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Physician Job Search &amp; Career Advancement Resource

PracticeLink

Physician Jobs | Healthcare Careers | PracticeLink

When preparing for a job interview, physicians often prioritize crafting great responses to questions about their clinical expertise, accomplishments and training. Equally critical but frequently overlooked is developing thoughtful questions related to onboarding, retention and how the move might support your life outside of medicine.



Initiating these conversations can reveal how a potential employer regards physician success, long-term satisfaction and personal well-being, and whether red flags may be hiding behind polished recruitment efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why these questions matter</h2>



1. Assess cultural fit Workplace culture is the foundation of your day-to-day professional experience. Asking about organizational values, team dynamics and communication norms gives you insight into whether you’ll thrive in the environment. This helps avoid mismatches that often lead to early turnover or burnout.



2. Clarify expectations Misaligned expectations are a top reason physicians leave new roles. Asking about clinical duties, call schedules and evaluation criteria allows you to decide whether the position aligns with your goals and whether you’re stepping into a clearly defined and supported role.



3. Ensure a strong start Effective onboarding is more than a welcome packet. It’s a structured, guided process that supports integration into clinical teams, workflows and systems. Asking about mentorship, EMR training, billing guidance and clinical shadowing helps you gauge how invested the organization is in helping you succeed from day one.



4. Understand retention strategies A strong retention plan means more than a competitive salary. It means leadership is focused on wellness, development and career advancement. Ask about why physicians stay—or leave. Their answers will tell you whether you’re walking into a high-turnover environment or a supportive, sustainable one.



5. Evaluate community fit for you and your family Your job is only one part of your life. If you’re relocating, be sure to ask questions about the local community, schools, housing, spouse employment support and lifestyle opportunities. A great professional fit can still lead to dissatisfaction if the personal or family side of the transition falls short.



6. Protect your career longevity Choosing the right opportunity upfront—and ensuring it’s built to last—means fewer disruptions and greater satisfaction over time.



An investment in your future starts with the questions you ask today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Practical questions to ask in interviews</h2>



Onboarding and early success



-What does the onboarding process look like for new physicians? -Will I be assigned clinical or academic mentors? How are they assigned? How often will we meet? -What does the first week entail? What does the first month typically entail? -What kind of support is in place for building my practice or patient panel?



Workflow, systems and access



-What training is offered for EMR, billing, or coding? -Who are my referral partners and care team collaborators? -Where do I go for questions about workflow or scheduling? -Who will be setting my productivity and performance goals? What are the typical expectations for new providers?



Growth and retention



-What opportunities exist for leadership or professional development? -What are the most common reasons physicians choose to stay—or leave—this organization? -How does leadership respond to physician feedback or concerns? -What programs support work-life balance and wellness?



Practical logistics and community fit



-What can I do in advance to help my onboarding go smoothly? -Who is my go-to contact for onboarding support? -What resources are available to help my family get settled in the area? -Can I speak with someone about local school options, neighborhoods, and spouse/partner employment resources? -How does the organization help support physicians with community integration?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to Use the Answers</h2>



It’s not just what you ask, but how your questions are received.



Pay attention to whether leadership answers with enthusiasm and clarity, or whether they dodge the topic. Transparency, preparedness and genuine engagement are strong positive indicators. Vague or dismissive responses may signal a lack of investment in the physician experience.



Take notes, reflect on what you’ve learned, and follow up as needed. Speaking with current physicians can also provide helpful context to what is said—or left unsaid—in interviews.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Final Thoughts</h2>



Your next role should not just meet your clinical interests, it should support your success, your growth, and the well-being of your family, both professionally and personally. By asking onboarding and retention questions, you take control of your career, align yourself with the right organization, and invest in a fulfilling, sustainable future.



About the Author Donna Ecclestone, CPRP, is the owner of&nbsp;<a href="https://ecclestoneonboarding.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ecclestone Onboarding and Integration</a>, a consulting firm specializing in provider onboarding and retention. With 25 years at Duke, she led recruitment and founded Duke’s Provider Integration team, earning Joint Commission recognition in 2016. A national expert and speaker, she co-developed AAPPR’s onboarding certificate program and has helped organizations build or enhance onboarding strategies. Donna is a past AAPPR Board Member, Education Chair, and Volunteer of the Year Award recipient.&nbsp;



Contact Donna at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ecclestoneonboarding@gmail.com">ecclestoneonboarding@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ecclestoneonboarding.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ecclestoneonboarding.com</a>.

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Donna Ecclestone

Why Physicians Should Ask Onboarding and Retention Questions During Job Interviews (1)

Why physicians should ask about onboarding and retention during the job interview

<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Hosted by Christy Bray</h2>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-left">Episode Sixteen: Redefining Provider Onboarding with Donna Ecclestone</h2>



<iframe title="Workforce Wisdom: The Future of Healthcare Talent Podcast Episode 16" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=irwjy-18f3ba6-pb&#038;from=pb6admin&#038;share=0&#038;download=0&#038;rtl=1&#038;fonts=Arial&#038;skin=f6f6f6&#038;font-color=auto&#038;logo_link=none&#038;btn-skin=3267a3" loading="lazy"></iframe>



For this sixteenth episode of PracticeLink Media Network&#8217;s &#8220;Workforce Wisdom: The Future of Healthcare Talent&#8221; podcast, host Christy Bray welcomes Donna Ecclestone, owner of <a href="https://www.ecclestoneonboarding.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ecclestone Onboarding</a>.



Together Christy and Donna discuss the common mistakes in onboarding, what drives retention and the importance of both culture and mentorship.



Click the “Podcast Apps” icon in the above media player (top right, next to the download icon) to listen to the podcast on your choice of major streaming platform.



For more information, visit <a href="http://www.practicelink.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PracticeLink.com</a> or email <a href="mailto:PLMedia@PracticeLink.com">PLMedia@PracticeLink.com</a>.



