STEP 7: MANAGE THE RELOCATION PROCESS
Tips for a Smooth Transition to Your New Life and Practice
Relocating as a physician comes with unique logistical and emotional challenges. Between patient handoffs, licensing timelines, family coordination, and contract start dates, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But with the right plan in place, your move can be smooth, efficient, and even exciting.
Key Strategies for a Successful Relocation:
1. Build a Personalized Timeline Start with your contract start date and work backward. Include milestones like giving notice, packing, finalizing credentials, and travel dates. Break it down into 30-, 60-, and 90-day goals if possible. 2. Coordinate With Your Employer’s Relocation Team (if applicable) Ask if they offer relocation benefits, reimbursement, or a preferred vendor list for movers, temporary housing, or credentialing support. 3. Partner With Local Experts Lean on professionals who specialize in physician relocation. They’ll understand your time constraints and can help with:
Area orientation tours Temporary or permanent housing School and childcare research DMV, utility, and voter registration logistics
4. Involve the Family Early If relocating with a spouse or children, factor in their needs from the beginning—school enrollments, partner job searches, or even housing preferences. 5. Use a Centralized Checklist Keep all your key documents and to-do items in one place (you’ll find a printable relocation checklist on the next page!). Track progress weekly to reduce last-minute stress. 6. Stay Proactive About Medical Licensure & Credentialing Delays in these areas are common. Keep your paperwork organized, follow up consistently, and disclose all relevant information early. 7. Know When to Outsource Don’t try to do it all yourself. Hiring a relocation concierge or using a service like MD Match can save time, money, and energy—while ensuring your move is handled professionally.
Powered by FlippingBook