Most New Physicians Heavily Recruited

A new survey by physician staffing firm Merritt, Hawkins & Associates reports that 80 percent of physicians in their final year of training received more than 26 job solicitations and 40 percent received more than 50 solicitations.

The 2008 Survey of First Year Medical Residents included 290 medical residents in 20 medical specialties including oncology. The survey also asked new physicians the primary source they use to learn about practice opportunities. Although many still rely on recruiters and medical journals, 58 percent responded that the Internet is the most important source.

Perhaps the most alarming finding from the survey is that despite a market that favors new physicians, some new doctors are unhappy about their choice of profession. When asked if they would study medicine if they could do their education over again, 82 percent said they still would select medicine. But nearly one in five new physicians said they would select another field. "Many doctors are unhappy with how medicine is being regulated and reimbursed," said Mark Smith, president of Merritt Hawkins. "Even new doctors are not immune to disillusionment."

The survey also provides information on a downward trend in desire to practice in rural areas, as well as responses on when new physicians begin considering job prospects. A summary of the report is available from Merritt Hawkins & Associates.