ABOUT THE WORKFORCE WISDOM PODCAST



This ongoing series, hosted by veteran healthcare recruitment specialist Christy Bray, focuses on the latest trends in the healthcare recruitment industry and showcases innovative strategies, success stories and fresh perspectives in healthcare recruitment. These episodes, released every Thursday, consist of Christy leading an in-depth, thoughtful discussion with a recognized industry-leading healthcare professional exploring the challenges of healthcare recruitment and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned recruiter or just starting out, this podcast will help you discover how the experts are reshaping the industry, leveraging technology and fostering inclusive hiring practices.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Donna-grey.png" alt="" class="wp-image-41703" srcset="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Donna-grey.png 1024w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Donna-grey-300x300.png 300w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Donna-grey-150x150.png 150w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Donna-grey-768x768.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



DONNA ECCLESTONE, TODAY&#8217;S PODCAST GUEST



Donna Ecclestone, CPRP, is a recognized leader in physician and APP onboarding and retention, with over 25 years of experience in healthcare recruitment. She spent 12 years in medical staff recruitment before launching and leading Duke Health’s Provider Integration program for 13 years, earning Joint Commission recognition in 2016. Donna co-developed AAPPR’s Onboarding and Retention Certificate Program and played a key role in shaping industry standards. As the founder of <a href="https://www.practicelink.com/resource-center/strategicpartners/ecclestone-onboarding/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ecclestone Onboarding</a>, she helps healthcare organizations build, refine, and modernize onboarding programs to enhance provider retention and engagement. Donna also serves as an Advisory Board Member for Intuitive Search Partners and holds a bachelor’s in marketing from Slippery Rock University. She is known for her strategic, results-driven approach and is dedicated to improving workforce integration and lifecycle management.



ABOUT THE HOST



Christy Bray currently serves as the Chief Strategy Officer for PracticeLink, a leading platform in healthcare recruitment. Christy has extensive experience in the healthcare industry, including VP of Provider Talent at Ardent Health Services, AVP of Provider Recruitment at Lifepoint Health and Physician Recruiter and Senior Consultant at Banner Health. She is skilled in provider relations, team building, process improvement, staffing solutions and previously served in several committee roles for the Association for Advancing Physician and Provider Recruitment (AAPPR).

podcast logo 1600×900 For Resource Center

Workforce Wisdom: The Future of Healthcare Talent Podcast

It takes guts to pursue a field you know nothing about, to leave one’s homeland in search of a dream and to dare claim a future as a physician in a country where you don’t have any family and don’t speak the language. The phrase, &#8220;it takes guts,&#8221; comes from the idea that courage and bravery flow from deep within, and suggests that facing challenges requires strength and fearlessness. Among the recipients of PracticeLink’s Spring 2025 First Practice Fund scholarship, there is none that exemplifies these qualities more than future Gastroenterologist, Dr. Alejandro Nieto Dominguez.



Dr. Nieto Dominguez’s standout entry for First Practice Fund described a cohesive story of service, research impact and clear future goals, all with a voice that reflects passion backed by action.



From volunteering at a hospital as a teenager in Panama, to medical training and ultimately, research-backed GI care in the U.S., his narrative is engaging, concise. His entry reveals a level of professionalism that shows humility, emotional intelligence and leadership maturity — learning from feedback, advocating for patients and mentoring peers.



PracticeLink:&nbsp;Why did you enter medicine?&nbsp;



Dr. Alejandro Nieto Dominguez:&nbsp;Before I knew the vocabulary of medicine, I knew two things about myself: I like untangling hard problems and I feel compelled to make that effort count for my community. Those instincts crystallized during high school summers at Hospital Santo Tomas, Panama’s main public hospital, where I volunteered at community health fairs. Dozens of people arrived after traveling hours by bus: patients whose first screening showed blood pressure in the urgency range, farmers with lesions highly likely to be skin cancer, and laborers whose edematous legs betrayed an undiagnosed course of heart failure. Each story shared the same arc—care sought too late because the public system’s bottlenecks kept early help out of reach. Watching preventable diseases advance so far convinced me that knowledge alone is not enough; expertise must be joined by advocacy and structural change.



Santo Tomás Hospital is in Panama City; edematous is swelling due to fluid trapped in the body&#8217;s tissues.



That conviction guided my path north. I chose training in the United States to learn not only the science of medicine but also how leaders turn bedside questions into studies that reshape practice. Internal medicine residency at Cook County Health—Chicago’s largest safety-net hospital—let me pair rigorous teaching with a mission that mirrors Santo Tomas. Daily encounters with barriers, such as how the absence of transportation caused a patient to repeatedly fail bowel preparation for colonoscopy and then getting diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer due to delays in their workup, or failure of a patient to adhere to a low FODMAPS diet due to the costs pushed me to ask how social conditions steer gastrointestinal outcomes.



FODMAPs are&nbsp; short-chain carbohydrates (certain types of sugar, starch and fiber) some people&nbsp; can’t digest and/or absorb well.



I began noticing more and more of these and decided to start formal research while in residency.



This summer, I begin my Gastroenterology fellowship at Saint Louis University, an institution recognized for serving St. Louis’s underserved communities. The setting will sharpen my procedural skills while expanding the social-determinants research I started during residency.  My goal is clear: to become an academic physician who advances evidence-based therapies and builds delivery systems that ensure those advances reach the people who need them most.



PL:&nbsp;How have you demonstrated professionalism in your medical training?



Dr. NIETO DOMINGUEZ: Early in my intern year, my professionalism was tested more than at any other time: learning medicine in a new language and culture meant almost every day brought feedback on my ward presentations, medical documentation and—even as I grew into a senior—my teaching style. Instead of hearing criticism, I treated those comments as a syllabus and revised each skill until it met the team’s needs. That same posture guides how I care for patients. When insurance hurdles threaten to interrupt a heart-failure medication or an anticoagulant, I give patients my cell so they can alert me before a dose is missed, then stay on the phone with the pharmacist or insurer until their prescription is released. And when a situation exceeds my depth, I call the attending; when delays endanger a patient, I escalate through the chain of command without blaming anyone, keeping the focus on a solution. Accepting feedback, staying reachable and knowing when to ask for—or offer—help have carried me from that steep intern year learning curve to a senior resident who now mentors others through the same challenges.



