Friday, May 30, 2008

Going Back to School

I seem to be meeting more clinicians who are going back to school to learn about business. The problem is that medical school really doesn't prepare you for the 'real world' often encountered in the healthcare industry. Furthermore, many clinicians who are interested in pursuing non-clinical careers are looking into part-time and online business school opportunities.

I love being a student. I'm a lifelong learner and I like to read and learn about new things. Maybe I'll enroll for some classes this fall if I can justify spending all that money for the coursework. Wouldn't it be great if you could take classes for FREE? Well, in some ways you can. There are many lectures that get posted online. Look on YouTube or do a Google search and you may find something very interesting.

For example, MIT offers FREE courses here:
http://ocw.mit.edu/OcwWeb/web/home/home/index.htm

Thursday, May 29, 2008

RFP


What's an RFP? If you've only been living in the clinical world, then you may not be familiar with this acronymn.


RFP = request for proposal


This common business acronymn is used when potential customers want proposals for specific projects. For instance, if a customer needs to find a vendor to provider certain services, this customer may send out several RFPs to various vendors and then select a vendor based on the proposal that gets submitted.


Want to learn more? Go here

Network on Ning: non-clinical opportunities and careers

I would like to invite clinicians and students who may be interested in various types of non-clinical careers and opportunities to join this FREE (but private) network:

http://nonclinical.ning.com/

This network is open to physicians, PAs, nurses, NPs, pharmacists, technicians, and students in the healthcare field. It's a great way to meet others and share ideas. Since the network is private, only members will be viewing your information and comments that get posted.

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

RSS

Have you heard of "RSS?" Depending on who you talk to, RSS can mean different things. For those of us who live in the Web 2.0 world, RSS means: Really Simple Syndication. Others may call it Rich Site Summary.

So what's the point? Well, if you want to stay up-to-date with news from different sources, one of the easiest way is to subscribe to different RSS 'feeds' and use an RSS reader or RSS 'aggregator' to know what's going on.

For example, I subscribe to different FDA RSS feeds so that I can stay current with recalls, press releases, and other important FDA news. How do I do it? Well, I subscribe to the RSS feeds that are listed here:

http://www.fda.gov/oc/rss/

Give it a try and join the RSS world! You can even subscribe to this blog by using an RSS reader.

Saturday, May 24, 2008

Networking with Physician Executives

If you wish to network with other physician executives, I suggest signing up for the ACPE online discussion board. Better yet, join the ACPE and network with others who may have similar backgrounds or interests. Meet medical directors, chiefs, chairs, department heads, CMOs, VPs, and other executives who work in various clinical and non-clinical settings.

Get Familiar with Technology

If you plan to pursue a non-clinical career, then make sure you're very familiar with technology. You'll be expected to use the computer very proficiently. E-mails will be constant. What's more - you'll probably be using a smartphone, Blackberry, or other type of mobile internet/e-mail device. Companies don't want to teach you how to use Microsoft Word, Excel, or PowerPoint.

If you don't consider yourself to be proficient, then take a class to get familiar with these programs. As a business executive, you'll be much more productive if you're familiar with keyboard shortcuts and other time-saving tricks. Take a look at Office Online to learn some simple tricks that may save you time in the office.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Get a FREE $15 Amazon Gift Certificate

If you're a physician, why don't you join Sermo?If you do, you'll get a FREE $15 Amazon gift certificate. No obligations! Just join and they'll send you the card for FREE.

