The impact of debt on physician autonomy

Neglecting your finances can profoundly impact your career and the choices available to you as a physician. Graduating with hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt can significantly affect your autonomy. If you immediately purchase a large house, a new car, and take on additional debt, your career options become limited, especially if you work in a small town with few employment opportunities.

Financial constraints can stifle your ability to speak out on issues you care about or push back against anything that encroaches on your autonomy. When you're financially overextended, you might feel trapped and unable to make career moves that align with your values or professional goals. This financial burden can lead to a sense of being backed into a corner, making it challenging to advocate for yourself or your patients effectively.

I strive to communicate this message to new attendings, emphasizing the importance of financial mindfulness. By managing your finances wisely, you can maintain greater control over your career, uphold your values, and ensure you have the freedom to make choices that truly reflect your professional and personal aspirations.

Neill Slater is an emergency physician.

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