PL:&nbsp;How have you built and utilized strong interpersonal and communication skills in your training?



DR. NIETO DOMINGUEZ:&nbsp;I’ve learned that clear, respectful communication is something you practice, not something you “have.”



During my palliative-care rotation, I often helped families face heartbreaking choices about life support. In one case, a patient’s daughter struggled with the thought of “disconnecting” her father. I slowed the conversation, asked what her father valued when he was well and helped frame the decision around honoring those wishes. The family chose comfort-focused care, and later thanked us for giving them the space to reach that decision together.



On the wards, I hone my craft by volunteering for morning-report presentations and asking colleagues to pick apart my reasoning. Their feedback—everything from how I sequence data to the words I use with interns—has made my teaching clearer and my plans tighter.



I bring the same mindset to research. Presenting our work at Digestive Disease Week and the American College of Gastroenterology forced me to turn dense analyses into a three-minute story and handle rapid-fire questions from senior investigators. Whether I’m talking with a family, a care team or a national audience, the goal is the same: ensure everyone leaves the conversation knowing exactly what we’re doing and why.



PL:&nbsp;What are your career goals and how will the First Practice Fund help you achieve them?



DR. NIETO DOMINGUEZ:&nbsp;I plan to build a career as an academic gastroenterologist who studies how social and economic barriers shape digestive-disease outcomes and then turns those findings into practical fixes. Right now, I am finishing two projects that speak directly to that mission: an observational study showing how malnutrition worsens outcomes in hospitalized patients with gastroparesis, and a points-based social-risk score we are piloting in inflammatory bowel disease clinics to spot patients who would have worse outcomes based on their social determinants of health. Both studies are on track for future presentations at major GI conferences and future journal submission for publication.



Support from the First Practice Fund would let me take the next step—getting these results into the hands of clinicians and researchers who can use them. The scholarship would offset publication fees, poster preparation and travel for conference presentations, turning completed projects into shared knowledge and helping me lay the groundwork for a research program focused on equitable GI care.

2025 FPF Winner Blog Post A_Dominguez

Meet Dr. Alejandro Nieto Dominguez, Recipient of a First Practice Fund scholarship

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hosted by Charley Lowry</h2>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Episode Seven with guest Jim Hemphill</h2>



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For this seventh episode of the &#8220;Surviving &amp; Thriving in Residency&#8221; podcast, host Charley Lowry welcomes Jim Hemphill, founder and partner of&nbsp;<a href="https://tgsfinancial.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TGS Financial Advisors</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.triagemd.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Triage MD</a>.



Together they discuss managing financial stress for physicians, the best ways to save and invest, managing students loans, and much, much more!



Click the “Podcast Apps” icon in the above media player (top right, next to the download icon) to listen to the podcast on your choice of major streaming platform.



For more information, visit <a href="http://www.practicelink.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PracticeLink.com</a> or email <a href="mailto:PLMedia@PracticeLink.com">PLMedia@PracticeLink.com</a>.



ABOUT THE SURVIVING &amp; THRIVING IN RESIDENCY PODCAST



This ongoing series, hosted by PracticeLink Director of Graduate Medical Education (GME) Outreach Director Charley Lowry, focuses on the journey to become a physician &#8212; from med school through residency and fellowship. These episodes, released weekly, consist of Charley leading a thoughtful discussion with healthcare professionals who share tips and insightful information from their own medical journey to inform and provide priceless guidance for the next generation of prospective healers. Medical students, residents and fellows can all benefit from the candid conversations, which are often based on questions and topics directly supplied by those who are in the early steps of their healthcare careers.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/JimHemphillPhoto.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-41666" srcset="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/JimHemphillPhoto.jpeg 1024w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/JimHemphillPhoto-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/JimHemphillPhoto-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/JimHemphillPhoto-768x768.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



JIM HEMPHILL, TODAY’S PODCAST GUEST



Jim Hemphill is a founder and partner of TGS Financial Advisors and Triage MD. Jim finds his purpose in supporting the hard work and good financial habits of his clients and in helping them achieve the positive outcomes they deserve. He engages his clients with a data-driven approach, a focus on tangible goals, and robust progress measurement. Jim specializes in retirement transition and complex wealth transfer strategies. As Chief Investment Strategist, Jim developed the Dynamic Contrarian Portfolio Strategy, the asset allocation methodology at the core of TGS’s investment process. He coordinates ongoing research initiatives and recommends changes to the firm’s investment committee. Jim spearheads TriageMD, which offers both financial advice programs and educational platforms for physicians at all stages of their careers. He delivers workshops that complement his books Pay Yourself First: A Financial Guide for Doctors Entering Practice and Changing Outcomes: A Financial Recovery Strategy for Peak-Career Physicians. Jim is committed to continually building his expertise as a financial advisor. In 2016, he received his Certified Private Wealth Analyst designation from the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business, and in 2000 he earned his Certified Investment Management Analyst designation from the Wharton School of Business. Jim has been a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional since 1982.



ABOUT THE HOST



Charles (Charley) Lowry currently serves as the Director of Graduate Medical Education (GME) Outreach for PracticeLink. Before PracticeLink, in his role as Statewide Campus Director, Charley worked directly with medical students and residents at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. In his current role, Charley provides all the necessary tools and resources for residents/fellows to be successful in finding their first practice after residency. He frequently collaborates with residency directors and coordinators across the country to provide free PracticeLink resources to their programs including webinars, CV reviews and in-person presentations of&nbsp;First Practice: The Resident and Fellow Career Guide. &nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="977" src="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-4-1024x977.png" alt="" class="wp-image-41667" srcset="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-4-1024x977.png 1024w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-4-300x286.png 300w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-4-768x733.png 768w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-4-1536x1466.png 1536w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-4.png 1584w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>

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Surviving & Thriving in Residency Podcast

<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Hosted by Christy Bray</h2>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Episode Fifteen: Unlocking Leadership Potential in Healthcare with Allison McCarthy</h2>



<iframe title="Workforce Wisdom: The Future of Healthcare Talent Podcast Episode 15" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ajcvf-18e91f8-pb&#038;from=pb6admin&#038;share=0&#038;download=0&#038;rtl=1&#038;fonts=Arial&#038;skin=f6f6f6&#038;font-color=auto&#038;logo_link=none&#038;btn-skin=3267a3" loading="lazy"></iframe>



For this fifteenth episode of PracticeLink Media Network&#8217;s &#8220;Workforce Wisdom: The Future of Healthcare Talent&#8221; podcast, host Christy Bray welcomes leadership coach Allison McCarthy. 



