In this episode of Healthy Careers, host Maddie Traylor sits down with Steve Hatkin, Chief Operating Officer of the Orthopedic Institute, to discuss the courage it takes to change jobs in healthcare leadership—especially after a long and successful tenure.

With a background in public accounting at Coopers & Lybrand and over 17 years as a CFO in a physician-owned multi-specialty group, Steve shares his transition into a new executive role within independent orthopedic practice. The conversation dives into the realities of starting over, navigating uncertainty, and making intentional career moves in today’s evolving healthcare business environment.

This episode is essential listening for healthcare executives, administrators, physicians, and aspiring leaders who are considering a career pivot, evaluating private practice opportunities, or seeking clarity on leadership growth, work-life balance, and long-term career strategy in healthcare.

Key Takeaways:

• Why changing jobs—even after long tenure—can accelerate career growth in healthcare
• The mindset required to step into new leadership roles with confidence
• Key differences between private practice and large healthcare systems
• How healthcare finance, insurance dynamics, and regulation impact leadership decisions
• The importance of first impressions and intentional career planning
• Practical advice on maintaining work-life balance while advancing professionally

Episode Highlights:

00:34 Meet Steve Hatkin: COO and Healthcare Leader
01:33 From Public Accounting to Healthcare Finance
03:41 Understanding Healthcare as a Business
06:42 Cash Pay Models and Price Transparency
08:20 Patient Choice and Financial Decision-Making
09:46 Why Private Practice Models Can Win
15:01 17-Year Tenure: Knowing When It’s Time to Move On
18:08 Starting Over in a New Leadership Role
19:56 Why Orthopedics Offers Unique Opportunities
23:41 Having the Courage to Make a Career Leap
29:01 Advice to His Younger Self
32:47 Staying Independent and Building Strong Teams
35:21 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Growth
36:37 FREE PA Salary Guide

Keywords:

healthcare leadership careers,
changing jobs in healthcare,
healthcare executive career growth,
private practice vs hospital employment,
orthopedic practice management,
healthcare COO insights,
physician-owned practice leadership,
healthcare finance and operations,
career transitions in healthcare,
healthcare recruiting trends,
medical practice administration,
leadership development in healthcare,
Healthcare recruiting agency,
Flat fee healthcare recruiter,
Nurse practitioner and physician assistant recruiter,
Surgeon and orthopedic staffing agency,
Medical office and billing staff recruitment,

Connect with Steve Hatkin

LinkedIn: Steve Hatkin
Visit Orthopedic Institute