Transition to Practice (TTP) Webinar Series

Brought to you by the EAST Mentoring Committee

Join us for this essential four-part virtual series designed for trainees in their final year of training, e.g., chief residents and fellows. We'll guide you through crucial preparation and the transition into professional practice, covering everything from billing and coding to retirement planning and handling adverse events. This series will provide you with the knowledge and tools to navigate your next career chapter with confidence.

Session 1: Taking the Leap...Building a Foundation for Successful Transition to Practice

This session introduced the basics of the TTP course, covering foundational topics like billing and coding, the business of acute care surgery, and the variety of practice models (academic, private, locums, and non-clinical roles).
Speakers: Samir M. Fakhry, MD, FACS; Tara DiNitto, MD; Stephanie Bonne, MD, FACS, FCCM, FAMWA
Hosts: Avi Bhavaraju, MD, DABS, FACS, FCCM and Salina M. Wydo, MD, FACS
Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025, at 4 p.m. CT / 5 p.m. ET

view  TTP I Webinar 

Session 2: Signed, Sealed, and Successful: Mastering the Job Hunt and Contract Negotiation

Learn how to navigate the job search process and master the art of contract negotiation. This session provides actionable advice for securing your first job, negotiating compensation, and understanding key contract terms.

Speakers: Jason Smith, MD, PHD, MBA, FACS and Konstantin Khariton, DO
Hosts: Avi Bhavaraju, MD, DABS, FACS, FCCM and Salina M. Wydo, MD, FACS
Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 4 p.m. CT / 5 p.m. ET

View TTP II Webinar


Session 3: Insurance 101: Guarding Your Greatest Asset - YOU

Understand the essential insurance options for high-income earners, including disability, life, malpractice, and long-term care insurance. This session will also cover selecting the right plans and how to protect your financial future.

Date: Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 4 p.m. CT / 5 p.m. ET

Speakers: Lawrence B. Keller, CFP, CLU, ChFC, RHU, LUTCF
Hosts: Avi Bhavaraju, MD, DABS, FACS, FCCM and Salina M. Wydo, MD, FACS
Date: Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 4 p.m. CT / 5 p.m. ET


View TTP III Webinar

Session 4: Retirement & Financial Planning

Gain insights into retirement and financial planning strategies tailored to your career, including tax-saving strategies, asset protection, and retirement account options. Plus, learn how to cope with adverse events in your professional journey, from emotional impacts to medical malpractice.

Date: February 12, 2026, at 4 p.m. CT / 5 p.m. ET

Speakers: Mr. Josh Harper, CFP, CLU, ChFC, RHU, LUTCF and Mark Tucker, MD, FACS

Hosts: Avi Bhavaraju, MD, DABS, FACS, FCCM and Salina M. Wydo, MD, FACS
Date: February 12, 2026, at 4 p.m. CT / 5 p.m. ET

View ttp iv webinar


Session 5: Supporting The Healer: Building Resilient Systems for Clinician Well-Being

This session focuses on creating sustainable, supportive environments that promote the mental health, resilience, and overall well-being of healthcare professionals. This session explores strategies to reduce burnout, foster connection, and implement system-level changes that empower clinicians to thrive both personally and professionally.

Date: May 29, 2026, at 4 p.m. CT / 5 p.m. ET

Speakers: Rachel D. Appelbaum, MD, Sunil K. Geevarghese, MD, MSCI, FACS, MAMSE and Carrie Valdez, MD, FACS
Hosts: Avi Bhavaraju, MD, DABS, FACS, FCCM and Salina M. Wydo, MD, FACS
Date: May 29, 2026, at 4 p.m. CT / 5 p.m. ET

View TTP v Webinar