When do I quit? need PD help

[Sage2]

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Hey all, first post...
I am just wondering: if I am sure I want to quit after intern year, when do I have to decide by? When do I have to tell the program director?

(I know, I know, this is a huge move and one I won't make until I am absolutely sure, and have spoken to a million wise people, and have something else to do that will make me much happier).

Any input appreciated.

 

[dragonfly99]

Hmmm...interesting question.
Will be interested to see what the PD's say.
I would definitely not say anything until you are 100% sure you are quitting, and have an exit strategy (and hopefully another job). The economy is probably going to suck for the next couple of years and it's not good to be unemployed. I would think 3-4 months notice for them would be enough that they would have time to look for and find another resident...they could do it quicker but it wouldn't be nice for them.

 

[nsap102]

Hey,
I agree with Dragonfly, don't quit (or even leak any word of quitting) until you're absolutely sure.

In terms of quitting you can actually quit whenever you want. Your contract will give you the terms of quitting (and penalties if you quit the "wrong" way).

In addition, your program should have a contract renewal meeting with the PD at some point. Usually around Feb/March that's a good opporunity

GL

 

[gutonc]

Once you have next year's plan in writing (or, preferably, stone), it's common courtesy to give your PD as much time as possible to fill the spot. Make sure you're clear that you want to complete the year and will work as hard as ever for the rest of the year. Be sure that you finish your intern year and go out there and get a state license ASAP afterward. Most states will let you be on inactive status which is much cheaper and it's WAAYYY easier to reactivate a license than it is to get a new one down the road if you decide to go back to medicine.

 

[Winged Scapula]

To answer the question:

The RRC requires that programs give you 120 days (used to be 90) before terminating or not renewing your contract. Here is the link: http://www.acgme.org/acWebsite/irc/irc_IRCpr07012007.pdf (see page 6)

It is expected that interns and residents have the same courtesy although legally you could walk out at any time without legal repercussions (ie, programs won't generally waste time and resources suing you for breach of contract). Burning bridges however is not recommended.

 

[mmm08]

I resigned from my residency in my intern year. It was a difficult choice but one that I am completely happy with. I was open with my PD about my unhappiness from the beginning. The program was supportive and did what they could to keep me, but ultimately they respected my decision to leave. Because I was honest with them from the beginning and resigned amicably, my PD is going to write my a LOR for future applications- I suggest that you keep them on your good side because you will need their support in the future...

 

[yeasterbunny]

My first thought in seeing the title of this thread was: "Dang, just a resident and having to deal with Parkinson's disease!"