Inside the retention gap: Why engagement shouldn’t stop after physicians sign

At the 2025 MGMA Leaders Conference in Orlando, Helen Falkner, regional vice president of recruiting and partner at Jackson Physician Search, explained why the months between signing and starting a new role can make or break a physician’s commitment to an organization.

“Incredibly important,” Falkner says. “We see lots of healthcare organizations put on a great interview, and then the communication falls off between the signing of the agreement and the physician start date.”

She notes that recruitment timelines often stretch six, 12, or even 18 months — making consistent communication essential. “Best practice would be to continue to have frequent check-ins with your provider,” Falkner says. “Have a structured pre-boarding and onboarding process, and ensure there’s a point person within the organization who reaches out regularly.”

She also encourages practices to engage physicians and their families early. “If you’ve got different things going on in the community between the time of signing and the start date, extend the invite to the physician and their family,” Falkner says. “Include them in the community and help them feel more settled once they get to you.”