Together Christy and Allison discuss mastering communication in a professional setting, the importance and role of emotional intelligence in healthcare, and much, much more!



Click the “Podcast Apps” icon in the above media player (top right, next to the download icon) to listen to the podcast on your choice of major streaming platform.



For more information, visit <a href="http://www.practicelink.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PracticeLink.com</a> or email <a href="mailto:PLMedia@PracticeLink.com">PLMedia@PracticeLink.com</a>.



ABOUT THE WORKFORCE WISDOM PODCAST



This ongoing series, hosted by veteran healthcare recruitment specialist Christy Bray, focuses on the latest trends in the healthcare recruitment industry and showcases innovative strategies, success stories and fresh perspectives in healthcare recruitment. These episodes, released every Thursday, consist of Christy leading an in-depth, thoughtful discussion with a recognized industry-leading healthcare professional exploring the challenges of healthcare recruitment and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned recruiter or just starting out, this podcast will help you discover how the experts are reshaping the industry, leveraging technology and fostering inclusive hiring practices.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Allison-McCarthy-Photo-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-41659" srcset="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Allison-McCarthy-Photo-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Allison-McCarthy-Photo-300x200.jpg 300w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Allison-McCarthy-Photo-768x512.jpg 768w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Allison-McCarthy-Photo-1536x1024.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



ALLISON McCARTHY, TODAY&#8217;S PODCAST GUEST



Allison McCarthy is an ICF Credentialed Coach, a natural extension of her successful career that spans executive roles in major organizations and as an entrepreneur and principal of a successful consulting firm she co-founded.&nbsp;She created and served as Principal of Barlow/McCarthy for nearly 20 years, leading consulting engagements in areas of strategic growth for hospitals and health systems. Her clients include C-suite executives, vice presidents, and directors.



ABOUT THE HOST



Christy Bray currently serves as the Chief Strategy Officer for PracticeLink, a leading platform in healthcare recruitment. Christy has extensive experience in the healthcare industry, including VP of Provider Talent at Ardent Health Services, AVP of Provider Recruitment at Lifepoint Health and Physician Recruiter and Senior Consultant at Banner Health. She is skilled in provider relations, team building, process improvement, staffing solutions and previously served in several committee roles for the Association for Advancing Physician and Provider Recruitment (AAPPR).

If the number of people you’ve made happy, so they say, is greater than the number of people you’ve made unhappy, you’ve done well as a person. As a massage therapist specializing in pain management, Jill Wenger did her best to bring joy to her patients by helping to alleviate their suffering. Some patients, however, had neurodegenerative diseases, for which a massage was able to do very little. What if she could surpass her own limits and take patient care to the next level? How many people could she make happy then?&nbsp;



In Jill Wenger’s winning entry for PracticeLink’s Spring 2025 First Practice Fund scholarship, the wife and mother of two described the concern she felt for patients with complex diagnoses and her path toward becoming a Physician Associate. First Practice Fund is a competitive $2,500 scholarship open to aspiring medical professionals training in the U.S.



The motivation behind Jill’s goal is emotionally rich, highly personal and supported by real patient interactions. Her entry uniquely portrays a journey driven by hands-on experience, empathy and professional growth.



PracticeLink:&nbsp;Why did you enter medicine?&nbsp;



Jill Wenger:&nbsp;As a massage therapist, one of the first questions I always asked was, ‘What brings you in today?’ One gentleman, who went on to become a regular patient, answered: “I have numbness on one side of my body. It starts at my midback. I can’t feel anything. I’m hoping massage will help. What do you think?” He stared at me, his green eyes full of hope.



“Have you been to a doctor?” I asked with concern.



“Just my chiropractor, and he recommended massage,” he responded.



My patient, we’ll call him Brian for privacy reasons, and I discussed the plan of care established with his chiropractor, a provider I had worked closely with on several occasions. As Brian described his symptoms, I realized I had heard similar descriptions from another patient, we’ll call Sally. Brian’s one-sided numbness was the exact symptom Sally had with her first Multiple Sclerosis exacerbation. Unfortunately, I could not tell Brian that since my scope of practice as a massage therapist did not allow for medical treatment or advice.



As our weekly sessions continued with little improvement, I urged Brian to seek medical care. He wanted to know why I was so insistent, and I told him honestly: “I think something is going on that I can&#8217;t fix. I think you need to have some tests run.”



Brian eventually found a health care provider and was diagnosed with a rare disease called sarcoidosis, but it presented as transverse myelitis, mimicking Multiple Sclerosis.



I had been working as a massage therapist for ten years by the time I had my first Multiple Sclerosis client, Sally, and within a few weeks I had been referred four more with the same condition. I was fascinated by each of their treatments; they were all on different medications. I wanted to study the disease to verify I was treating them all correctly, so I spent my free time researching their medications, side effects and prognoses. I learned so much about MS that I became fascinated with the progression of this neurodegenerative<a> </a>disease. I contemplated going back to school but was torn with the idea of missing my patients and giving up everything I had worked so hard to build. Unbeknownst to me, my journey to PA school had already started in 2008 when I was 18 and decided to forego traditional college for Massage Therapy school. By age 20, I had opened my own business and worked almost exclusively with pain management cases. Unfortunately, the type of care I was able to provide as a massage therapist was limited. I knew becoming a Physician Associate would allow me to help patients even more, granting me a larger scope of practice and more tools at my disposal.



