How to start off on the right foot in a new practice: three pointers

Whether you’re a new physician just out of residency or a veteran physician joining a new practice, these “lessons learned” can help you be more successful from the start.

1. Check your ego at the door. The learning curve for any new position can be steep, so be humble, respect the knowledge of others in the practice, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

2. Avoid office politics with policies. Practices can implode when physicians feel obligated to get in the middle of every problem or quarrel among staff. Let your office manager assist you in handling these matters, and make sure the practice has sound policies and procedures in place so that expectations and consequences are clear.

3. Set yourself up for work-life balance. Before you begin your new job, give yourself a well-deserved break and make sure your personal life is in order. If you negotiated a signing bonus, that can help alleviate the personal stress of student loan payments or transition expenses. Also, to protect your personal life, learn how to manage your workflow efficiently and finish charting by the end of the workday.

Adapted from “Easing Into Your New Practice After Residency: Tips for Success.”