Sermo is a FREE online community just for physicians. Click here to join for free

Job Post: Medical Director at Omnicare Clinical Research posted on 5/20/08


Here's a job post from LinkedIn


Medical Director at Omnicare Clinical Research

OMNICARE CLINICAL RESEARCH is a leading Phase I to IV contract research organization (CRO) serving the biopharmaceutical and medical device industries. With a global presence in more than 30 countries in Americas, Europe and Asia-Pacific we possess diverse therapeutic expertise and a comprehensive scope of clinical services. With our experience of more than 20 years and about 1.100 employees we are a dynamic team of professionals interested in expanding the business and keen to deliver a high quality product. No matter what the project, we have expertise in handling a wide range of studies from pediatrics to geriatrics.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

The Medical Director manages and takes responsibility for medical and scientific aspects of phase I-IV projects in his therapeutic area in OCR International and/or globally, in collaboration with a matrix-structured team of professionals including clinical operations, proposals, business and project management.
* To undertake feasibility work and formal feasibility studies, primarily in his therapeutic area (cardiology or oncology) but also in other therapeutic areas, as needed.
* To collaborate with Business Development in the preparation of proposals as well as attend Bid defense meetings when required.
* To assist in the preparation of clinical development plans in collaboration with Clinical Writers.
* To liaise with expert opinion in relevant therapeutic areas (primarily cardiology or oncology).
* To review clinical documentation (Protocol, Case Report Forms, Informed Consent, etc.) as required by Medical Writers.
* To communicate with investigators and site personnel as needed as a medical monitor.
* To review Serious Adverse Event Reports as required by the Safety Department.
* To conduct a medical review of patients’ safety and laboratory data.

KEY SKILLS

* Ability to work in a team, with sensitivity and diplomacy.
* Able to write clearly and present ideas in a logical fashion.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English. Other languages would be a plus.

TRAINING & EXPERIENCE

* A medical doctor (MD) board certified in internal medicine and with at least two to three years clinical experience in cardiology or oncology.
* Full registration as physician and basic clinical research experience preferred.
* Board certification or eligibility in cardiology or oncology would be an asset.
* Travel occasionally upon request.
* Must be familiar with the MS Office Tools (software).

Monday, May 19, 2008

Job Post: CME Medical Director - posted 5/19/08


Got another call from an executive recruiter today. They're looking for a CME Medical Director in the midwest. Sounds like this company is looking for a physician with some clinical experience who also understands the nuances of the CME world.

If anyone is interested, please contact me or leave a comment.

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Blogs Devoted to Non-Clinical Opportunities for Clinicians


There are a few blogs devoted to non-clinical opportunities for clinicians (physicians, pharmacists, nurses, PAs, NPs, technicians, PTs, OTs, and so on...)

First, allow me to promote my own blog:
Non-Clinical Careers and Opportunities for Physicians
http://www.nonclinicaljobs.com/

The Student Doctor Network (SDN) is another site:
http://www.studentdoctor.net/

Do you know of others? Please post a comment and share your knowledge.

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Leaving the Bedside: The Search for a Nonclinical Medical Career


In 1996, the AMA published "Leaving the Bedside: The Search for a Nonclinical Medical Career"

So much has changed since 1996. In many ways, I'm surprised that more books on this topic haven't popped up over the years. Several have, but not nearly as many as expected. Why hasn't the AMA updated this book? There should be a 2nd or even a 3rd edition by now.

Could you write a book on this topic? It's such a diverse topic because you can go in so many different non-clinical directions.


Comcast to Buy Plaxo


Looks like Comcast is getting ready to purchase Plaxo. This really goes to underscore the importance of social networking in today's Web 2.0 culture. LinkedIn, Plaxo, Naymz, and even Facebook are becoming so popular. It's a great way to get reconnected with old friends and colleagues. Plus, it's an easy and convenient way to network professionally.

So, who's going to buy LinkedIn?

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Have you been to Sermo lately?


So a lot of new things have recently been appearing on Sermo.

One of the newest feature is the "Jobs" tab. Look for new opportunities, jobs, career transitions, etc. You can even post a job if you're looking to hire people.

Take a look. Join Sermo now and take a look around.

Thursday, May 8, 2008

"Reasons Not To Become A Doctor" on Forbes

"Reasons Not To Become A Doctor" on Forbes

http://www.forbes.com/2008/05/05/physicians-training-prospects-lead-careers-cx_tw_0505doctors.html

A very interesting article that hits some major points about being a physician in modern times.

