5) Workflow efficiency. The ability to multitask and be organized are great skills to have as a hospitalist. Hospitalist work often involves managing several things during a short time span (i.e., rounding, admitting, teaching, holding family conferences, answering pages, and running codes). Successfully completing these responsibilities involves patience, structure, and resourcefulness during the course of any given day.
6) Teaching and research skills. In academic hospital medicine programs, good teaching and research skills can be very desirable. Chief residency or assistant chief residency experience is a good sign of teaching experience. Participation in research projects will boost your chances when looking for an academic hospitalist job. In non-academic practices, the employer may not focus much on these skills. Nevertheless, it is of significant value when the practice also hires midlevel practitioners like nurse practitioners or physician’s assistants or is thinking about how to evaluate the effects of a new program or intervention.
7) Local ties and durability. In view of the significant demand for hospitalists, recruiting can be challenging for any program. Another important aspect an employer looks at is whether you have any local ties or other compelling reasons to stay in the area for a long time. If you do have some geographic attachments or other reasons to be in the area for an extended duration, it will make the program more receptive toward you. Also, obtaining or applying for state licensure will save significant time and put you ahead of the curve.
8) Board certification. Most programs require you to be board certified or eligible when hired. Many programs expect you to obtain board certification within one to two years of starting your job. The sooner this is accomplished the more beneficial for the applicant.
Other Considerations
The diversity of hospital medicine programs provides an array of opportunities to choose from. Broadly speaking, the practice type could be academic or community based. The choice would depend upon your interest and proficiency in teaching.
In terms of schedules offered, several models exist. Many hospitalist programs are increasingly becoming 24/7, and it may be expected that you work different shifts. Also look into the licensure requirements of the state where you want to practice and be prepared with the required documentation, as some states may take longer to issue the license.
Above all, always remember: As much as it is important for you to find a befitting job, it is similarly essential for hospital medicine programs to hire worthy and valuable physicians. TH
Dr. Asudani is assistant clinical professor of medicine and a hospitalist at Baystate Medical Center, Tufts School of Medicine. Dr. Gandla is program medical director, Cogent Healthcare, High Point Regional Health System.