We need to look at the big picture and figure out how to get away from the crushing of our profession. With the influx of CMGs, Kaisers, etc, there are few SDG's left. I personally have chosen to pursue financial independence as a way to avoid these groups and the general implosion of medicine. Within a decade of leaving training I have a paid off house in one of the ten most expensive counties in the US and no longer need to save for retirement, although I do have to support my ongoing expenses. I would suggest other physicians do the same. I currently have a great (but declining) job where I earn $220 an hour plus benefits (including a pension). I also see 1.5 pts per hour and don't have to sign PA charts. This will end in the not too distant future, I am sure. But I'm riding it as long as I can.
These CMGs are crooks, as are the hospital systems and the nursing unions. But the only way to vote is with our feet. I see so many docs with a fancy doctor house, new cars etc. It's not worth it. Now, despite the, implosion in medicine, I have complete freedom. I can quit. I can cherry pick locums. I can work for a VC company inventing widgets.
Pursue financial freedom, folks. It's the only way to be FREE, even if you continue to work.
