When I ask residents and fellows what they are looking for while job searching, they invariably say, “I want a private practice that gives me the ability to do research and teach fellows and residents.” If I had a dollar every time I heard that answer, I would probably have retired already. While academically minded private practices do exist, it’s not the only way to practice retina—and for many, it may not be the perfect fit they thought it would be.
So, how do job seekers move beyond the academic world they grew comfortable with in training? Retina specialists practice in many different models—solo, private practice (retina and multispecialty), academic, hybrid academic/private practice—and each comes with its own laundry list of pros and cons. Complicating matters further is the fact that nearly a quarter of practices have sold to private equity.1
Even within these broad categories, every office has its own structure, and many blur the lines between the various practice models.
To better understand the intricacies of these approaches to practicing retina, this issue’s featured article, A Day in the Life: Retina Edition, offers a glimpse into the lives of retina specialists in various practices. The authors’ answers are enlightening, and I hope they help future clinicians find the right place for their skills and lifestyles. Surprisingly, many couched their answers with something along the lines of, “Our practice is unique because we…,” and you can fill in the blank: some private practices have research and fellowship programs, some group practices are run like mini solo practices, and some solo retina doctors have virtual assistants to ease the administrative burden—you name it. Many found what they were looking for in an unexpected practice model.
There was one constant, though: location, location, location. This real estate adage seems to hold true for retina fellows looking for their dream job. But rather than looking for a house close to shopping or highway access, retina fellows overwhelmingly look for a practice that is close to family and friends. It helps to improve work-life balance and is a must-have for those raising a family.
If you are already practicing retina your way, this issue includes other articles to help you improve your business acumen. If you have time for nothing else, check out this issue’s Coding Advisor, in which Joy Woodke, COE, OCS, OCSR, provides a look at coding concerns with the new geographic atrophy therapies.
Retina is a wonderfully dynamic specialty, and it has room for all types of clinicians. Figure out what interests you, and then keep an open mind about where you might find it; you might be surprised where you land.
1. Q3 2022 Healthcare Services Report. Pitchbook. November 14, 2022. Accessed October 19, 2023. pitchbook.com/news/reports/q3-2022-healthcare-services-report
