Make Your Next Move a Smart One: A Surgeon’s Pre-Move Checklist
Finding the right plastic surgery opportunity is more than just reviewing salary numbers or production incentives. Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced surgeon considering a career move, relocating for a new practice requires careful planning. To help you navigate this transition smoothly, we’ve put together the ultimate candidate checklist—covering everything from professional considerations to lifestyle factors.
1. Evaluate the Practice Opportunity
Before committing to a move, make sure you have a complete understanding of the practice itself:
- Practice type: Is it private, group, or part of a hospital system?
- Patient base: Demographics, procedure volume, and referral patterns.
- Partnership/ownership track: If the practice offers a path to ownership, understand timelines and buy-in requirements.
- Reputation: Check online reviews, professional referrals, and local surgeon feedback.
2. Review Compensation and Benefits
Salary is just one piece of the puzzle. Look closely at:
- Base vs. production pay: Understand how incentives are calculated.
- Malpractice coverage: Who pays, what’s included, and tail coverage.
- Retirement and health benefits: Compare against your current plan.
- Relocation assistance: Some practices offer moving allowances or temporary housing.
3. Assess Workload and Expectations
It’s important to know exactly what the role demands:
- Surgery schedule: Number of OR days, clinic hours, and call responsibilities.
- Support staff: Quality of nurses, PAs, schedulers, and front-office staff.
- Administrative responsibilities: Marketing, EMR documentation, and billing obligations.
- Professional development: Opportunities for continuing education, mentorship, or research.
4. Research Licensing and Legal Requirements
Moving to a new state involves legal and administrative steps:
- State medical license: Timeline for application and requirements.
- DEA registration: For controlled substances, if applicable.
- Hospital privileges: Confirm your ability to perform procedures at affiliated hospitals.
- Contract review: Always have an attorney review agreements before signing.
5. Consider Lifestyle and Personal Factors
A move isn’t just professional—it’s personal:
- Cost of living: Housing, taxes, and daily expenses.
- Community fit: Schools, recreational activities, and social life.
- Family considerations: Spouse/partner career opportunities, proximity to relatives.
- Commute and transportation: Accessibility to work and local amenities.
6. Plan the Transition
A successful relocation is planned, not rushed:
- Timeline: Give yourself enough time for housing, licensing, and credentialing.
- Financial readiness: Budget for moving expenses, temporary lodging, and potential gaps in income.
- Patient continuity: If possible, coordinate referrals or handoffs from your previous practice.
- Networking: Connect with local surgeons, professional societies, and industry groups.
7. Ask the Right Questions
Before signing, make sure you ask:
- What is the expected patient growth in the first 12 months?
- How is the OR schedule allocated among surgeons?
- What support is available for marketing and patient acquisition?
- Are there any restrictive covenants or non-compete clauses?
Final Thoughts
Relocating for a new plastic surgery practice is a major career move—and preparation is key. By carefully evaluating the opportunity, understanding compensation, verifying legal requirements, and planning for lifestyle adjustments, you can make a move that sets you up for long-term success.
Your career is one of your most valuable assets. Taking the time to check every box on this candidate checklist will help ensure your next practice move is as smooth and rewarding as possible.
ESA Medical Resources (gotplasticsurgeryjobs.com) specializes in matching candiates with the perfect plastic surgery practice opportunity. Email our CEO David Smith david@gotplasticsurgeryjobs.com or call/text 270-266-1024 for a confidentical no obligation discussion.