Working with patients like Sally and Brian was pivotal in giving me the push I needed to further my education. I thought massage would be my lifelong career, but my constant curiosity and desire to learn more took over, and I was, once again, pursuing higher education. I knew I wanted to help more effectively, to have more knowledge, and to increase my scope of practice. I researched area schools, talked to my husband and two small children and began my journey to Physician Associate school by completing the remainder of my prerequisites in January 2019. Even with a busy family life and a full-time job, I was dedicated to my education. I was eventually accepted to The University of Tampa, and we moved from Kansas City, Missouri to Tampa, Florida.



Now in PA school, I am determined to do well, never missing class. I am helpful to my peers, and always in the front row, ready to learn. I tutored chemistry professionally for a semester before the pandemic, and I take the lessons I learned there to hold study sessions for my colleagues in every class, even over Zoom.



Helping patients I take care of is more than about just feeling good in the moment. I want my patients to live their best lives and to thrive physically. I want to be a Physician Associate to expand my scope of practice, work with other healthcare professionals to provide patient-centered care, develop and implement care plans, educate patients and their families, perform medical and surgical procedures, and provide disease prevention and health maintenance to patients. The twelve years of patient care experience I already had as a massage therapist provided the tools I need to maintain professionalism, compassion and integrity, treat every patient without prejudice, show sensitivity to gender, culture, age and disabilities, and maintain confidentiality related to patient information. My journey to becoming a Physician Associate has been challenging but rewarding, and I cannot wait to start my career in this amazing profession.



PL:&nbsp;How have you demonstrated professionalism in your medical training?



JW: Part of being in the medical field is ensuring you are a polished professional. I maintain my professionalism every day, because I think that even during school, it is important to practice professionalism. I always arrive on time and ready to learn, ensuring I have the tools and supplies needed for the day. I keep a calendar of important events and I send reminders to classmates helping us all be prepared for big projects, tests, and important due dates. I have a positive attitude even when things are stressful outside of school because everyone works better when the environment is kind and friendly. I dress professionally every single day, with the philosophy of &#8220;dress for the job you want.&#8221; I encourage others frequently. I listen when people have grievances, and work to find solutions that make both parties happy. I am kind and professional to people even when we aren&#8217;t friends, because everyone deserves a safe and friendly work and school environment. If someone gives me negative feedback, I sit with it, take time to be introspective about what they said, and meet back with them about changes I can make to be a better professional. I am very passionate about the Physician Associate profession, and want to be someone others can look to for inspiration on professionalism.



PL:&nbsp;How have you built and utilized strong interpersonal and communication skills in your training?



JW:&nbsp;The entire medical profession is about having good communication skills. We must communicate with other medical professionals, hospital staff, patients and families. A Physician Associate who cannot communicate effectively to any one of those groups is not going to be the best PA they can be. I work on my communication skills in a myriad of ways. Most prominently by starting Group Chats and Teams folders for class, having my family ask questions at home and volunteering to present cases for consults. First, I worked extensively on creating Class Group Chats to keep different groups informed. For instance, during my Internal Medicine clinical rotation, I added everyone on IM rotation to a group chat, where we sent articles, study guides, and due date reminders for projects. When I finished the IM rotation, I put all the information I had amassed into a Teams folder so the next group of IM students had access to the same information. People then began to make their own Teams folders, which now includes a huge amount of great information for my classmates and I to utilize.



Secondly, I extensively practiced explaining things to patients and their families in layman&#8217;s terms, often asking my family to give me pop-quizzes. For example, my kids asked me to explain strep throat, my husband asked me to explain cerumen impaction and my parents asked me to explain the Shingles Vaccine. If they think I am getting too medical with terminology, they stop me, and we try again. This practice has helped me so much when patients have questions.



Finally, I asked every preceptor I’ve had so far if I can have a chance to give the oral case presentation to the doctors we are consulting. This gives me a perfect opportunity to practice pertinent positive and negatives to a medical professional much more specialized than I am. It’s also very intimidating as a student, so I have pushed myself to practice this. I think communication skills are one of the most important skills we have as medical providers. It helps us explain things to patients and their families, keeps us informed inter-professionally, and allows us to consult with other medical professionals, allowing for the best care for our patients.



PL:&nbsp;What are your career goals and how will the First Practice Fund help you achieve them?



JW:&nbsp;I would love to work in a rural emergency room as a Physician Associate. There are so many under-served people in our nation that have a difficult time getting good healthcare. When I was in high school, the closest hospital was over an hour away, and the closest trauma center was even farther. I knew people who “stitched themselves up at home” because they didn’t have access to quality care. I want to be someone those small communities trust to see when their son&#8217;s leg is broken under the Friday Night Lights, when their dad cuts his hand and can&#8217;t get it to stop bleeding, or when their young teenage friend is in a car accident and needs to be evaluated. I want to be the face that people can trust, and I want them to be cared for in a way that doesn&#8217;t give prejudice to their circumstances. Getting this scholarship will help me achieve these goals because it will help me pay for classes, books, and applications that will help me in Emergency Medicine field. It will allow me to study more and have more free time to research new techniques. It will also allow me to pay to join different groups like SEMPA &#8211; the Society of Emergency Medicine PAs, AAPA (American Association of Physician Associates), and FAPA (Florida Association of Physician Associates) which are essential for networking. I appreciate your consideration for this scholarship. If you choose me, it will help me and my family be able to afford the last two semesters of PA school, and allow me to join these important networking associations, eventually allowing me to follow my dreams of helping those in rural communities.

Jill Wenger, Recipient of a First Practice Fund scholarship

2025 FPF Winner Blog Post J_Wenger

Meet Jill Wenger, Recipient of a First Practice Fund scholarship

<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Hosted by Charley Lowry</h2>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Episode Six with guest Luke Jokerst</h2>



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For this sixth episode of the &#8220;Surviving &amp; Thriving in Residency&#8221; podcast, host Charley Lowry welcomes Army Medical Recruiting Officer, Captain Luke&nbsp;Jokerst.



