ACEP Exploring Retirement Section Spotlight: Building Community and Planning for the Long Game

In this ACEP Early Career Physicians spotlight, Dr. Laurel Barr talks with Dr. Stephen Anderson, Chair of the Exploring Retirement Section, about how early and mid-career physicians can plan ahead, protect priorities, and use Section resources like webinars, affinity groups, and mentorship to build a long and satisfying career on their terms.

What the Section offers

Dr. Anderson explains that the Section shares lessons from long careers to help early and mid career physicians navigate today’s challenges. He emphasizes that the problems have changed over time, with more focus now on corporate control and finding ways to regain ownership of your career.

Affinity groups that match real needs

The Section organizes affinity groups so members can get focused support and faster answers. Key areas include:

• Financial planning
• Alternate employment
• Health and well being
• Networking and community
• Coaching and mentoring

Anderson highlights a key distinction: mentoring shares what worked for someone else, while coaching helps you find solutions that work for you now.

Webinars you can use now

The Section offers archived webinars on topics such as financial planning for retirement, choosing where to live based on healthcare access, and planning for complex life situations like caring for a spouse with dementia. The message is that the earlier you learn these basics, the easier it is to make decisions later.
Mentors, coaches, and a safe sounding board

Dr. Anderson encourages early career physicians to find a mentor within the Section, especially someone removed from your workplace so you can speak freely. He also highlights the difference between mentoring and coaching, with coaching focused on helping you find solutions that fit your situation today.

Career longevity and priorities

Dr. Anderson’s core advice is to prioritize family first, whatever makes you whole second, and job third. Dr. Barr adds that finding a job you can sustain for decades may matter more than chasing short term pay at the cost of burnout.

How to get involved

Dr. Anderson suggests showing up at meetings during Leadership and Advocacy Conference and Scientific Assembly, joining webinars, and connecting through the affinity group chairs. He also offers to help match people to the right contacts, including the incoming chair, Dr. Fred Dennis.

Closing takeaways

Dr. Anderson closes with three points. Start planning early with an exit strategy and a financial planner. Show up, listen, and speak up because you belong in the room. Protect your priorities so work does not replace the parts of life that keep you whole.

Visit the Exploring Retirement Section to learn more and get involved.