Do you have any preferences on a future practice being focused on either an inpatient or outpatient setting?
For a psychiatrist leaving residency training, the practice options are endless. Your interviewers pose this question as another way to learn about your future career goals in practice and how you would like to see your training path tailored during your four years with their psychiatry residency program.
"During my training, I am looking forward to being exposed to practicing in both inpatient and outpatient settings and I know your program offers ample opportunity for both. Right now, I can envision a future practice that is a majority focused on the outpatient setting and following up with patients should they be hospitalized for any reason."
Hopefully, you have put some thought into what your ideal practice looks like once you complete your psychiatry residency training. As you answer, speak openly and honestly on whether you have an interest in an outpatient or inpatient practice once you get into practice following your residency training. Keep in mind that it is also okay to be undecided at this time and you can explain to your interviewers that you are keeping an open mind during your initial years of training.