Together they discuss the benefits of a career as a medical professional with the United States Army Medical Department, his experiences as a medical recruiter for the United States Army, and much, much more!



Click the “Podcast Apps” icon in the above media player (top right, next to the download icon) to listen to the podcast on your choice of major streaming platform.



For more information, visit <a href="http://www.practicelink.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PracticeLink.com</a> or email <a href="mailto:PLMedia@PracticeLink.com">PLMedia@PracticeLink.com</a>.



ABOUT THE SURVIVING &amp; THRIVING IN RESIDENCY PODCAST



This ongoing series, hosted by PracticeLink Director of Graduate Medical Education (GME) Outreach Director Charley Lowry, focuses on the journey to become a physician &#8212; from med school through residency and fellowship. These episodes, released weekly, consist of Charley leading a thoughtful discussion with healthcare professionals who share tips and insightful information from their own medical journey to inform and provide priceless guidance for the next generation of prospective healers. Medical students, residents and fellows can all benefit from the candid conversations, which are often based on questions and topics directly supplied by those who are in the early steps of their healthcare careers.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="800" height="800" src="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CaptJokerstPhoto.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-41653" style="width:840px;height:auto" srcset="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CaptJokerstPhoto.jpeg 800w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CaptJokerstPhoto-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CaptJokerstPhoto-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/CaptJokerstPhoto-768x768.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



CAPTAIN LUKE JOKERST,&nbsp;TODAY&#8217;S PODCAST GUEST



Luke Jokerst is an Army Medical Recruiting Officer who works with Saint Louis area schools and hospitals to link health care professionals with the scholarships, programs, and bonuses the United States Army Medical Department has to offer. He aspires to put the best medical professionals in the United States Army to serve the men and women who fight to protect our nation.



ABOUT THE HOST



Charles (Charley) Lowry currently serves as the Director of Graduate Medical Education (GME) Outreach for PracticeLink. Before PracticeLink, in his role as Statewide Campus Director, Charley worked directly with medical students and residents at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. In his current role, Charley provides all the necessary tools and resources for residents/fellows to be successful in finding their first practice after residency. He frequently collaborates with residency directors and coordinators across the country to provide free PracticeLink resources to their programs including webinars, CV reviews and in-person presentations of&nbsp;First Practice: The Resident and Fellow Career Guide. &nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="977" src="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-3-1024x977.png" alt="" class="wp-image-41654" srcset="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-3-1024x977.png 1024w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-3-300x286.png 300w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-3-768x733.png 768w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-3-1536x1466.png 1536w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-3.png 1584w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The views and opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the U.S. Army, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government. Participation in this podcast does not constitute or imply endorsement by the U.S. Army.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Hosted by Christy Bray</h2>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Episode Fourteen: Healthcare Leadership, Innovation, and Evolution with Tom Farrington</h2>



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For this fourteenth episode of PracticeLink Media Network&#8217;s &#8220;Workforce Wisdom: The Future of Healthcare Talent&#8221; podcast, host Christy Bray welcomes Tom Farrington of Tom Farrington Consultancy, LLC.



Together Christy and Tom discuss the importance of networking, joining professional organizations, AI trends in recruitment, and much, much more!



Click the “Podcast Apps” icon in the above media player (top right, next to the download icon) to listen to the podcast on your choice of major streaming platform.



For more information, visit <a href="http://www.practicelink.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PracticeLink.com</a> or email <a href="mailto:PLMedia@PracticeLink.com">PLMedia@PracticeLink.com</a>.







ABOUT THE WORKFORCE WISDOM PODCAST



This ongoing series, hosted by veteran healthcare recruitment specialist Christy Bray, focuses on the latest trends in the healthcare recruitment industry and showcases innovative strategies, success stories and fresh perspectives in healthcare recruitment. These episodes, released every Thursday, consist of Christy leading an in-depth, thoughtful discussion with a recognized industry-leading healthcare professional exploring the challenges of healthcare recruitment and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned recruiter or just starting out, this podcast will help you discover how the experts are reshaping the industry, leveraging technology and fostering inclusive hiring practices.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="330" height="220" src="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/TomFarrington.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-41523" srcset="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/TomFarrington.jpg 330w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/TomFarrington-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 330px) 100vw, 330px" /></figure>



TOM FARRINGTON, TODAY&#8217;S PODCAST GUEST



Tom Farrington is owner and president of Tom Farrington Consultancy, LLC and a retired Physician Recruitment Leader. He is certified, and has served as faculty, for the CPRP Certification Course &#8211; Association for Advancing Physician and Provider Recruitment (AAPPR). Tom is passionate about effectiveness in communication and building strong partnerships!



ABOUT THE HOST



Christy Bray currently serves as the Chief Strategy Officer for PracticeLink, a leading platform in healthcare recruitment. Christy has extensive experience in the healthcare industry, including VP of Provider Talent at Ardent Health Services, AVP of Provider Recruitment at Lifepoint Health and Physician Recruiter and Senior Consultant at Banner Health. She is skilled in provider relations, team building, process improvement, staffing solutions and previously served in several committee roles for the Association for Advancing Physician and Provider Recruitment (AAPPR).

