Mentoring is widely established as a means of professional development. The term originates from the Greek language and translates as “enduring.” In Greek mythology, upon embarking on an epic voyage for the Trojan War, Odysseus entrusted his son Telemachus to the care and direction of his trusted friend, Mentor, who was regarded as a wise counselor.
Research in academic medicine, law, business, and nursing has shown that mentoring leads to higher levels of career satisfaction and a higher rate of promotion. This effect is also greater if it begins early in a person's career. Mentoring in private practice anesthesiology groups is not as well described in the literature as mentoring in an academic practice. However, it exists in many forms and serves many purposes.
Mentoring serves as an opportunity for the private practice group to introduce new physicians to the culture and unique aspects of the practice while providing a...
