kirch14
Registered User
Posts: 2
(8/21/01 4:03:30 pm)
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Attending Call
I am trying to get an idea what call is like for General Orthopaedics attendings in different settings. I
know private practice in a small town leads to horrible trauma call and nights away from home. I also
know that it depends on the type of practice like sports etc. Any insight on either personal experiences
or situations regarding call would be greatly appreciated.
OrthoDoc
ezOP
Posts: 59
(8/21/01 6:14:39 pm)
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Community Supporter
Re: Attending Call
Call is so variable that you can't really make any generalizations. You can choose and select your practice
to fit your lifestyle. I would say that at most small hospitals in small towns, the call is very light. All major
trauma will be diverted to the regional Level I center and it would be rare to see an open fracture. Most
ER docs can splint most things and refer them to your office. You only get called for those things that
need admitted or reduced. Now, if you are joining the staff at a regional trauma center without residents,
your life will be much different. I take call about 1 day a week at a community hospital in a town of
60,000 and during the week days, I may go to the ER once, maybe twice and rarely after 10:00pm. On
the weekend, it is very dependent on the weather. Occasionally, I don't do much, other times I do
several cases. I wouldn't worry about call if you truly love orthopedics. Your lifestyle will depend on the
practice your choose.
kirch14
Registered User
Posts: 3
(8/21/01 6:52:44 pm)
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Attending Call
Thanks for your input. My wife is concerned about this because of an orthopaedic surgeon we know who
has been hit pretty hard during call in his first two years of practice. I am relieved to see that it can
pretty good when it comes to call.
