Help with Quitting a Job

I will say that you need to talk to his wife and let her know that you are concerned and you think the time has come for him to retire. You need to also talk to him directly and be honest that you know he cares about his patients and can't imagine anyone taking better care of them than he does, but it is time that he find a replacement or another Dr to take over his practice. Let him know it is time he cared for himself and enjoy his life and retirement. It is hard for Dr's to give up what is so apart of their lives/self but if you are becoming his cruch and he is cancelling appts then he needs to retire. You can suggest that he find a younger Dr who would like to buy his practice but is willing to allow him to stay on as a consultant for a year or so. That may make the transition smoother.

Aww-I feel so bad for this guy..and for you to be in this situation. I would call his wife today and ask to have lunch with her and tell her everything. Most likely she will agree with you. Then together you can get a plan to get him to retire. His wife is in the best position to do this in the most gentle way possible while still allowing to keep his dignity and to exit with pride a profession that he has spent his life in. Please do NOT call the medical board!!! This should be the last resort. Actually-in no circumstance would I do this to him. Worst scenario is that his wife is not receptive to your advice and you leave...he then is stuck and the practice will pretty much end. On HIS terms.

I would imagine that in the back of his mind he already has a plan for what he would do if you ever quit. You just have to be honest. He may be waiting for the day you quit so he can retire. Maybe he's been hangin in there just for you!
I would definitely give him at least a 2 week notice, surely you would try to at least train someone to take your spot before you bailed, right?
I'd write out a heart felt resignation since you do care for him and have worked with him for so long..... You will feel a big load removed when you finally do it.

I suggest staying away from telling his wife he is not well. People can be in denial and bitter.

If you have another job, you have a date you have to leave, so the sooner the better. I would just toss it up in the air and see what his reaction is. If he needs to retire, then telling him now will give his patients time to find another doctor. As well, perhaps your office has a doctor they would like to send everyones files to and possibly the opportunity to establish the relationship. That is what has been done when my doctors have retired or passed.

I can't imagine how difficult this must be for you.

Have you tried talking to him about bringing in a younger doctor who could reduce the work load? This would encourage him to think about retirement, give you another set of eyes and ears in the office, and make an easier transition for the patients.

I would just be honest. He may be holding on for you like you are holding on for him. In the long run you could be doing him a favor as well by getting him to retire. If he does get upset perhaps you can suggest him taking on a younger doctor to help him so he can eventually give his practice over to them. That's what my pediatrician did and we loved the replacement doctor as well. You can offer to train the person, as well as take part in the hiring of the person, so it would give him enough time replace you, then he won't feel so abandoned by you. Good luck!!

I would not mention anything to his wife. If she approachs you then be honest and upfront about the situation.

If you already have another job, then give him the standard 2 week notice. If at all possible, you can help him to make the transition, by offering to train your replacement, or continuing to work on a part time basis for a month or two (in addition to your new position).

I bet he shuts down his practice when you leave. Your instincts are right about him possibly hurting someone. I would talk to him and let him know your plans on leaving and I bet he also will make this his last hurrah as well. It's perfect timing, right at the end of the year.

Have you called the medical board in your area? If not, I would and let them know what you have seen etc. He could be putting many people in danger if he is unable physically to practice. I would pospone your quitting until you get that handled. You have an obligation to the public to do this. Good luck.

M

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