Making the Most of Your Time After Fellowship

With a little planning, you can make the most of the time between completing Fellowship and starting your first job.

Many graduating Fellows are surprised to learn that there is often a waiting period just after training and before jumping into work.

Credentialing for allergy/immunology physicians coming out of fellowship cannot begin until training is complete (usually July 1) and may be contingent upon the receipt of Board results. That means new Fellows will likely not be able to start full-time positions as allergists until the fall. Besides studying for and taking board exams, there are other activities that can fit nicely into this transitional time.

Board Prep

After the brief relief of completing Fellowship, there is still the specter of board examinations for most new allergists. Since exams are usually scheduled in September or October, post-Fellowship months are a great opportunity to hit the books without the added pressure of clinical rotations.

Job Search

Though most practices know there are more new allergists entering the job market in the fall, they are likely hiring year-round. It’s never too late to reach out to practices in the area(s) in which you’d like to live and work. If you are already in negotiations or under contract, make sure you are on track to be credentialed by your start date by staying in close contact with your new employer.

Temporary Employment

You may be able to find temporary work as a locum tenens physician while you’re waiting for board certification and eventual credentialing with a new employer. If you are under contract (or soon to be), be sure to disclose your intention to work as a fill-in physician. Your new employer might have non-compete restrictions that must be observed.

Relocation

If moving to another city or state is part of your plan, the time between training and starting a new position can be an opportunity to work out the details of that major transition.

• Tour different neighborhoods in your new city and find housing
• Check out schools, daycare or other resources for your family
• Explore employment for a spouse or partner

Maybe most importantly, take some time to recognize and appreciate the commitment and time that you’ve invested in your career. Completing Fellowship may feel like something is ending, but it’s really just the beginning.