The Aging Surgeon

Abstract

Everyone ages-some more gracefully than others. The changes associated with aging are well known but not often discussed. Age-related changes in surgeons may eventually lead to a need for the surgeon to stop operating or even retire. It may be difficult for the surgeon to recognize these changes, but there may be some telltale signs. If the surgeon is not able to interpret that it is time to retire, others may need to step in. Physician assessment of surgeons may be requested or required by employers or hospital credentialing committees. Although not widespread, such practices are becoming more popular. There are modern means of assessment, which include written screening examinations and actual personal professional assessment by a qualified physician evaluator. If retirement or career change is necessary, it must be carefully planned and executed for the surgeon to bow out gracefully.