their field and keep up with current medical research, treatments, and technology. Look for an employer that prioritizes CPD to help you meet your professional goals.
Is ongoing education and training encouraged at this healthcare facility? Can physicians become leaders? Will you have the chance to lead medical teams, mentor other clinicians, and participate in committees and other initiatives? Without room to grow, you’re more likely to feel “stuck” and inclined to pursue other opportunities in the future.
4. What Is Your Employee Retention Rate?
Although the industry-wide physician shortage has been well documented, exceedingly low employee retention rates are concerning and may give pause for concern. However, keep in mind, that according to recent research, healthcare turnover rates are just beginning to return to pre-pandemic levels. Turnover does not always indicate a problem. You might inquire with the hiring manager about what steps the employer is taking to retain good physicians and attract new talent.
5. What Are the Major Challenges Facing This Workplace?
No healthcare workplace is immune from challenges. Any HR professional who says otherwise is not being transparent. What problems is the hospital or practice currently facing, and what sort of obstacles do they anticipate in the near future? How does management address challenges? Ideally, an employer with a proactive, growth-minded approach to solving problems is probably a team you want to be a part of.
6. How Do You Support Employee Well-Being and Job Satisfaction?
This question brings us back to the issue of a healthy work environment. The life of a physician is physically, emotionally, and mentally taxing. What does this employer do to support healthcare workers in all aspects of their lives?
In a UK study on workplace well-being, more than 15,000 employees weighed in on their employers’ policies regarding culture and mental health. In addition to the healthy workplace factors mentioned above, they found that physical design plays a big part in creating the ideal environment for peace, positivity, and productivity.
Why not ask for a tour of the facility if you haven’t already explored the space? Air quality, lighting, and access to green spaces like gardens and walking paths make a difference in staff mental health—both in and out of the office.
The right physician job improves the lives of you, your colleagues, and your patients. Take your time and ask the right questions to make sure your next role checks every box.