Urban Medicine

5 Reasons to Practice Medicine in New York, New York

Everything you need to know about living and working in New York City, the most populous city in the country.


Composed of five boroughs, New York City sits on the southern tip of New York. This cultural and financial hub is home to nearly 9 million people. It also boasts the largest municipal healthcare system in the United States — NYC Health + Hospitals, a PS&D partner. Learn more about why physicians and advanced practice clinicians enjoy living and practicing medicine in this vibrant, thriving metropolitan area.

Connect with Our Healthcare Partners in New York, NY

PS&D is proud to work with three health systems that serve patients throughout the New York City area — NYC Health + Hospitals, Charles B. Wang Community Health Center and MediSys Health Network.

NYC Health + Hospitals

With more than 45,000 healthcare professionals, this system provides care to over 1 million patients annually in more than 70 locations throughout the city, including acute-care hospitals, community-based health centers, long-term care and rehabilitation facilities, home care services and correctional health services. As a safety-net system with 3,407 staffed beds, it delivers a full continuum of services — Primary, Urgent, Behavioral Health and specialty care — to all patients regardless of immigration status or ability to pay. There are active jobs available within the NYC Health + Hospitals system.

Charles B. Wang Community Health Center

This center, with four locations throughout Manhattan, is ranked by the National Committee for Quality Assurance as a Level 3 patient-centered medical home. Healthcare professionals deliver Primary Care, Pediatric, OB/GYN, Pulmonology, Urology, dental, optometry and mental healthcare. The center, which has active job opportunities, is dedicated to providing bilingual and bicultural care to underserved communities regardless of immigration status or ability to pay.

MediSys Health Network

The MediSys Health Network 532-bed health system provides community-based care to a diverse patient population. With 10 community-based Family Care Centers, the Jamaica and Flushing Hospital Medical Centers and Jamaica Nursing Home, this network offers preventive health and Primary Care services, Behavioral Health care and care for traumatic brain injury. There are active job opportunities within the MediSys Health Network.

Most Popular Destinations Near New York City

New York City is filled with artistic, athletic and academic activities. There may be times you want to temporarily escape the noise and traffic, though. Within 90 miles of the city, those who live and work here can step back into nature for some peace and relaxation. Learn more about some of the most popular day trip destinations.

Cold Spring

This 19th-century town sits 50 miles north of Manhattan along the Hudson River. Accessible by a one-hour train ride, the town is filled with antique stores, coffee shops and boutiques. Most restaurants offer outdoor seating so diners can enjoy the brook running through Main Street. If you enjoy water sports, it’s a fantastic spot for boating, kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding.

Bear Mountain State Park

Do you love hiking? This protected nature preserve 50 miles north of the city offers multiple trails throughout its 5,000 acres of wooded mountain land. You can also fish in its lake and river. Complete the 3.6-mile climb to the top of Bear Mountain Summit Loop and be rewarded with a beautiful tree-top view. Visit during the summer to enjoy picnics, swimming and playing in the fields. Take a trip during the winter for cross-country skiing and ice skating.

Sleepy Hollow

History buffs will enjoy a step back in time with a day trip to the town that inspired Washington Irving’s tale of the Headless Horseman. Accessible by a 45-minute train ride, this village gives you a glimpse of colonial-era life through farming and milling demonstrations. Haunted hayrides, live music, street fairs and parades during the fall months provide plenty of entertainment. Guided cemetery tours by kerosene lamps will give your trip an extra spooky feeling.

Fun Facts About New York City

FAQs

Why should I practice medicine in New York, NY?

You’ll have plenty of opportunity to find and develop your niche serving New York City’s large, growing and diverse patient population. Build your network, pursue your medical interests and enjoy the support that comes from living and practicing in a big city with plenty of specialists.

Why practice medicine in urban areas?

Practicing medicine in an urban area offers physicians support, resources, growth and many times, higher salaries. Working in a big city will give you the chance to specialize and build your expertise in an area of medicine you’re passionate about. You’ll have the resources you need at your fingertips, including support staff, specialists, labs, research connections and opportunities, and testing facilities — all of which make diagnosis and treatment easier. Urban centers also offer diversity, convenience, and amenities like restaurants, entertainment venues, fitness facilities and cultural events, usually within a 15-mile radius.

What is the New York State physician licensing process?

The physician licensing process for every state requires verification of your education and graduate training, exam scores, references, hospital privileges and any current or past licenses. You must submit proof that you’ve completed all three United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) steps. It’s important to learn what to expect, as the physician licensing process — from when you submit your application until your license is granted — typically takes at least 60 days.

Are physician relocation loans common?

Yes, physician relocation loans are common, especially in the form of medical residency relocation loans. Unlike student loans, medical residency relocation loan funds go directly to the borrower. In addition to moving costs, they can pay for board certification, clinical exams and living expenses. These loans frequently have lower interest rates and are only available to medical residents who can provide proof of residency or internship, such as a match letter.
Some practices also have a set amount of money dedicated to relocation packages. These loans typically cover your expenses for travel, flights, hotels, meals, house-hunting and moving your belongings. It’s important to note that any physician relocation loans you receive are considered taxable income, so plan accordingly.

How do you write a physician resignation letter?

If you choose to leave a job, you’re not alone. In fact, 70% of doctors in all specialties will leave their first job within two years. Writing an effective physician resignation letter is important if — and when — you decide to move on. You’ll also want to ensure that you are legally compliant. Be sure to review what's required.

As you write your physician resignation letter, make sure to include:

  • A clear statement that you’re leaving.
  • Where you’re going.
  • Your professional contact information.
  • A personal reflection on your time at the practice.
  • Reassurance that patient medical records are available upon request.
  • Recommendations for other physicians.

Is Practicing Medicine in New York City right for me?

Connect with Provider Solutions & Development to learn more.

Our provider and physician recruiters understand the full picture of what it's like to live and work in New York City and locations across the country.

Want to explore job opportunities in New York City? We can help connect you to a role that will elevate your career and enrich your life. Let's start the conversation.

PS&D supports more than 30 health systems, from Hawaii to Alaska to New York. We serve physicians and advanced practice clinicians with heart, from residency to retirement so that they can do the same for their patients. With exclusive access to hundreds of positions, PS&D offers holistic recruitment advice and placement that puts clinicians’ needs first.