The Transition to Independent Practice: A Challenging Time Requiring Careful Balance

The transition to independent medical practice can be stressful and at times overwhelming with the various career development aspects to consider at the end of residency or fellowship. This period requires the integration and consolidation of medical skills as well as the ability to take on new nonclinical roles involving financial and personnel management. Given the complexity and skill-set requirements of successful transition to independent practice, diverse nonmedical professionals with valuable expertise are available to assist in this period. Maintaining a humanistic approach is crucial in the process of completing residency or fellowship. Furthermore, this is an important process to practice building leading to successful physician-patient relationships, as well as physician satisfaction and wellness.