Why Practice in Montana?

Not all states present equal opportunity for employees, and when it comes to psychiatrist jobs, it's no different.

According to Wallethub, "Montana is the best state for doctors, and it boasts one of the top hospital systems in the country. Nearly 82% of patients in Montana gave their hospital a score of 9 or 10 on a scale of 0 to 10. Montana doctors are also well compensated. For example, the state has the one of the highest average incomes for anesthesiologists, at nearly $372,000, in addition to high yearly incomes for psychiatrists and surgeons, who earn above $260,000 and almost $400,000 on average, respectively." 

According to WalletHub, "The Treasure State is also good on doctors’ mental well-being, as it has the lowest physician burnout rate. That bodes well for medical residents who train in Montana, as nearly 63% of them end up staying in-state, the second-highest retention rate in the country. Additionally, Montana enjoys both a high number of hospitals per 100,000 residents and physician assistants per 1,000 residents." 

In Medscape's Best & Worst Places to Practice 2018 report, physicians were surveyed to determine the most and least favorable states for practice based on key factors such as average population lifespan, cost of living, educational attainment, median earnings, unemployment rates, tax burden, public health statistics, and overall personal well-being. Montana ranked lowest of all 50 states!

Montana is among the states that do not require physicians to carry a minimum amount of medical malpractice insurance.

According to Gallagher, "Montana has a strong market for medical malpractice insurance. Costs are kept down by tort reform, which is designed to prevent unnecessary legal action and increased litigation and insurance costs. In addition, Montana has a number of medical malpractice insurance providers. This environment of competition has helped keep Montana's medical malpractice insurance rates lower, on average, than the rest of the country."

 Montana has long maintained a strong stance against non-compete agreements. Under Montana Code Annotated § 28-2-703, any contract that restrains someone from engaging in a lawful profession, trade, or business is generally void, with limited exceptions. This means that, in most cases, employees in Montana are not bound by non-compete clauses and can change employers without the need to relocate their families.

Many job opportunities in Montana offer attractive loan repayment options to help alleviate educational debt. The Montana State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP) is an incentive for primary care providers working at approved National Health Service Corps (NHSC) or Montana SLRP sites in designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA).  

In addition, the Montana Rural Physician Incentive Program (MRPIP) helps pay educational debts for physicians serving in rural or underserved areas. This program, along with other repayment options, ensures that you can focus on what matters most—helping those in need. 

Make a Real Impact—Practice Psychiatry in Montana
Montana has the second-highest suicide rate in the country and ranks third-lowest in the nation for psychiatrists per capita. The need for mental health professionals is urgent, and your expertise can make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.

If you’re ready to transform lives and address critical mental health challenges, Montana offers both professional fulfillment and exceptional quality of life.

Montana is home to an incredible network of engaged and supportive psychiatrists who work together to enhance the mental health landscape of the state. As part of this community, you’ll have access to various professional organizations and events that foster collaboration, education, and support.

• Montana Psychiatric Association (MPA): MPA is a key organization for psychiatrists in Montana, providing advocacy, education, and a sense of community for professionals across the state. They work to promote high standards of care, reduce stigma, and address the unique needs of psychiatrists practicing in rural and underserved areas.
• Montana Association of Pediatric Psychiatrists (MAPP):   MAPP is the professional organization of child and adolescent psychiatrists in Montana. The purpose of MAPP is to assist its members in pursuing professional development, utilizing evidenced-based practices, organizing mentorship opportunities and developing regional standards of care.  

Montana is home to an incredible network of engaged and supportive psychiatrists who work together to enhance the mental health landscape of the state. As part of this community, you’ll have access to various professional organizations and events that foster collaboration, education, and support.

• Spring Wing Ding: A well-loved annual event where Montana psychiatrists gather for a fun and relaxed atmosphere. This is the spring meeting of the MPA and MAPP. The purpose of this meeting is to support and promote fellowship among Montana and regional psychiatrists and discuss pressing mental health needs within our state and region.
• Montana Psychiatry Conference: This conference serves as a central event for continuing education in the field of psychiatry. It brings together experts, thought leaders, and practitioners to discuss the latest advancements in mental health care, share research, and enhance clinical practice.

Live where adventure is just outside your door. Montana offers world-class recreation year-round, including:

• Mountain biking, road biking, and off-roading
   
• Snowmobiling and skiing at Big Sky Resort and Whitefish Mountain—two of North America's top destinations
   
• Hiking, mountain climbing, and scenic highway road trips
   
• Boating, kayaking, fishing, and hunting
   
• Easy access to Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, plus countless state parks and public lands

Enjoy a lifestyle where nature, wellness, and exploration are part of your daily routine.

Montana is known for its strong sense of community, fostered by the state's rural and close-knit nature. In many communities, residents know their neighbors and are invested in the well-being of their local area. The state has a history of self-reliance and independence, with many communities coming together to support each other in times of need.

Montana's sense of community is also reflected in its many festivals and events, which bring residents together to celebrate their local traditions and culture. These events may include rodeos, county fairs, and community gatherings, where residents can come together to enjoy food, music, and each other's company.

Despite Montana's rural nature, the state also has a growing urban population, particularly in cities like Billings and Missoula. Even in these urban areas, there is a strong sense of community.

Montana's culture and diversity are shaped by its history and geography. The state has a rich Native American heritage, with 12 tribal nations calling Montana home. The state also has a strong ranching and agricultural tradition, as well as a legacy of mining and natural resource extraction. 

Montana's culture is also influenced by its geography, with the state's vast wilderness and stunning natural beauty inspiring a love of outdoor recreation and a deep respect for the environment.

The state's western frontier history has also contributed to a culture of independence and self-reliance. 

Montana's culture and diversity are also reflected in its arts and entertainment scene. The state has a vibrant music scene, with genres ranging from country and bluegrass to indie and alternative.

Looking for a healthy and happy place to live? 

Montana residents enjoy an exceptionally healthy lifestyle. Fresh air, an abundance of healthy food, and numerous physical activities have all contributed to the Treasure State’s healthy habits. According to the State of Obesity, Montana has the seventh lowest adult obesity rate in the nation and the ninth lowest obesity rate for youth. U.S News ranked Montana as 22nd for healthcare quality and 13th for quality of life. CNBC also ranked Montana as tenth for overall well-being, stating that places with “high rates of purpose, social, financial, community and physical well-being — tend to live happier, healthier lives.”