Dr. SR is interviewing with a midsize practice. He does not know the practice well on a personal level, he has family in the area and is optimistic about the practice. Dr. SR has checked out the practice website and been in phone and email communication with the office manager. Leading up to the visit there have been limited interactions with the physicians in the practice, and he is looking forward to making a connection. The practice arranges for their secretary to pick up Dr. SR from the airport, which is about 30 minutes from the hotel. The practice secretary smokes in her car which is extremely uncomfortable for Dr. SR. The ride to the hotel is made more awkward because the secretary makes no effort to engage in conversation. Dr. SR is glad to get out of the car and the hotel is fantastic. One of the physicians picks him up from the hotel for dinner. During the car ride Dr. SR is told that two of the partners will not be at dinner because of work and family conflicts. The other three physicians in the group do come to dinner but one leaves early, and one arrives late. The dinner feels rushed and seems superficial. The interview the following day is slightly disorganized, and the two physicians who missed dinner only interact with Dr. SR through brief introductions. Although the practice makes a competitive offer, it is declined.
Diagnosis:
Poorly planned and executed physician recruitment site visit
Recommendations:
- Have a checklist for preparing for the site visit as well as during and after the site visit
- Ensure trusted personnel are involved at each step of the visit
- Review the site visit schedule with all providers and make sure everyone is available for important events
- It is not necessary for all providers to participate in every aspect of the site visit, but candidates prefer some quality time with each provider
- The details must be attended to carefully; small things often make the difference
- Organization is critical and gives candidates the sense they are a priority
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