Boutique medicine or non-clinical medicine?

Some doctors may be contemplating some serious career changes because of worsening reimbursement problems. Many are converting their practice to a cash-only boutique or concierge style practice. Others are moonlighting or doing some cosmetic laser surgery.

What about a transition to a non-clinical career? Pharma and finance aren't the only options out there. Yet so many physicians find themselves limited because they don't recognize what types of opportunities exist.

There are some serious questions to first consider:

• Are you willing to take some risk?
• Do you have the financial luxury to be unemployed for a few months while you make the transition?
• What do you really enjoy doing in life?
• Do you like to learn new things?
• What do you think about the corporate world? Of business?

At the end of the day, you may realize that a non-clinical path is better than simply converting to boutique medicine. It's important to recognize your options and to do your due diligence. Research your options. Meet people working in non-clinical settings. Prioritize what's important in your life.

Finally, make sure that you're really willing to leave clinical medicine. It may get difficult to go back if you change your mind.