This article discusses what to do if you are
being laid off / terminated from a pathologist position. It was contributed by
a pathologist in the Southern U.S. who wants to remain anonymous. The views expressed
are those of the author, and not necessarily of www.PathologyOutlines.com
(Editor’s note)
Transitioning
Helping yourself:
- Apply for unemployment compensation.
- Be professional! Don't "burn bridges". Any
new employer is very likely to communicate with your former employer.
Leave in such a way…if possible…that all "loose ends" are tied
up. Finish cases; notify, where rules require, of your change in status;
resign from any hospital staff if you are supposed to.
- Self Assessment: Is anything about your qualifications
(think of them being presented in a courtroom) which need repair or
bolstering?
- Personality and interpersonal relationships: Although
pathologists are thought of as introverted, some practices relate quite
strongly with clinical physicians and community leaders and may require a
more extroverted talent. Are you self-aware as to relational factors; do
you need any coaching or work in this area?
- Goals: Was there any mismatch between your concept of a
pathology career and that of your former employer? Were you more
dedicated or less dedicated than employer leaders?
- "Troubledwith" website at www.troubledwith.com: See the column titled
"transitions" and the subheading underneath it, "changing
jobs" (or click here).
Helping you (Professional
Outplacement Services):
- Professional outplacement services.
- Attorney (to help you with any type of employment
separation agreement) and CPA/Accountant.
- The departing group's practice management consultant,
group manager, or group administrative assistant can likely be a great
help to you; be sure to get permission from the group for such help.
- Secretary to the Medical Staff: the person supplying this
function in any hospitals with which you had privileges can be a help when
subsequent letters of reference are requested.
Possible job sources:
1. Practicing
pathology (as employee or **independent contractor):
- Full or part-time, long or short term, opportunities
within a daily commute: check with any local and state pathology
societies or other local pathology groups.
- Consider governmental health department labs.
- Full or part-time opportunities, USA…see "placement
agencies", below.
- Locum tenens opportunities (Google search "locum
tenens" or "placement agencies").
- Teaching: Consider teaching possibilities with local or
other medical schools.
- Fellowships: Consider obtaining a fellowship position in
some area of pathology while you consider your alternatives and revamp
yourself.
- Placement agencies:
5. Non-laboratory
jobs:
- With insurance companies
- With law firms
- With government agencies
- With Internet websites
- Non-specifically checking job listings:
** Independent contractors
hold forth solicitation for business for more than one client, perform in an
independent fashion, and must assure their own tax and other withholdings,
business expenses, etc.
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