Patients need medical care and attention at all hours of the day, so this is something you’ll have to consider. Depending on what healthcare profession you plan to move into will determine what hours you’re likely to work. Nurses, paramedics, and emergency department personnel, for instance, are likely to be required for night shifts and festive holidays. General physicians, however, are more likely to work regular nine to five schedules, although this can vary widely depending on various factors. It’s therefore a good idea to get advice from a specialist, such as a physician recruiter, to help you decide on what path you want to take.

Will you need a license?
Many professions within the healthcare sector require you to have a license before you can practice and this can vary from state to state. Licenses are essential for anyone wishing to work as a surgeon, nursing practitioner, physician, physician assistant, and many other professions. It’s unlikely to be the case that you just qualify for your chosen profession and then land a job. Whether you plan to be a physician or a physiotherapist, you will need to make sure you have the relevant licensing requirements and consider their processing times before you are allowed to practice. The American Medical Association recommends that physicians wait a minimum of 60 days from the time of completing their license application to the time they actually receive the license. Also think about any licensing fees you might have to pay.