Starting a new job can be an exciting and anxiety provoking time for any medical professional. Each job is different and requires that you adapt to new people, policies and practice styles. It is important to set yourself up for success in your new job by correctly preparing for the position. Next time you transition to a new job consider following these helpful tips to ensure a smooth transition:
Clarify Employer Expectations
It's a fact that your new employer has expectations regarding your future performance and behavior. In order to set yourself up for success it is essential to clearly understand what these expectations are. Before you start your first day ensure that you are on the same page by clarifying their expectations regarding:
Job Performance:
How many patients a day are they expecting you to see? What are their policies regarding double bookings and work in patients? Will you be working in a highly autonomous setting? If so, will there be a Provider readily available for consultation. Do you have to finish your charting in the clinic before heading home each day?
Ask About Your Predecessor:
Employers frequently base their expectations on prior experiences with Advanced Practitioners (AP) that have worked there before you. Be sure to ask about any former APs and why they are no longer employed there. This line of questioning often yields a lot of insight into the employer's expectations and their views of an APs role in their organization. It can also help you understand what practices seem to work and which don't in the clinic. Most people are generally open to discussing this topic and are frequently happy to let you speak with any current or former APs.
Administration issues:
Be sure to understand scheduling, time off, CME reimbursements, clinic coverage and taking call policies. You don't want to start the job and not be clear about what you are getting into especially regarding call and clinic coverage for colleagues.
Think About Shadowing
A day of job shadowing can provide valuable insights into how an operation runs. Shadowing also allows you an opportunity to focus on observing the clinic without the added distractions of juggling a new EMR, meeting staff and making clinical decisions. You can observe clinic work flows, staff personalities and identify possible problem areas. This knowledge will help make your first day go smoother and sets you up for better relationships with your new colleagues and staff.
Do a Legal Checkup
Check to see if you need tail coverage on your former jobs liability insurance when you leave. Some liability insurances do not include tail coverage and this could leave you open to litigation on claims initiated after you leave the job. Also, check your state's licensing requirements regarding any necessary relationship terminations of old supervisors or registrations of new supervising providers.