Here are some excerpts:

Within the next 15 years, the United States will experience a shortage of between 90,000 to 200,000 physicians, according to the recently published Will the Last Physician in America Please Turn Off the Lights: A Look at America's Looming Doctor Shortage...

But there are other significant reasons. They include the increasing costs of medical malpractice coverage, higher practice costs, lower insurance reimbursement rates and insurance-company restrictions resulting in less autonomy over how patients are cared for...


Insurance has become a loaded word. One-third of the country is insured by Medicare, and over the next nine years, the government program plans to cut payments to physicians by about 40%, while practice costs are projected to increase 20%, according to the American Medical Association. The first of those cuts will take place in July, when the reimbursement rate to doctors will drop by 10.6%. The next cut, of 5%, will occur in January...


Meanwhile, getting sued by a patient is a major concern. Of course, doctors who make fatal mistakes and who are unqualified should be held responsible. But there's evidence that the bulk of lawsuits brought are frivolous. Of all malpractice lawsuits brought to jury trial in 2004, the defendant won 91% of the time. Only 6% of all lawsuits go to trial; those that aren't thrown out are settled. Only 27% of all claims made against doctors result in money awarded to the plaintiff, according to Smarr, president of the trade association for medical malpractice companies...

To support that assertion, a 2007 survey by Merritt, Hawkins indicated that 57% of 1,175 doctors questioned would not recommend the field to their children...

You can read some interesting comments by going to the article itself.

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

Job Post: Senior Director, Medical Affairs posted on 5/7/08

An executive search firm is looking for a Senior Director, Medical Affairs position within a well known pharmaceutical company located in Northern NJ (company paid relocation). It is an exciting opportunity to join a growing company focused in the Oncology and Infectious Disease therapy areas.

SENIOR DIRECTOR MEDICAL AFFAIRS

SUMMARY:
Pharmaceutical company located in New Jersey (Company paid Relocation) is seeking a Sr. Director, Medical Affairs. Position will lead Medical Affairs activities supporting company products through developing and delivering innovative and integrated programs and activities in the specified indication. Provide essential support to and work closely with the business organization (Marketing, Marketing Research, Business Development and Licensing, sales) as well as Regulatory Affairs and Clinical Research groups. Develop and implement strategies and tactics to support products throughout their life cycle partnering with Development and commercial teams as appropriate fostering an optimal strategic and operational synergy between medi! cal affairs and the commercial organization. Ensuring that the Medical Affairs activities and programs are conducted within an optimal regulatory compliance framework


RESPONSIBILITIES:
-Develop research summaries, publications and presentations arising from studies and other initiatives.
-Serve as Medical expert for company products, providing relevant scientific insight and support, developing and substantiating claim support and providing oversight and medical sign off to all related product messages and copy.
-Coordinate with industry and professional bodies to support commercial, Scientific and regulatory objectives and maintaining proactive communication with colleagues in R&D, Legal and Marketing.
-Participate in tactical and strategic project teams; collaborate with the drug safety team to optimize Pharmacovigilance activities, including evaluation of reports on spontaneous and clinical adverse events and monitoring product labeling.
-Assist in the selection of outside experts and maintaining productive relationships with key opinion leaders in the areas relevant to the business.
-Key role as a consultant in the review of clinical research programs and final study reports for development projects as well as in clinical research programs needed for the support of existing products and claims.
-Provide involvement at an early stage in project planning and recommending the most appropriate medical input for project development plans, early opportunity assessments and preparation for meetings with Health Authority and submission.
-Seek out opportunities to introduce and expand position and influence in the health care environment through appropriate targeted activities with key customers and selective affiliations with key professional organizations.
-Facilitate adherence to ICH, Pharmacovigilance and GCP guidelines and writing and managing department SOP's.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
 PharmD or MD with 7+ years pharmaceutical industry experience within Drug Development, Clinical Research and or Regulatory Affairs.
 Minimum of 3 years Medical Affairs experience with demonstrated understanding of the integration of Medical affairs activities into the commercial environment.
 Therapeutic area knowledge within AIDS, Cancer, Nutrition and or Geriatric a plus.
 Knowledge of Regulatory guidelines, IND/NDA requirements, procedures and documents.
 Well-developed research, data analysis and summarization skills.
 Exceptional verbal and written communication skills and accomplished presentation/public speaking skills.
 Demonstrated project management and coordination ability.
 Strategic planning, leadership and management skills

