In this episode of the Boss Business of Surgery Series, Dr. Amy Vertrees sits down with Dr. Courtney McKeown, who shares her remarkable journey from navigating an operative gap to becoming chief of surgery at a rural hospital.

Dr. McKeown opens up about the challenges she faced after being laid off from her first job, her prior recovery from substance use disorder, and the difficulties of securing a new position with a gap in her surgical practice. Together, Dr. Vertrees and Dr. McKeown dive deep into what it takes to return to surgery after time away, from licensing hurdles to credentialing committees, malpractice insurance, and professional references.

The conversation also highlights the American Board of Surgery’s reentry guidelines, state-specific policies on operative gaps, and the importance of supportive partners and mentorship during the reentry process.

Now serving as chief of surgery, Dr. McKeown reflects on how her experience not only rebuilt her career but also brought life-changing surgical services to underserved communities. Her story is both a candid look at the obstacles surgeons face and an inspiring example of resilience, mentorship, and community impact.

The challenges of returning to surgery after an operative gap

How state licensing boards and disciplinary history affect reentry

The step-by-step process of hospital credentialing

Why references and case logs are crucial for reentry

Insights into the American Board of Surgery’s reentry guidelines

The role of mentorship and supportive partners in regaining confidence

How Dr. McKeown expanded surgical services in rural Tennessee hospitals

90-Day Notice Program for doctors seeking new positions – launching Sept 28 at 4 p.m. CT Click HERE

Keep case logs organized (last 12 months, last 2 years, etc.) for credentialing

American Board of Surgery Reentry Guidelines HERE

Joint Commission FPPE Guidelines HERE

00:00 – Introduction to Dr. McKeown’s journey

01:14 – Background and initial challenges

04:01 – Finding a new position

05:44 – Licensing challenges

07:09 – State requirements for operative gaps

09:13 – Impact on board certification

10:36 – Reciprocal disciplinary actions

16:13 – Malpractice insurance considerations

17:22 – Reference challenges

19:43 – Finding the right practice environment

22:00 – Qualities to look for in partners

24:47 – Mutual benefits of mentorship

36:49 – Hospital credentialing process

42:08 – ABS reentry guidelines

46:58 – Gradual return to independent practice

56:42 – Current success as chief of surgery

59:57 – Expanding services and rural community impact

1:02:25 – Conclusion and future impact

🎧 Listen now to hear Dr. McKeown’s inspiring story of resilience, reentry, and redefining what it means to build a surgical career.