Did a year at a community hospital about 45–50 mins from the big city, and the clincher was guaranteed OR block plus a scribe in EPIC — without that, days dragged. “Competitive salary” ; ask for a clear base, wRVU floor, and spelled-out call stipend/relocation. If you’re J1/H1B, make sure they cover premium processing and have a NC Conrad 30 path lined up; details here: https://www.ncdhhs.gov/assistance/health-care/j-1-visa-waiver-conrad-30-program — would they confirm that up front?
I learned the hard way that without ENT-specific smartphrases and a real EPIC onboarding half-day, , you’ll be chasing orders all week. Building on @Guide, push for a written OR block and scribe/MA support, but also clarify call — how often you’re making that “50 mins from Raleigh” drive at 2 a.m. matters more than the vague “competitive salary.” For J1/H1B, confirm they cover premium processing and attorney fees up front or it’s a headache.
Make sure there’s on-site audiology and quick CT access; without that, you’re a one‑man band chasing hearing tests. Ask about sinus navigation and a clinic microscope, and who owns epistaxis/trach call — those two decide your week more than the EMR. I’d bite if those are in place, @Guide; otherwise it’s a hard sell.