In the Literature
Bewsey-Dyke L. Returning to work. Part 1: making the transition back into the clinical workforce. In Pract. 2024;46(7):390-392. doi:10.1002/inpr.445
The Research …
Veterinary professionals at any level may take a break from clinical practice, including for parental or family care, exploration of nonclinical roles, travel, or sabbatical.
This article explores methods of approaching and preparing for the transition back to clinical practice following a break and presents strategies for successful re-entry that benefit the returning individual and the team. Although the benefits and challenges of returning to practice are unique to each person, common benefits include performing meaningful work, being part of a team, and financial compensation. Common challenges include rebuilding confidence and competence and juggling multiple roles and responsibilities, all of which can be affected by length of time away from clinical practice, past roles and responsibilities, level of experience prior to taking a break, and individual personalities.
Managing personal and professional expectations, setting boundaries, communicating needs and desires, and promoting skills acquired during the break are important when preparing to return to the clinic. A solid support system, reviewing government policies and programs and seeking additional resources for employees, and reconnecting with one’s professional network can also be significant.
Setting target achievements that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-limited (ie, SMART) may be useful for establishing 3-, 6-, and 12-month goals. Goals can be clinically focused or pertain to meeting the challenges of returning to work.
How to Navigate Potential Job Opportunities
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… The Takeaways
Key pearls to put into practice:
When returning to clinical practice, planning for benefits and challenges should start early, including reflection on what fulfilling practice means and how that may affect personal and professional opportunities. Consideration should also be given to potential difficulties and related resources.
Personal and professional values should be clarified to help set goals and expectations, identify boundaries, and highlight individual skills and strengths. Individuals returning to work should understand what they need to feel supported and valued in the workplace.
Understanding workers’ rights and resources (available through government policies and programs) is important. Online communities and refresher courses for those returning to work can also provide support.
Patience, understanding, and open and ongoing communication can help ease the transition for all involved (including the veterinary team) and create a healthy work environment.
Clinician's Brief colleague Katie Berlin, DVM, joins Alyssa Watson, DVM, and Beth Molleson, DVM, in the Veterinary Breakroom to share her experience of re-entering clinical practice after a 2-year hiatus. If you’ve ever considered a break from clinical medicine and wondered what it would feel like to jump back in, listen as Dr. Berlin shares the good, the bad, and the ugly of re-entry.
You are reading 2-Minute Takeaways, a research summary resource proudly presented by Clinician’s Brief. Clinician’s Brief does not conduct primary research.