Dear Anita,]

You are absolutely correct about the calculated risk part.  I also agree about the fear aspect and seeing this current job in a different light.  But here’s the thing, that perhaps I did not mention.  His department (subspecialty) is currently in the growth phase.  Some older surgeons retired and they have hired new ones (such as my husband and one 2 years prior who is his colleague and now friend – nice person and i’ve met his wife a few months back).  They are re-building it many ways, which takes a lot of time esp when it comes to large nyc hospitals (as you can imagine).  In the past few months, they have hired a new physician’s assistant, and other staff members.  These changes have already started to help my husband somewhat.  When he spoke to th chairman to give his notice, he did mention certain aspects of the job that were difficult such as the need for more staff such as PA, and the rigorous call schedule.  The chairman noted that they would be hiring more PAs and hopefully another surgeon in the next year, to reduce the burden on my husband and his colleague.

That being said, these things do not change the: patient population, and the overall daily struggles that go with an inner city setting type hospital.  Yet, he believes that once he gets things like his own PA, a new secretary, etc – some of the daily nitty gritty annoyances will be reduced.

I can see that.

BUT (huge but) the overall demographic remains the same.  I will say though, sometimes with the right set up (staff, and subspecialty organization) even the most difficult hospital positions can be become okay since there is a reliable daily/regular flow.  it takes away th need to “hustle” per say.

It all depends on the person, and what they are looking for.

you are right, will he/can he survive the move.

I think in so many ways – why throw such a huge stressor (and yes it is a stressor) onto him at this point in our lives.  What he craves is more peace…what we crave is more peace.  But I see the calculated risk, and the long term potential for more peace perhaps in SD…

Oh my!