A growing trend is emerging in the medical field, with mid-stage physicians making significant changes in their careers, a move known as the physician pivot. This shift is largely driven by a desire for better work-life balance and flexibility, according to a recent American Medical Association study.
The study shows a shift in why physicians are leaving clinical practice early or not entering the field at all, citing burnout, chronic workplace stress, administrative burden, and unrealistic patient expectations.
Shifting Expectations
In medicine, a stable, long-term career is no longer a sure bet. With economic uncertainty, hospital budget pressures, and ongoing policy and reimbursement conversations, staying put doesn’t automatically feel “safer” anymore and for some physicians, flexibility has become a form of risk management. Many physicians are now less willing to quietly accept misalignment in their career just because it’s familiar.
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Evaluating Readiness for a Career Pivot
Making a career jump from permanent to part-time is not for everyone, nor an easy move. For physicians who are considering opportunities outside of full-time employment, they should be asking themselves direction questions such as: What do I actually want more or less of? What am I afraid of losing, and what might I gain? Is this an emotional response or logistical readiness? Are there ways I can resolve my current challenges in my current position? Can this be resolved by the same type of employment, but at a different location?
Heath Jolliff, DO, an Ohio-based clinical toxicologist shared his experience transitioning mid-career with the New England Journal of Medicine, saying, “There are plenty of opportunities for mid-career physicians seeking a change, but it’s important to engage in self-learning and to get some clarity before considering a shift. Keep in mind that you’re not stuck in a cage, and that your experience and skills are both valuable and needed.” Dr. Jolliff also advises physicians to identify what they find meaningful in their work, what they don’t like, and establish what their personal values are.
Physicians today have more options than ever for a career pivot, especially those who are more advanced in their careers.
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One option gaining popularity and increased credibility is locum tenens. Historically thought of as only a choice for physicians phasing into retirement, locums is becoming a trusted option for physicians opting out of the more traditional models of practicing medicine. More physicians are learning about it directly from colleagues, considering it as a practical and professional option as part of a long-term career journey rather than risky or fringe.
Unique to locums is the ability to try it out before fully committing to this career path. Hybrid models allow physicians to essentially test locums before leaving a full-time role, which can be a way to experience what it’s like without being committed out the gate. Some of these common hybrid paths include: Short-term assignments during PTO or sabbaticals for physicians who are able to pull away from full-time practice, even for short-term. Locums between roles can be an excellent way to research the ins and outs in between jobs. Periodic locums work alongside part-time employment can be helpful for those physicians who are already doing part-time work for a hospital or health system.
A Growing Career Path
In 2016, only 21% of physicians had ever worked locums but by 2025, that number had nearly doubled to 41%, largely through word-of-mouth recommendations from peers.