Achievement has long stood as one of the most powerful motivators driving personal growth, innovation and excellence. For medical trainees, the dream of becoming a physician fuels years of rigorous education and hands-on training—a journey powered not just by intellect, but by the deep desire to achieve something meaningful. Energized by the growing success of our Graduate Medical Education (GME) Relations outreach, PracticeLink sought to recognize that spirit of accomplishment by expanding its impact and support to even more aspiring physicians.&nbsp;



The inaugural First Practice Fund, our $2,500 scholarship series, was launched&nbsp;&nbsp;on Doctors’ Day 2025. News spread thanks to our close relationships with physician recruiters, GME faculty, residents and medical schools. As a result, in less than two months, hundreds of passionate trainees submitted outstanding applications, each one driven not only by the promise of a $2,500 reward, but also the opportunity to gain national peer and industry recognition.&nbsp;



In alphabetical order, the recipients of PracticeLink’s Spring 2025 First Practice Fund are:



-Primary Care physician,&nbsp;Bryan Bui, DO



-Gastroenterologist, <a href="https://www.practicelink.com/resource-center/physician-first-practice/meet-dr-alejandro-nieto-dominguez-recipient-of-a-first-practice-fund-scholarship/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alejandro Nieto Dominguez, MD</a>



-Hospitalist,&nbsp;Sarah Eichinger, DO



-Medical student,&nbsp;Margaret Giggey



-Internist,&nbsp;Dilpreet Singh, MD



-Advanced Practice Provider,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.practicelink.com/resource-center/physician-first-practice/meet-jill-wenger-recipient-of-a-first-practice-fund-scholarship/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jill Wenger, PA</a>



In the coming weeks, we will post articles in our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.practicelink.com/resource-center/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Resource Center</a>&nbsp;sharing their compelling journeys. Collectively, the series will make you smile, dare you to keep dry eyed and pull you into six diligent, heart-warming pursuits of long-standing dreams.



You’ll meet Dr. Eichinger, whose commitment to underserved communities motivated her to split her residency between two hospitals; and Miss Giggy, currently in medical school, who decided to be a doctor in the seventh grade after watching a program about a neonatal intern helping an infant after a traumatic birth.



You will read how Dr. Wenger’s desire to learn more about neurodegenerative diseases to better assist her patients inspired her to walk away from a thriving business as a massage therapist to now training to be a physician associate.



With every submission to First Practice Fund, our panel of judges were in awe of each medical trainee’s pursuit of achievement, patient care and improved healthcare. Each revealed a clear, fundamentally selfless drive that propels them forward.&nbsp;



Achievement doesn’t just move individuals—it mobilizes entire communities toward something greater. We at PracticeLink are grateful to everyone who applied and congratulate the six recipients. We look forward to more stories of extraordinary dedication and individual journeys toward remarkable goals.

FPF Recipients Blog FNL

PracticeLink Announces Inaugural First Practice Fund Scholarship Recipients

<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Hosted by Charley Lowry</h2>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Episode Five with guest Karan Singh</h2>



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For this fifth episode of the &#8220;Surviving &amp; Thriving in Residency&#8221; podcast, host Charley Lowry welcomes Karan Singh, a first year integrated vascular and interventional radiology resident (VIR).



Together they discuss Karan&#8217;s journey from studying abroad to adjusting to his current life in St. Louis, in addition to his interest in academic medicine and the importance of support systems.



Click the “Podcast Apps” icon in the above media player (top right, next to the download icon) to listen to the podcast on your choice of major streaming platform.



For more information, visit <a href="http://www.practicelink.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PracticeLink.com</a> or email <a href="mailto:PLMedia@PracticeLink.com">PLMedia@PracticeLink.com</a>.



ABOUT THE SURVIVING &amp; THRIVING IN RESIDENCY PODCAST



This ongoing series, hosted by PracticeLink Director of Graduate Medical Education (GME) Outreach Director Charley Lowry, focuses on the journey to become a physician &#8212; from med school through residency and fellowship. These episodes, released weekly, consist of Charley leading a thoughtful discussion with healthcare professionals who share tips and insightful information from their own medical journey to inform and provide priceless guidance for the next generation of prospective healers. Medical students, residents and fellows can all benefit from the candid conversations, which are often based on questions and topics directly supplied by those who are in the early steps of their healthcare careers.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="651" height="698" src="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Resized-image.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-41494" srcset="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Resized-image.jpg 651w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Resized-image-280x300.jpg 280w" sizes="(max-width: 651px) 100vw, 651px" /></figure>



KARAN SINGH, TODAY&#8217;S PODCAST GUEST



Dr. Karan Singh is a first year integrated vascular and interventional radiology resident (VIR) at Saint Louis University Hospital. He previously did his training in Internal Medicine at the University of South Alabama and later transitioned into VIR.&nbsp;He grew up in Ontario, Canada and earned his MD degree from Avalon University School of Medicine in Curacao, where he also served as an academic counselor and educator, helping over 150 students prepare for their shelf exams and USMLEs. On his spare time he is actively providing educational content and coaching medical students in their medical school journey on social media. Some of his hobbies include bodybuilding, pickleball, and traveling. His passion to help others is derived from his own struggles as an international medical graduate (IMG) navigating through the American healthcare system.&nbsp;



ABOUT THE HOST



Charles (Charley) Lowry currently serves as the Director of Graduate Medical Education (GME) Outreach for PracticeLink. Before PracticeLink, in his role as Statewide Campus Director, Charley worked directly with medical students and residents at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. In his current role, Charley provides all the necessary tools and resources for residents/fellows to be successful in finding their first practice after residency. He frequently collaborates with residency directors and coordinators across the country to provide free PracticeLink resources to their programs including webinars, CV reviews and in-person presentations of&nbsp;First Practice: The Resident and Fellow Career Guide. &nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="977" src="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-2-1024x977.png" alt="" class="wp-image-41495" srcset="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-2-1024x977.png 1024w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-2-300x286.png 300w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-2-768x733.png 768w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-2-1536x1466.png 1536w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cl-final-2.png 1584w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>

S_T POdcast Artwork 1600×900 copy

<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Hosted by Christy Bray</h2>



Episode Thirteen, Part II: Scaling Success: Operational Leadership and Entrepreneurship with JB Hensley



<iframe title="Workforce Wisdom: The Future of Healthcare Talent Podcast Episode 13, Part II" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=3br3k-18d1b18-pb&#038;from=pb6admin&#038;share=1&#038;download=1&#038;rtl=0&#038;fonts=Arial&#038;skin=1&#038;font-color=auto&#038;logo_link=episode_page&#038;btn-skin=3267a3" loading="lazy"></iframe>



For part two of this thirteenth episode of PracticeLink Media Network&#8217;s &#8220;Workforce Wisdom: The Future of Healthcare Talent&#8221; podcast, host Christy Bray continues her conversation with JB Hensley, Chief Strategy Officer at Royal Surgical Associates



Together Christy and JB discuss employee retention, rise of alternative work models and the strategic use of locum tenens.



