Finding a job in the Phoenix Metro Area

Not every doctor enjoys waking up in the morning and racing across the cold floors to grab their robe—or bundling up in several layers (not necessarily matching) before racing outside to scrape the ice from their car.  Shocking, I know, but cold weather just isn’t for everyone.

For the physician who is perfectly content in sunshine and warm weather, Phoenix, Arizona might be worth considering.  This city stands as a desert oasis, brimming with Southwest zest and an active night life.  Physicians living in the Phoenix area trade in their heavy coat for a fall jacket, as the winter months are temperate, usually remaining in the 60 to 70 degree range during the day. 

In addition to annual warm weather, people are drawn to Phoenix for its significant economic growth, making Arizona’s capital city one of the fastest growing cities in the United States.  Phoenix is home to three fortune 100 companies and also Arizona State University, which draws many scholars due to its various education and research programs.  Phoenix also boasts a healthy golf industry and caters toward a large seasonal tourist crowd. 

Due to its “just bring a light jacket” weather, several Major League Baseball teams migrate to Phoenix for spring training.  The sports loving physician could always sneak a peak at their favorite pitcher before the season is underway.  In fact, Phoenix is one of the ultimate destinations for a sports lover, as it is one of the few cities with major and minor league teams in the same sport.  A few of the major league teams include the Phoenix Suns, the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Phoenix Coyotes, and the Arizona Cardinals.

If you are the type of doctor who prefers a night at the symphony to a night at the stadium, you will be pleased to hear that Phoenix also has a deep pocket of performing art centers and museums.  Sit back in the Orpheum Theatre and watch the curtains swing open to reveal the Phoenix Metropolitan Opera in full costume, ready to entertain.  Or, head just north of town to the Heard Museum, a compilation of dazzling Southwest artifacts ranging from contemporary jewelry to a 19th century boarding school model for Native Americans. 

The Heard Museum would make a great family outing on the weekend, followed by a trip to one of the many water parks that speckle the cityscape.  (Little tip: Dangle the water park trip as a carrot during the museum and suddenly you’ll have the best-behaved kids in the place.)  Education for those little angels can be provided by a Grade A public school located in one of the 30 plus school districts.  Private and charter schools are also available, offering a unique learning environment.

For physicians who like to travel or who have family overseas, The Sky Harbor International Airport hosts several airlines with international destinations including London.  There are also a plethora of hospitals/clinics in the Phoenix area including St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, a full-service facility that offers a 24-hour emergency level one trauma center, outpatient surgery, and women's maternity and orthopedic services.

So, if balmy breezes and a Southwest setting sound like an ideal backdrop for your medical practice, then consider Phoenix, Arizona as your next potential home.