Taking a risk and loving it! |
Issue 12 June 2011 |
I have found the pace in the small towns to be much more appealing than most traditional urban/suburban practice opportunities. I actually have time to spend with patients and don’t have to worry about seeing a certain number of them to satisfy overhead or other financial concerns. My initial trepidation regarding ER coverage and being the only provider in a given town was soon alleviated. I quickly realized each town and facility had excellent resources in place to provide for proper evaluation and treatment, as well as prompt transfers and referrals when needed.
I appreciated being able to leave at the end of the week, knowing that my patients were in good hands with the next member of our team. I could go home to my other interests and not take work home with me or worry about a pager.
I found the fulfillment level to be high, knowing that the service I was providing was truly needed in these communities. The more I reflected on my dream job -- setting up an urban/suburban practice -- I realized I wouldn’t be providing services to people who were most in need. While I knew that I would likely enjoy that work, I had found a very fulfilling option through DWC.
At the end of my first year with the organization, that original dream job I mentioned was once again offered to me. I turned it down, having come to the realization that I was actually already working my dream job.
Looking Forward
I know my life will continue to evolve as the years go by. My needs and desires will change in ways I can’t yet fathom. Just six years ago I would have never predicted that I would spend my first five years in private practice working with DWC. But I have, and I’ve loved it.
I’ve thought about these questions because people continue to ask me when I’m going to start a traditional practice. I then have to gently explain to them that, not only do I like my job, I think it’s the best job in the world. That’s kind of tough to give up.
Andy Bukaty, D.O.
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