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5 mo ago, I agreed to cover someone's maternity leave, meaning I would go from solid tumor clinic days to heme/BMT inpatient evenings. I think most people thought I was crazy (rightly) for agreeing to this, but what can I say? I like a challenge. Here is what I learned. 
(This may only be helpful for me, and that's ok! But perhaps it will be helpful to anyone considering a career change.)
- After 6 years of primarily focusing on solid tumors, relearning heme/BMT was like slowly learning how to walk again. As opposed to honing my solid tumor expertise, I spent more time filling in my knowledge gaps, which was humbling, but also kind of exciting.
- When you’ve been doing something for awhile you get used to having all of the answers, but when I went to heme/BMT, I did more listening than talking. This helped me to appreciate just how smart some of my colleagues are and how far they’ve come, especially previous residents.
- I think having a safe, supportive environment to do something like this is absolutely essential. I probably would have perished if I didn’t have a strong support network among my coworkers, especially working solo.
- One thing that I really missed about clinic was talking to patients, so I’m excited to get back to that.
On the flip side, I will miss the unique challenges of inpatient life as well as my new inpatient friends. Leaving will be bittersweet :(
On the flip side, I will miss the unique challenges of inpatient life as well as my new inpatient friends. Leaving will be bittersweet :(
In summary
A complete job title 180 is doable! If you’re willing to get uncomfortable
It’s totally natural to feel out of your depth in your new position for awhile
Smart, supportive colleagues are essential – appreciate them!
A complete job title 180 is doable! If you’re willing to get uncomfortable It’s totally natural to feel out of your depth in your new position for awhile Smart, supportive colleagues are essential – appreciate them!
