Choosing Work Hours as a Surgeon... is it Possible?

[DrChandy]

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I was just wondering about the following...

From my understanding, residency for general surgery lasts 5 years, and residents have little, if any control over the amount of hours he/she has to work in the hospital. However, when one completes his/her residency, there is more flexibility available to the individual in terms of being able to work as much as he/she would want to work, depending on the nature of the practice. I know that the amount of hours one works will vary widely depending on the type of practice (private vs. large group) and location, but would it really be feasible to work say 4 days out of the week as a general surgeon in a large hospital? I know a physician (non-surgeon) who worked three days out of the week because she chose to do so, and alloted the remainder of her time towards spending time with family. I'd like to work as much as I can, while still having the option of being able to spend time with my future spouse and to see my future kids grow. Do general surgeons have the option of being able to work for a chosen amount of hours, just as some physicians in other specialties do?

 

[Von Hohenheim]

I was just wondering about the following...

From my understanding, residency for general surgery lasts 5 years, and residents have little, if any control over the amount of hours he/she has to work in the hospital. However, when one completes his/her residency, there is more flexibility available to the individual in terms of being able to work as much as he/she would want to work, depending on the nature of the practice. I know that the amount of hours one works will vary widely depending on the type of practice (private vs. large group) and location, but would it really be feasible to work say 4 days out of the week as a general surgeon in a large hospital? I know a physician (non-surgeon) who worked three days out of the week because she chose to do so, and alloted the remainder of her time towards spending time with family. I'd like to work as much as I can, while still having the option of being able to spend time with my future spouse and to see my future kids grow. Do general surgeons have the option of being able to work for a chosen amount of hours, just as some physicians in other specialties do?

You're talking about after residency, I know. But if you're counting on 80 hours a week until then, think again. If you're looking for an easy life, surgery isn't for you. 😉

 

[surg]

The short answer is yes. This topic has been hashed over many times, so I suggest using the search function. Basically it boils down to: working fewer hours and more predictable hours tends to mean that you focus on less complicated surgeries and/or are willing to make less money.
But, yes. You can work 4 days a week if you want. I know at least a few breast surgeons only working 3.5 days/week.