Joel Greenwald, MD, CFP

As physicians near retirement, they often wonder how they can turn the nest eggs they've accumulated into income for the rest of their lives. For some, annuities may be the answer.

Many physicians don't often give adequate thought and planning to the "when" and "how" of their Social Security benefits. Such an oversight might result in missing out on hundreds of thousands of dollars over their lifetime.

Many physicians planning for retirement often wonder how much they'll be able to safely withdraw. In the past, people followed the 4% rule, but the method doesn't really apply anymore.

By determining how much risk is appropriate in your portfolio you are taking steps that will help you guard against panic and regret during the next bear market.

For many physicians the term "required minimum distributions" remains a mystery. However, it is critical that physicians pay attention to RMDs - overlooking the rules can be costly.

Physicians are in the business of protecting the health and livelihoods of their patients. Why should their own health and livelihoods be any different?