Susan Slaughter Featured in AMA Interview on Physician Onboarding
Susan Slaughter, director of physician relations and practice development at Hattiesburg Clinic, was recently featured in an episode of the AMA Update, a podcast and video series produced by the American Medical Association. The episode explored the importance of a structured onboarding process for new physicians and highlighted Hattiesburg Clinic’s own onboarding process for physicians.
In the interview, hosted by Todd Unger, AMA’s chief experience officer, Slaughter shared insights into how Hattiesburg Clinic’s New Physician Onboarding Academy helps physicians transition smoothly into their roles — whether they are coming directly from residency or bringing years of experience. The 10-month program covers topics such as: value-based care, burnout, clinic operations, marketing, revenue cycles and shareholder opportunities. Importantly, new physicians are grouped together, forming early professional relationships and sharing experiences.
“We want our physicians, first and foremost, to focus on patient care and allow our resources and our services to manage the business and the development aspects of their practice,” said Slaughter during the interview.
Since its launch, results have been overwhelmingly positive, with new hires reporting increased confidence, satisfaction and understanding of clinic systems. The New Physician Onboarding Academy has helped Hattiesburg Clinic build a supportive, educational environment where new physicians feel empowered from day one. Slaughter emphasized that leadership involvement — including consistent participation from Chief Executive Officer, Bryan N. Batson, MD — has been key to the program’s success.
The New Physician Onboarding Academy not only supports physicians professionally but also helps them build personal connections within the community. By introducing new physicians to their peers and leadership early on, the program fosters a sense of belonging and collaboration. Additionally, events like the graduation dinner — which includes spouses and guests — help involve families, strengthening their ties to the clinic and local community. This holistic approach enhances physician satisfaction and promotes long-term commitment to the organization.
Hattiesburg Clinic is striving to be a leader in physician engagement and practice development, and the spotlight from the AMA affirms the Clinic’s ongoing commitment to innovation, retention and high-quality care. Slaughter encouraged other organizations to gather feedback from early-career physicians and plan onboarding content around their real-world needs.
For more information on the New Physician Onboarding Academy or to learn about joining the Hattiesburg Clinic team, visit www.hattiesburgclinic.com.
To watch the full interview, visit https://www.ama-assn.org/medical-residents/transition-resident-attending/new-physician-orientation-hospital-orientation.
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About Hattiesburg Clinic:
Hattiesburg Clinic is Mississippi’s largest privately-owned, multispecialty clinic. Founded in 1963, Hattiesburg Clinic has expanded to include over 450 physicians and providers, along with 2,500 employees, serving patients across more than 17 counties in Mississippi. Hattiesburg Clinic is committed to being the health care provider of choice in the communities we serve.