The Critical First Three Years

A physician’s first three years in a practice hold the greatest likelihood for separation. According to the Cejka Search and AMGA 2006 Physician Retention Survey, 46% of separating physicians leave within the first three years. During this time, organizations should examine recruitment and retention efforts.

During the orientation period, new physicians should receive intensive job training and social introductions to make them more comfortable with their new surroundings. Helping a new physician fit in with your group can increase your chances of keeping that physician as a satisfied and productive member of your organization.

Many retention initiatives have proven successful in retaining employees through the first three years. By implementing some of the following initiatives, your organization will internally strengthen your retention of physicians over the long term. Successful initiatives include:

· Regular feedback and performance reviews
· Partnership/ownership opportunities
· Flexible work hours or part-time options
· Opportunities to meet with senior leadership
· Continuing medical education reimbursement
· Profit-sharing opportunities
· Ongoing mentoring
· Formal recognition for a job well done
· Opportunities for involvement in non-clinical committees or functions
· Ongoing employer contact with spouse and/or family
· Opportunities for non-clinical professional development
· Retention bonuses

An equally important issue for new hires is family involvement and spousal assistance. Often hiring a new physician means that a spouse will also need a new job. When recruiting, make an effort to facilitate the spouse’s transition, too. These strategies include engaging the spouse in the interview process, providing dedicated relocation assistance, providing spousal career assistance or professional networking opportunities and creating social events for the family.

Strong retention initiatives and clear expectations of job responsibilities can ultimately lengthen a new hire’s tenure and create an environment that will make future recruitment more successful.

*Source: The Cejka Search and AMGA 2006 Physician Retention Survey was completed by 92 members of the American Medical Group Association, and collectively employ more than 16,833 physicians.