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Physician Cover Letter Example (W/ Templates & Tips for 2024)

You've come a long way since those early days of anatomy sketches and late-night study sessions.

Since your first introduction to medicine, your passion for healing and caring for others has only grown. Now, you're on the precipice of turning years of rigorous study and training into a fulfilling career as a physician.

There's just one hiccup; drafting that perfect cover letter seems more daunting than any diagnosis you've ever made.

That blank document staring back at you, waiting to summarize your entire medical journey and passion in a few paragraphs, feels oddly reminiscent of a challenging patient case. 

But there’s good news!

In this article, we'll teach you all you need to know to write a compelling physician cover letter without breaking a sweat.

Here’s what we’ll cover: 

• What Makes an Outstanding Physician Cover Letter Example
• 5 Steps to Crafting the Perfect Physician Cover Letter
• 3 Must-Know Cover Letter Tips for Aspiring Physicians

...and more!

Physician Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Physician Cover Letter

Alright, you've just had a glimpse of what a job-winning cover letter looks like. Now. it’s time to write your own . 

Just follow these steps, and you'll be on point:

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

Start your cover letter by listing your contact details. You'll want to position these details at the top of your cover letter, just like you would in your resume .

Here's the rundown on what to showcase:

• Full Name: You should list your full name at the very beginning. 
• Professional Title: Tailor the title on your cover letter to reflect the specific physician position you're aiming for. Given the diverse roles in the medical field, being precise about your specialization or the exact role makes things easier for the hiring team.
• Email Address: Opt for a straightforward and professional email. Those fun emails from back in the day won't fit the bill. For instance, while "[email protected]" might be memorable, it's better to go with something like "[email protected]." 
• Phone Number: List a number that you use and make sure all digits are correct. If you're casting your net internationally, don't forget the appropriate dial code.  
• Location: Simply noting your city and state or country should suffice. However, if you're open to relocation or applying for a telemedicine role, say so.  
• Relevant Links (Optional): Feel free to include any important websites, publications, or platforms, such as a LinkedIn profile .

With your information set, it's now time to add the hiring manager's information.

Here's your checklist:

• Medical Institution's Name: Note down the name of the hospital, clinic, or healthcare facility you're reaching out to. 
• Hiring Manager’s Name: If you can, pinpoint the name of the hiring manager or head of the department. A quick scan of the job listing, the institution's website, or LinkedIn could give you this insight.
• Hiring Manager’s Title: If you've identified a specific person, use their exact role or title. For example, "Chief of Surgery" is more precise than just "Hiring Manager."
• Location: List the city, state, or country, particularly for healthcare organizations with multiple branches. You could add the specific address if you wish.
• Email Address (Optional): If available, adding the hiring manager’s email can be a nice addition.  
• Date of Writing (Optional): For a final touch of professionalism, you can note down the date you penned your cover letter.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've jotted down your essential contact details , it’s time to address your cover letter to its intended audience.

A heads up: the age-old “To Whom It May Concern” is a tad out of style these days.

Your cover letter's opening line should set the ground for what’s to come, which means it should be well thought out and professional. 

First, pull out your detective hat. Dig into the job ad, sift through the hospital or clinic's website, or even look at their LinkedIn page. Your goal is to identify the chief physician or department head responsible for the role you're after.

When it comes to addressing them , a touch of formality works wonders. Leading with "Dr.", followed by their last name is classic. But if you're in the dark about their exact title, opt for their entire name. Here's a glimpse:

• Dear Dr. Williams,
• Dear Jordan Williams,

Now, if the name of the hiring manager or head of the department remains a mystery even after you search, don't fret! Address your letter to the broader medical team or the institution at large:

• Dear Medical Staff,
• Dear Physician Recruitment Team,
• Dear Human Resources Healthcare Division,
• Dear Head of Medicine,

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

With so many applications to consider, hiring managers typically spend only a few seconds deciding whether a candidate’s cover letter is worth reading. 

So, you can probably imagine how important it is to make a great first impression with your opening paragraph. 

Begin by introducing yourself and explicitly stating your enthusiasm for the position. Demonstrating your genuine interest in medicine and the specific role can genuinely intrigue those on the hiring end.

A dash of research about the healthcare institution or clinic can also help your case. The more informed you are, the better you can underscore how seamlessly you'd fit into their culture. This proactive approach signals to the hiring manager or committee that your application isn't just another tick on a long list, but a thought-out decision based on genuine interest.

Depending on your medical experience, consider starting off with a standout accomplishment or pinpointing one or two top skills that make you ideal for the role in question.

However, remember that brevity is the soul of wit. Your aim is to spark their interest, nudging them to read the rest of your cover letter without overwhelming them with details right off the bat.

Make sure to avoid these common cover letter mistakes to make your cover letter impeccable. 

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The body of your physician cover letter is where you can and should elaborate on the specifics of what makes you an exceptional candidate for the medical position.

Remember, it's essential not to merely repeat what's on your resume. This section provides an opportunity to truly emphasize your medical expertise and qualifications. Your primary goal is to persuade the hiring manager that, amidst all the candidates, you stand out for this role. 

Hence, bring up any accomplishments related to medicine that you may have listed on your resume and give the hiring manager more information about how you achieved them, what methods you followed, and what positive results they brought to your patients.

Additionally, tailor your cover letter by highlighting particular skills or experiences that the hospital or clinic mentions in their job description. For instance, if the role emphasizes expertise in pediatric care, focus on that rather than, say, your surgical experiences.

