The Exit Strategy: Preparing for Retirement.

Retiring from any occupation is difficult, especially one that you love. The majority of cardiothoracic surgeons love what they do every day. It has been said that if you choose a job you love, you never have to work another day in your life. Once a date is determined, preparation, particularly financial, is paramount for a successful outcome. Thoughtful decisions need to be made regarding health benefits and retirement plans [401(k)/403(b)]. Transitions to retirement programs have been instituted in several schools of medicine. Establishing an academy for retired faculty can be an enriching experience for the members and a resource for the institution.