As a resident physician, are you thinking about where you want to build your future in medicine? Meet AMA member Dina Halegoua-De Marzio, MD, a gastroenterology and transplant hepatology specialist and a featured voice in the AMA’s “Finding My Place in Medicine” series.
In this series, physicians reflect on what influenced their decisions when choosing where to work—and what they wish they had known earlier. Explore her journey to help guide your own path toward a fulfilling medical career.
If you are looking for your first physician job after residency, get your cheat sheet now from the AMA. In addition, the AMA Transitioning to Practice series has guidance and resources on deciding where to practice, negotiating an employment contract, managing work-life balance, and other essential tips about starting in practice—including in private practice.
"Following” Dr. Dina Halegoua-De Marzio
Specialty: Gastroenterology and transplant hepatology.
Practice setting: Academic medical center.
Employment type: Employed by Jefferson Health, in Philadelphia. Jefferson Health is part of the AMA Health System Member Program, which provides enterprise solutions to equip leadership, physicians and care teams with resources to help drive the future of medicine.
Years in practice: 12.
Key factors that led to me choosing to work at Jefferson Health: The key factors that led me to choose to work here were Jefferson’s reputation for excellent patient care, the health system’s deep importance to the Philadelphia community and the opportunity to serve patients in an organization that truly makes a difference.
I was also drawn to the culture and the people. Practicing medicine requires teamwork, dedication and compassion, and I appreciate being part of an organization that recognizes the hard work of its physicians, nurses and staff. Compared with other places, Jefferson felt like the right fit because its mission, commitment to the community and clinical environment align with the kind of physician I strive to be.
What stood out to me during the interview and hiring process: The things that stood out most were the strong sense of mission, the teamwork, the transparency and the respect for the people who work here. It felt like everyone was on a level playing field and the path to success was clear. Specific to my field, I was impressed by the organization’s commitment to complex patient care, multidisciplinary collaboration and serving patients with serious gastrointestinal and liver disease.
How feedback from peers and mentors influenced my evaluation process: The most important advice I received was to choose a position that aligned not only with my clinical interests, but also with my long-term academic and professional goals. They encouraged me to look closely at the culture, the people, the clinical environment and whether the institution would support my growth as a physician. Also, the job I chose needed to have opportunities for growth within the organization.
Why I chose to work in this practice setting: Factors I considered were the reputation for excellent clinical care, opportunities for collaboration and the presence of supportive, hard-working ancillary staff. As a gastroenterologist and transplant hepatologist, I wanted to work in a setting with other dedicated specialists across multiple fields, because caring for complex patients requires a true multidisciplinary approach.
I was also drawn to an academic environment because I enjoy teaching medical students, residents and fellows. Working with trainees is rewarding and helps keep me engaged as a physician. At the same time, I considered work-life balance and sustainability. I wanted a place where I could contribute meaningfully, continue to grow professionally and still maintain balance outside of work.
The top three qualities for a great place to work for physicians: I would say collaboration, commitment to patient care, and support for professional growth and work-life balance. Physicians do their best work when they are surrounded by strong colleagues, respected as part of a team and given the resources needed to provide excellent care. It is also important to work in an environment that supports teaching, research, mentorship and long-term career development, while recognizing that balance and sustainability are essential in medicine.
How my current practice supports physician well-being and work-life balance: In my current practice, we have protected time for administrative tasks and all share call and service responsibilities equally. Additionally, we share coverage of clinical duties when needed for vacation, traveling to national meetings or family-related issues. This allows me to have a clear schedule for planning uninterrupted time with my family and friends.
The workplace attributes that contribute most to my job satisfaction at Jefferson Health: A few of them are transparency, communication and feeling that our voices are heard. I appreciate that the organization makes an effort to listen to physicians and provide frequent opportunities for feedback through our directors. That sense of being heard, supported and respected has been one of the most meaningful parts of working at Jefferson.
The biggest challenges I faced when transitioning from residency to practice: It was adjusting to the increased independence and responsibility. In training, you always have a structured support system around you. In practice, you still collaborate with colleagues, but you have to develop confidence in your own clinical judgment and decision-making. Joining a supportive team is key to your success, and it is important to remind yourself you are still learning even after you complete residency.
What I wish I had known about evaluating a job offer before choosing my first position: As a physician, it is important to understand what the job will feel like day to day, including workload, call responsibilities, administrative support and opportunities for growth. It is also important to pay attention to whether the position would support your long-term goals in teaching, research, mentorship and academic development. The best job offer is not just the one that looks good on paper, but the one that gives you the environment and resources to build a meaningful and sustainable career.
What I would have done differently when choosing my first job after residency: I would have asked more detailed questions about the day-to-day realities of the position. Early in the job search, it is natural to focus on reputation, title, salary or the overall opportunity, but long-term satisfaction often depends on the culture, support systems, workload, call structure and communication from leadership.
Fortunately, my job at Jefferson was the perfect fit for my career and continues to provide opportunities to further my career. However, if I were looking for a job currently, I would ask about mentorship, teaching opportunities, research support and whether physicians have a meaningful voice in the organization.
How my current role compares with what I imagined: My current role has aligned closely with what I imagined, but it has also been rewarding in ways I did not fully anticipate. What has stood out most is how meaningful it is to be part of a supportive team that is committed to excellence in clinical care. I also enjoy the opportunity to teach medical students, residents and fellows, which adds another important dimension to the role. While the work is demanding, it has allowed me to grow as a physician, contribute to the academic mission and make a meaningful impact on patients and trainees.
