Working in private practice as an anaesthetist offers many advantages, from greater autonomy to the potential for higher earnings. While some anaesthetists choose to work exclusively in the public healthcare system, many others opt for a mix of public and private practice, or even dedicate themselves entirely to the private sector. If you’re considering making the transition to or starting in private practice, or looking to increase your private work, this guide is designed to help you navigate the process successfully.
Starting Out: The Transition to Private Practice
Embarking on a career in the private hospital sector is a significant step, and it helps to be well-prepared. Before diving into the intricacies of finding work, take the time to understand the fundamentals of private practice.
This checklist will help ensure you’re ready. If you haven’t already, we strongly recommend you read that first, as it will walk you through the whole process. From getting your FANZCA certificate to applying for accreditation at hospitals. Every requirement for working in the private sector must be checked off that list before starting.
Once you have these basics in place, you’re ready to start looking for work in the private system. However, finding opportunities can be one of the most challenging aspects of the transition.
Finding Private Work: Overcoming the Challenges
Securing work in the private sector as an anaesthetist or intensivist often requires more than just clinical expertise. It’s about positioning yourself in the right networks and making yourself known to key decision-makers.
Networking
Networking is arguably the most critical strategy for securing and increasing your workload in private practice. While it may seem straightforward, effective networking goes beyond casual conversations.
Reconnect with Former Colleague
The relationships you developed during your training are invaluable – even as far back as medical school! Reach out to your former colleagues, especially those who are already established in the private sector and let them know what your plans are. They can provide references, introduce you to surgeons, and even recommend you for upcoming lists.
Build Relationships with Surgeons
Surgeons are often the gatekeepers of private work for anaesthetists. By developing strong professional relationships with surgeons, you increase the likelihood of being top-of-mind when they need an anaesthetist for their procedures.
Attend Professional Events
Conferences, seminars, and hospital meetings are excellent opportunities to meet other professionals in your field. Be proactive in introducing yourself and discussing your availability for private work. Develop a 30-second ‘elevator pitch‘. where you can give them the important pieces of information you want them to know.
Leveraging Technology: The Role of Listcover
Listcover can help facilitate your entry into the world of private practice! Listcover is an app designed to streamline the process of finding and covering surgical lists.
How Listcover Works
Listcover connects anaesthetists, surgical assistants, and surgeons across Australia, allowing them to request cover for and pick up lists effortlessly. By downloading the app and creating a profile, you can receive notifications about available lists in your area.
Maximising Opportunities
Make sure you fill in the biography section in your Listcover preferences. Allow notifications in your settings and keep a close eye out for them to ensure you don’t miss any opportunities to pick up additional work.
This is also a great platform to put a up a call out if you need a list covered!
Picking up another anaesthetist’s list will allow you to offer to cover more lists and help build your professional network that will in return increase your private work.
Proactive Engagement
Don’t wait for work to come to you. Reach out to other users on Listcover, offering your services for upcoming lists. This proactive approach can set you apart and lead to more consistent work in the private sector. When you’re starting, it’s important to take whatever opportunities are available to you, rather than be overly selective, to help you demonstrate your skills and build your network.
Building a Thriving Private Practice
Transitioning to private practice as an anaesthetist can be both rewarding and challenging. By focusing on networking, leveraging digital tools like Listcover, and staying proactive, you can steadily increase your workload and build a successful career in the private sector.
If you need further details on how to start your journey into the private sector, please reach out to our friendly team at Solo Practice Management who can help guide you.