New research from Jackson Physician Search and MGMA shows early-career physicians face a median of 180 days between signing and starting. What healthcare organizations do in those months can either build excitement and a sense of belonging or create doubts that drive attrition. Foster physician loyalty from the beginning with this 180-day pre-boarding roadmap.
Pre-Boarding-for-Physician-Retention-180-Day-RoadmapAt Signing: Define the Path Forward
Host a welcome call with leadership and the recruiter (ownership clarified: who’s their go-to).
Send a custom pre-boarding roadmap so expectations are visible from the start.
Provide a checklist of credentialing, licensure, and relocation milestones.
120-Days Out: Keep Momentum with Meaningful Touchpoints
Send a credentialing/licensure update with clear timelines.
Provide a light-touch community primer (housing, schools, local physician networks).
Extend an invitation to shadow or virtually meet the clinic team (optional).
90-Days Out: Build Clarity and Confidence
Schedule a check-in with administrators and future mentor.
Walk through the compensation model in plain language, tied to a realistic ramp-up.
Share a draft schedule template with the ability to flag questions.
60-Days Out: Establish Belonging Through Relationships
Formalize the mentor + peer buddy assignment.
Send calendar invites for monthly mentor/buddy check-ins (protected time).
Send a short video intro from clinic staff/colleagues to build connection.
30-Days Out: Personalize the Final Countdown
Confirm relocation/logistics support (if applicable).
Send practical resources: call schedule overview, inbox policies, team norms.
Send a personalized message from partner physicians or team members.
Download our new report to learn more: From Contract to Connection: How Authentic Relationships Foster Early-Career Physician Loyalty and Retention
Reach out to a Jackson Physician Search recruitment expert today at jacksonphysiciansearch.com.
