When you think about the field of radiology, do you picture yourself working from dusk to dawn for years at a time? I suspect that most of you have not. More likely, you’ve probably dreamed of a 9-5 job with an occasional call on weekends and evenings. So, what do you lose out on by beginning a career as a nighthawk? And, are there any permanent advantages to working as a Nighthawk for years? Let’s delve into the main issues of working as a radiology Nighthawk.
Why Nighthawk Can Be So Difficult
Imagine yourself on the computer at night beginning at 10 pm and working until the wee hours of the morning at 7 am, reading films night after night. For most people, social and business activities occur during the daylight hours. So, when you create a schedule for yourself such as this, you essentially live the life of a loner. Sure, you may receive phone calls from attendings and medical professionals who need your assistance from time to time. But are those interactions you looked for when you decided to go into radiology? Probably not.
Furthermore, say you need to take care of some business at a bank or make returns to a store. These mundane activities turn into a real hassle. Instead of conveniently stopping by these places to take care of business, now you must reverse your entire schedule to get there. It can be hard enough sometimes to get out of work, even for me during the daytime! I can only imagine the difficulties for a nighthawk.
And then, of course, there are the health issues. Study after study has espoused the dangers of reversing one’s sleep schedule to counter normal nighttime sleep. Take a look at this article from the sleep foundation (1). They list many physical, mental, performance, and safety issues the night worker encounters. Believe it or not, it includes increased cancer risks, depression, and more. Do you want to take on these increased risks?
The Allure Of Nighthawk
Yet, wouldn’t it be nice to set up shop any place you want? Do you want to live on the west side of Manhattan? Or, maybe rent a home in Malibu on the beach? Well, it doesn’t matter if local jobs are unavailable when you are a Nighthawk. You can work from anywhere. But is it worth the sacrifice?
For some folks, Nighthawk positions allow radiologists to get their proverbial foot in the door. In some locations, getting into a practice can be exceedingly tricky. (although not as much in the current job market!) And sometimes, Nighthawk can be a solution. Because the hours are less desirable, radiologists are less likely to compete for these entry jobs. Now, you have a way in. But don’t think you can quickly work your way into a daytime position. Other radiologists in practice certainly will not chomp at the bit to take your place!
Then, working at an office or hospital with others may not sit well. Some people would instead go it alone, literally. Of course, Nighthawk from home can be a very solitary assignment. Maybe, this is what you want from life.
And finally, practices will often jack up the income stream to entice the new radiologist to take a Nighthawk position. The savings can be enormous for those of you with extreme debt (I mean greater than 500,000 dollars). Of course, it is not without sacrifice, however.
To Make The Ultimate Sacrifice- A Nighthawk Position
In the end, it is your decision. A Nighthawk position does have significant advantages, but not without substantial sacrifices. If you are willing to forego convenience, tempt fate, and live a loner’s life but live where you want and pay your debts off sooner, then maybe, just maybe, a Nighthawk position is for you!
(1) https://sleepfoundation.org/shift-work/content/living-coping-shift-work-disorder
