Episode 557: MJA Podcasts 2024 Episode 16: where a career as a doctor can take you, with Dr Anna Samecki
May 12, 2024
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Dr. Anna Samecki shares her journey from GP to medical advisor, highlighting the balance between clinical and non-clinical roles for well-being. The podcast explores career transitions, recruitment challenges, and reflections on moving to the pharmaceutical industry. Practical advice is shared on upskilling, networking, and seizing new opportunities in medical careers.
Exploring non-clinical paths in medicine offers diverse career opportunities outside traditional clinical roles.
Transitioning into non-clinical roles requires a mindset shift, adaptability, transferable skills, and a willingness to learn.
Deep dives
Dr. Simecki's Journey from Clinical Practice to Non-Clinical Roles
Dr. Anna Simecki transitioned from a clinical role as a general practitioner into various non-clinical positions. Starting as a GP registrar pondering alternative career paths, she pursued an academic post involving teaching and research. Discovering her passion for education over research, she extended her teaching contract, creating a balance between clinical and non-clinical roles.
Challenges Faced and Skill Development in Non-Clinical Roles
Transitioning into non-clinical roles presented unique challenges for Dr. Simecki, including self-confidence hurdles and adapting to diverse responsibilities. Despite not meeting all requirements, she emphasized transferable skills and a willingness to learn. Dr. Simecki's roles as a medical writer and advisor required versatile skills like communication and evidence translation, further developed through on-the-job experiences.
Insights into the Pharmaceutical Industry and Career Transition Advice
Entering the pharmaceutical industry expanded Dr. Simecki's understanding of drug development processes and industry regulations. She highlighted the significant investment in research, education, and patient advocacy by pharmaceutical companies. Providing advice for health professionals considering non-clinical roles, Dr. Simecki emphasized mindset, networking, upskilling, seeking mentorship, and taking calculated risks to navigate career transitions successfully.