Physicians who have served in the military can bring valuable experience to a medical practice, but their military background may also come with obligations and benefits that employers should understand.
In a recent article for Medical Economics, Steven Podnos, MD, CFP®, draws on his experience as both a physician and retired U.S. Air Force Reserve colonel to explain the differences between active-duty, Reserve, and National Guard service and what those distinctions can mean for physician employers. He also discusses military commitments, deployments, compensation, and retirement benefits that may affect physicians throughout their civilian careers.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the physician’s type of military service. Active-duty, Reserve, and National Guard service involve different commitments, and some physicians may have served in more than one capacity during their careers.
- Plan for ongoing military obligations. Physicians serving in the Reserve typically have recurring training requirements and may also be called upon for deployments, which practices should consider when planning for coverage and staffing.
- Recognize the importance of employer support. Practices employing Reserve physicians should understand and respect their military commitments, including time away from the practice for service.
- Military benefits can vary significantly. Retirement pensions, Tricare coverage, and other benefits depend on factors such as the type and length of a physician’s service.
Read Steven Podnos’ full article, What physician practices should know before hiring a military doctor, in Medical Economics.