Debra Pohl
President, Pharmaceutical Recruitment
Alternative Resources Company
(914)769-4700 ext. 118
dpohl@arcstaff.com
www.arcstaff.com

Job Post: CMO - posted 5/7/08

Cejka Search is seeking to fill a CMO position in a $1.3 billion system comprised of six hospitals, a tertiary care center and five affiliate hospitals in Northern Mississippi.

We are looking for an experienced physician executive who has exceptional interpersonal qualities. Additionally, a proven track record in a 350+ bed facility in the Southeast region would be a huge plus.

Feel free to pass along my contact information within your network.

Lee Ann Trelles
Cejka Search
Executive Search Division
800-678-7858
ltrelles@cejkasearch.com
800-678-7858
ltrelles@cejkasearch.com

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Director, Clinical Due Diligence - posted 5/6/2008

An executive search firm is looking to hire a a Director/Senior Director-Clinical Due Diligence position within a well known, expanding pharmaceutical company in Mid/Central NJ (full company relocation program). It is an exciting new opportunity that will provide a broad scope of responsibility and visibility within the organization.

Director, Clinical Due Diligence

SUMMARY:
Reports to the Chief Medical Officer, the Director of Clinical Due Diligence is charged with onsite and offsite review of clinical opportunities in collaboration with business development. Individual is intended to work with business teams in evaluating potential business deals from medical and clinical research perspective. Will be required to meet and counsel executive leadership.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
 Provides business development leadership team medical and clinical due diligence of candidate early development to post-marketed products
 Travel with team for due diligence of business licensing candidates
 Working knowledge of pharmacovigilance and risk management activities
 Participate in product development meetings
 Prepare/deliver presentations on medical perspective
 Evaluate in-license pharmaceutical candidates
 Assess qualitative and quantitative composition of in-vitro and in-vivo product performance
 Attend professional conferences and meetings

REQUIREMENTS:
 Understand clinical development of pharmaceutical drug products, modeling and population PK analyses
 Excellent interpersonal skills, self-motivation, and positive attitude
 Analytical skills as well as excellence in oral and written communications
 Ability to review business development projects
 Have experience in medical affairs and clinical research
 Ability to handle multiple issues on multiple projects simultaneously.
 Ability to maintain a high degree of independence with respect to decision making and problem solving
 Liaise with other departments/ divisions to ensure successful outcome in due diligence of projects
 Strong negotiating skills
 Must have ability to analyze and evaluate processes and procedures
 Previous experience in business development
 Clinical background with patient management
 Medical background in industry
 Primary care background

EDUCATION:
MD or DO ONLY
PREFERRED FIELD OF STUDY:
 3-5 years clinical/medical affairs experience in life science field, business development experience desired

Contact: Britt Kelley

bkelley@arcstaff.com



Sunday, May 4, 2008

DocCheck Faces


Want to experience an international version of Sermo? Then check out DocCheck Faces. Meet doctors from all over the world (but mainly Europe) who have registered on this website.

Wait a minute - DocCheck isn't just for doctors! They have nurses, students, pharmaceutical professionals, sales representatives, and various other medical professionals listed on the site. Want to network with such individuals? Thinking about an international career? Then check it out! The best part is that it's a FREE service, so don't delay.