With relocation on the horizon, you should build a detailed timeline that ties credentialing, licensure, contract deadlines, and moving logistics to realistic dates so your clinical work and patient care suffer minimal interruption.
You must research relocation firms thoroughly by checking physician-specific experience, client references, and written service guarantees. Ask for examples of placements in your specialty, verifying the firm’s handling of license transfers, hospital privileges, and DEA registration in the destination state.
You should review every clause of the relocation and employment agreement with a healthcare attorney. Look for repayment clauses tied to signing bonuses, moving stipends, or loan repayment, and confirm tax treatment of relocation payments. Request clear statements about who pays for temporary housing, movers, and real estate fees.
You need to confirm malpractice coverage during the move and at your new position. Request written proof of tail and occurrence coverage options, understand retroactive coverage dates, and resolve gaps before you stop practicing at your old location.
You should manage licensing and credentialing early by initiating state medical board applications, DEA registration, and hospital privilege packets simultaneously. Use parallel tracks for primary source verifications, hospital references, and board certifications to shorten credentialing timelines.
You must create a patient transition plan that includes notification letters, transfer of records, referral agreements, and follow-up pathways for complex cases. Inform patients and referring physicians promptly, and set clear handoff responsibilities so continuity of care remains intact.
You should evaluate community factors that affect you and your family, including schools, spouse employment prospects, commute times, and neighborhood safety. Request relocation service help with school tours, local agent introductions, and community orientation when available.
You need to keep meticulous documentation of all relocation-related expenses, contracts, and communications. Store receipts and written agreements for tax reporting and potential disputes, and schedule regular check-ins with the relocation coordinator until final settlement.
You should plan a contingency for delays or changes in start dates, such as temporary locum coverage or telemedicine options. Set milestones for decision points so you can act quickly if credentialing stalls or housing falls through.
You must treat relocation as a project: set priorities, assign responsibilities, and track progress. Doing so protects your career continuity, preserves patient trust, and helps you establish a successful clinical practice in the new location.
