Transitioning from Clinical to Nonclinical Practice

A step-by-step guide for physicians looking to move from patient care to nonclinical careers.

Is a Nonclinical Career Right for You?

Before making the leap, honestly assess your motivations:

Good Reasons to Transition

  • Genuine interest in business, technology, or policy
  • Desire to impact healthcare at a systems level
  • Skills alignment with nonclinical roles
  • Seeking new intellectual challenges

Reasons to Reconsider

  • Running from burnout (may be better addressed differently)
  • Primarily motivated by money
  • Unrealistic expectations about nonclinical work

Preparing for the Transition

Education and Credentials

Consider based on your target path:
- MBA for consulting and leadership
- MPH for public health and policy
- Industry certifications (PMP, Six Sigma)
- Online courses and bootcamps

Building Experience

  • Consulting projects (start with expert networks)
  • Board positions and advisory roles
  • Industry conferences and networking
  • Writing and speaking opportunities

The Job Search

Resume vs. CV

  • Create a business-focused resume
  • Translate clinical accomplishments to business language
  • Highlight transferable skills
  • Keep to 1-2 pages

Ready to explore? Browse our nonclinical opportunities.

Put this knowledge into action

Browse curated physician opportunities and find your next career move.

Sign up required

Please sign up or log in to apply to this opportunity.

Join or sign in

Join to apply for at


or

Already have an account? Log in

Report issue

Help us improve job quality.

This information helps us improve job accuracy.
We may follow up with you about this report.
Job Actions