Just wondering if someone can tell me about going into academia vs private practice after med school/residency. Interested in an academic position, but unsure about the process, the lifestyle, the compensation, etc. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks.
Academic Positions in Medicine
- Thread starter RL2000
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As a rule, physicians in academia take home less than their private practice colleagues. At the same time physicians in something like a faculty practice don't need to worry about the business aspects of running a practice, and rely on the university medical structure to supply them with patients.
As far as lifestyle is concerned, I think private practice physicians probably enjoy more free time. Those in academia are usually clinicians and researchers and teachers all on the same day, so just imagine how much of your free time is gonna be eaten up by your extracurricular activities.
The process of getting an academic position is the same as anything else in life -- apply for it. You'll likely get it if your CV can reflect a career geared towards the academy (doing an academic residency as opposed to a community program, doing research as a resident, etc.).
Good luck. See you on the faculty.
Tim of New York City.
As far as lifestyle is concerned, I think private practice physicians probably enjoy more free time. Those in academia are usually clinicians and researchers and teachers all on the same day, so just imagine how much of your free time is gonna be eaten up by your extracurricular activities.
The process of getting an academic position is the same as anything else in life -- apply for it. You'll likely get it if your CV can reflect a career geared towards the academy (doing an academic residency as opposed to a community program, doing research as a resident, etc.).
Good luck. See you on the faculty.
Tim of New York City.
