understanding a physician call schedule

my_0.02
Sun, 27 Jul 2008 00:54:03 +0000

The 1:3 call definition runs counter to most mathematical conventions – BRM would be correct in his interpretation if docs were correct in their usage.

Most job postings state call as 1:3, 1:4 or the like without providing a definition of 1:3 or 1:4. The few that provide sufficient information for an exact definition support the interpretation of “1:3” as “1/3”.

For example:

There are approximately 400 surgeries performed in the OR per month by 3 General Surgeons. Call coverage is 1:3, and hospital maintains a hospitalist program. Salary range is competitive and negotiable with a one year contract with renewals. Relocation costs and loan repayment are available as well as CME allowance. Benefits include 20 days paid time off, plus 7 holidays, paid malpractice, and full employee benefits package. Please refer to position number KRC.0208.1201.19C.

[Full Time General Surgery Job in Southeast with Rural Health Education & Services positions @ Physician Employment](http://www.physemp.com/physician_jobs/all_general_surgery_jobs_in_kansas/page_1.html)

BTW, those of you interested in actual salary information for physicians will find the the [Indeed](http://www.indeed.com/) site useful. Indeed provides metasearching of recruitment agency listing for many professions. To use it, simply plug in the profession and click “find jobs.” (Perhaps this will end speculation about current physician salaries.)