I’m energized by a wide-ranging case mix and control over my time. Which careeer choice makes the most sense?

The private practice ophthalmologist generally has more flexibility and autonomy to decide their individual scope of practice, malpractice, clinic schedule, and vacation times, business practices and policies, and administrative structure (e.g., human resources, hiring and firing staff, physical plant, equipment).
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I’m very risk averse and have heard goods things regarding The Integrated Delivery Systems (IDS) benefits, e.g. income guarantee, academic appointment etc. Are there any downsides I should know about?

In an integrated delivery system (IDS), the hospital and its affiliated clinics serve as the hub for care delivery.
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I’m tempted by the learning culture and case mix offered by a career in academia. But are there any significant financial benefits to choosing this over private practice?

Steven E. Wilson, MD and professor in Vision Research, and chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Washington, Seattle,
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I’m a man and wear a tasteful hoop earring on one ear. Is it appropriate for me to wear this on my first interview?

What you are wearing and your overall grooming are part of your “package” and can contribute to your making a favorable or unfavorable impression. Keep in mind that there is no such thing as neutral clothing – everything you wear says something about you.
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I’m always uncomfortable using notes during a presentation. Any tips on how to successfully pull this off?

Unfortunately, it is easy for notes to become a crutch for the speaker and a distraction for the audience. Following are some tips to creating effective notes and using them properly:
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I’m pretty much a Type A personality, and am very driven, often working extremely long hours. If I feel productive, why worry so much about getting a “work life balance”?. If I feel productive, why worry so much about getting a “work life balance”?

Success in your healthcare career will be that much sweeter and fruitful if it is balanced with a fulfilling life outside of medicine. To maintain self-esteem and motivation, physicians should build support systems and pursue interests outside of medicine.
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I’m aware that modifiers are used to indicate a procedure has been altered, etc., but how else are they used?

Modifiers may be used to indicate to the recipient of a report that:
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I’m determined to recruit a particularly talented physician, but I need some serious leverage in order to lure him in. What can I do?

When trying to lure a valued physician into your practice, first determine what deal elements are most importantn to them. Is is base compensation or equity and long-term returns? Are they motivated more by life-style value or financial?
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I’m in my last year of training and am anxious to find the ideal position. How can I speed up the timeline on my job search?

Ideally, a comprehensive career assessment should be completed 24-18 months prior to completion of training. It is important to note that the timeline described is the “optimal” timeline. If you are in your last year of training and have not yet begun your search, all is not lost.
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In order to achieve more equilibrium in your personal and professional life you must identify your priorities and take time to reflect. What does that mean to you?

Decide what is most important to you professionally, socially, spiritually and creatively.
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Jonathan Pite