How to Find Better EM Candidates, Faster

Never overlook the insights of non-physicians in your ED. Recent hires or those who pull additional shifts at other facilities in the area undoubtedly will have favorite physicians they’ve worked with—and a line on how those docs feel about their current place of practice.

Every community has its movers and shakers—those people who seem to know everyone. Whether that community is the specialty of emergency medicine, a state medical organization, or simply your local geographic area, tap those in-the-know folks for recommendations about candidates or connections to others who might know of potential candidates.

Fact: The most effective recruiting doesn’t happen behind a computer terminal. Make sure your recruiters are an active part of local, state, and/or professional organizations. Encourage them to get involved, take a leadership role, and show up to network at events.

Local Recruiting: In and around your region, what are the other big employers of the specialty you’re seeking? Search professional/social networks like LinkedIn or the organizations’ websites for potential candidates. Ideally, you’ll be able to reach and learn more about the people you find through a referral from your networking or professional organization contacts, but if no connection exists, contact the people directly.