Click the “Podcast Apps” icon in the above media player (top right, next to the download icon) to listen to the podcast on your choice of major streaming platform.



For more information, visit <a href="http://www.practicelink.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PracticeLink.com</a> or email <a href="mailto:PLMedia@PracticeLink.com">PLMedia@PracticeLink.com</a>.



ABOUT THE WORKFORCE WISDOM PODCAST



This ongoing series, hosted by veteran healthcare recruitment specialist Christy Bray, focuses on the latest trends in the healthcare recruitment industry and showcases innovative strategies, success stories and fresh perspectives in healthcare recruitment. These episodes, released every Thursday, consist of Christy leading an in-depth, thoughtful discussion with a recognized industry-leading healthcare professional exploring the challenges of healthcare recruitment and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned recruiter or just starting out, this podcast will help you discover how the experts are reshaping the industry, leveraging technology and fostering inclusive hiring practices.



 <img decoding="async" src="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/JB-Photo.jpeg" alt=""> 



JB HENSLEY, TODAY&#8217;S PODCAST GUEST JB Hensley serves as Chief Strategy Officer for Royal Surgical Associates and has over 12 years of experience as a senior hospital administrator. With experience in allocating resources and developing strategies for growth and profitability for large organizations, his financial skills and insight into hospital operations help position RSA for maximal growth. As an administrator for large provider organizations and a hospital-owned health plan, JB has led enterprise-wide negotiations for several verticals, including physician contracts, health plan network participation, vendor agreements with device companies, pharmaceutical companies, and capital equipment purchases. Additionally, JB worked closely with the physician and APP teams to develop clinical programs, enhance clinical operations, and improve patient experience across the organizations. As a Service Line administrator, JB oversaw finance, strategy, clinical operations, and personnel for the provider organizations he served. ABOUT THE HOST



Christy Bray currently serves as the Chief Strategy Officer for PracticeLink, a leading platform in healthcare recruitment. Christy has extensive experience in the healthcare industry, including VP of Provider Talent at Ardent Health Services, AVP of Provider Recruitment at Lifepoint Health and Physician Recruiter and Senior Consultant at Banner Health. She is skilled in provider relations, team building, process improvement, staffing solutions and previously served in several committee roles for the Association for Advancing Physician and Provider Recruitment (AAPPR).

<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Hosted by Charley Lowry</h2>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Episode Four with guest Scott Gay</h2>



<iframe title="Surviving &#038; Thriving in Residency Podcast Episode 4" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=yhypk-18cc964-pb&#038;from=pb6admin&#038;share=1&#038;download=1&#038;rtl=0&#038;fonts=Arial&#038;skin=1&#038;font-color=&#038;logo_link=episode_page&#038;btn-skin=7" loading="lazy"></iframe>



For this fourth episode of the &#8220;Surviving &amp; Thriving in Residency&#8221; podcast, host Charley Lowry welcomes Dr. Scott Gay, a physician in the division of Resuscitation and Emergency critical Care at Prisma Hospital in Greenville, SC.



Together they discuss his medical school challenges, physician wellbeing and work-life balance, and the importance of building lifelong connections in the medical world.



Click the “Podcast Apps” icon in the above media player (top right, next to the download icon) to listen to the podcast on your choice of major streaming platform.



For more information, visit <a href="http://www.practicelink.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PracticeLink.com</a> or email <a href="mailto:PLMedia@PracticeLink.com">PLMedia@PracticeLink.com</a>.



ABOUT THE SURVIVING &amp; THRIVING IN RESIDENCY PODCAST



This ongoing series, hosted by PracticeLink Director of Graduate Medical Education (GME) Outreach Director Charley Lowry, focuses on the journey to become a physician &#8212; from med school through residency and fellowship. These episodes, released weekly, consist of Charley leading a thoughtful discussion with healthcare professionals who share tips and insightful information from their own medical journey to inform and provide priceless guidance for the next generation of prospective healers. Medical students, residents and fellows can all benefit from the candid conversations, which are often based on questions and topics directly supplied by those who are in the early steps of their healthcare careers.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="500" height="500" src="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/scottgay.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-41486" srcset="https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/scottgay.jpeg 500w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/scottgay-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://practicelinkwp.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/scottgay-150x150.jpeg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure>



DR. SCOTT GAY, TODAY&#8217;S PODCAST GUEST



Dr. Scott E. Gay is an attending physician with the newly formed&nbsp;division of Resuscitation and Emergency Critical Care at Prisma Hospital in Greenville, South Carolina. Here he serves as an attending physician in both the ICU and ER. Additionally, he has a faculty appointment with the USC Greenville school of medicine.



ABOUT THE HOST



Charles (Charley) Lowry currently serves as the Director of Graduate Medical Education (GME) Outreach for PracticeLink. Before PracticeLink, in his role as Statewide Campus Director, Charley worked directly with medical students and residents at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. In his current role, Charley provides all the necessary tools and resources for residents/fellows to be successful in finding their first practice after residency. He frequently collaborates with residency directors and coordinators across the country to provide free PracticeLink resources to their programs including webinars, CV reviews and in-person presentations of&nbsp;First Practice: The Resident and Fellow Career Guide. &nbsp;



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Why physicians should ask about onboarding and retention during the job interview

Workforce Wisdom: The Future of Healthcare Talent Podcast

Meet Dr. Alejandro Nieto Dominguez, Recipient of a First Practice Fund scholarship

Surviving & Thriving in Residency Podcast

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Meet Jill Wenger, Recipient of a First Practice Fund scholarship

Surviving & Thriving in Residency Podcast

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PracticeLink Announces Inaugural First Practice Fund Scholarship Recipients

Surviving & Thriving in Residency Podcast

Workforce Wisdom: The Future of Healthcare Talent Podcast

Surviving & Thriving in Residency Podcast