Practice Settings

As a family physician, you will have the flexibility to shape your career in order to take advantage of your knowledge and unique interest. In addition to patient care, we have many members also involved in research, public health, education and administrative roles! There are many practice setting options.  Here are some of the dynamics of each option for you to consider.  Make the right choice for you!

Solo Practice- Control and autonomy; Ability to set own schedule;  Significant administrative and managerial responsibilities; Responsibility for start-up and over head costs
Group Practice- Small Group/Multi-Specialty; Established patient base; Schedule/coverage flexibility; Partnership with other physicians; Potential income division conflicts; Assistance from other physicians in the office; Possible ownership opportunity
International Health- Opportunity to travel; Insight into other medical communities;  Unique experience; Contract-based and full-time positions.
State and Government Sponsored Practice- Unique experience; Broad scope of practice; Security or administrative rules may infringe on autonomy; Requirements to adhere to government policies and regulations.
HMO/Permanent Medical Group- Established patient case; In network/internal physician referrals; No overhead costs.
Academia- Opportunities to teach and/or mentor; Limited clinical responsibilities; Opportunity to mold new generation of family physicians; Flexibility with involvement in various projects
Another Option- Locum Tenens-  Fill a temporary opening in a hospital or practice- Unsure about your practice setting, gives you options to explore; Job assignments can range from a few days to several months; Benefit of checking out working arrangements beforehand. More information: AAFP’s list of Locum Tenens agencies or call (800) 274-2237, Ext. 4162