Demonstrating your understanding of the healthcare facility, its patient demographics, or its specialized services can significantly boost your appeal. If you're familiar with the hospital's recent research publications or their community outreach programs, highlight that knowledge in your cover letter. This shows you fit perfectly with their objectives and organizational culture.

Lastly, don't hold back on your passion. Let your enthusiasm for the role shine through, underscoring your eagerness to bring value to the institution with your distinct medical skills and insights.

If you want to get even more inspired, check out our cover letter examples in this article.

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Concluding your cover letter effectively is the final touch to presenting yourself as the ideal candidate.

Your concluding remarks should leave the hiring committee with a positive impression and reiterate the compelling points you've made throughout your letter.

This is your chance to clearly summarize and emphasize your clinical skills, experiences, or any unique medical training that sets you apart from all the competition.

Next, include a call to action, gently urging the hiring committee or medical director to delve deeper into your qualifications or to schedule a further discussion. By doing so, you not only demonstrate your genuine interest in the role but also improve your chances of advancing to the next stage of the hiring process — the coveted job interview .

Finally, select a sign-off that aligns with the formal tone of the medical industry, followed by your full name. An example would be:

I would be grateful for an opportunity to discuss how my medical experience and vision align with the values and goals of your institution. Please feel free to reach out at the given email or contact number to schedule a conversation.

Dr. Jane Smith

If you find "Sincerely" to be commonplace, you can choose one of the following alternatives:

• With appreciation,
• Best regards,
• Thank you for your time and consideration,

3 Essential Physician Cover Letter Tips

You've got the fundamentals of cover letter writing down. Now, let's bring your game up a notch with some expert cover letter tips tailored for aspiring physicians:

#1. Match Your Resume

If you really want to land that physician position, you need to do a bit more than carefully craft the contents of your cover letter. Instead, your entire job application should be in harmony, both visually and content-wise. 

Your cover letter and physician resume should match each other, otherwise, you might come off as unorganized and unattentive to detail. 

As you can imagine, no one will want to hire a physician who’s both of those things. 

The text along with your contact details should be neatly arranged on the page, and the font styles and sizes should remain consistent throughout both documents. Additionally, pay attention to the margins and line spacing, so that your cover letter doesn’t spill over to page two. Hiring managers want a snapshot of your career, not your professional novel. 

Ready to nail it? 

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

As a physician, you likely have a lot of other things to be doing than making sure your cover letter and resume look good next to each other. 

So why not make things easier for yourself? 

It's as simple as using one of our cover letter templates . Together with our free resume builder, they can be the answer to all of your problems. 

Designed in collaboration with hiring managers worldwide, you're guaranteed a match for your resume that meets all industry standards while looking professional and stylish. Our templates are not just time savers; they look great and do the job impressively!

#2. Be Enthusiastic 

A crucial ingredient in creating an effective cover letter is enthusiasm. This doesn't mean you should be overflowing with praise for the company you're applying to. Instead, emphasizing your zeal for the medical field and demonstrating a positive attitude throughout your application process could make the right impression.

Crafting a cover letter filled with enthusiasm shows your passion and dedication to the field of medicine. Hiring managers tend to gravitate towards candidates who are not only qualified but are also enthusiastic about the work they’re going to do.

Enthusiasm can also show your earnestness and willingness to contribute to the healthcare community. Positivity can set you apart from other candidates who take a colder approach.

That said, it's equally important to not get carried away, or you run the risk of appearing overconfident. While you want to showcase your contributions and potential, excessive self-praise or company flattery could backfire.

The cover letter is not a platform to brag about your accomplishments. Instead, it should offer a balanced view of your qualifications, experience, and work ethic. Pay attention to the fine line between confidence and arrogance.

So use your cover letter as an opportunity to convey your genuine excitement for the profession. When presented appropriately, your positivity and passion could open doors to your dream physician job.

#3. Be Formal

Another key aspect to remember when crafting your cover letter is maintaining a formal tone. But keep in mind that formal doesn't mean stiff or distant; it's more about being respectful and professional while communicating your thoughts.

Adopting a formal tone shows employers your understanding of, and adherence to, professional norms. This sends a clear message: that you take your job application seriously. It demonstrates a commitment to securing the job and respect for the opportunity at hand.

Make sure that you don’t overdo it, though. You don’t want your cover letter to be too rigid or impersonal. Employers are not just seeking a skilled physician but also a person who is approachable and can effectively communicate and connect with their team and patients. 

So, while it's important to be professional, it's equally necessary to be personable, keeping a conversational tone that resonates with the reader.

Striking this balance is where the real art lies. It's about giving the employer a visually clear and respected format, but filled with content that's warm and engaging. This will leave a lasting impression and could potentially give you an edge in the hiring process. So aim for that sweet spot - a cover letter that's professional, yet approachable, warm, yet respectful. Get this right, and you're one step closer to clinching that physician job.

Key Takeaways

You're now well-equipped to craft a top-notch physician cover letter!

With the insights shared, you should be ready to embark on your journey to land that dream physician role.

Here are the main points to remember:

• Ensure your cover letter and resume have a unified and professional appearance. Utilizing an online resume builder and selecting a corresponding cover letter template can streamline this process.
• Begin your physician cover letter by introducing yourself and the purpose of your letter. Then, highlight a unique skill or qualification that sets you apart.
• Use the main section of your cover letter to elaborate on your merits as a candidate. Discuss key achievements and provide context for any aspects not fully explained in your resume, like employment breaks.
• Double-check the contact details you provide. Any error in your phone number or email might cost you an interview opportunity.

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Physician Cover Letters: Why Writing a Good One Is As Important As Ever

Career resources content posted on NEJM CareerCenter is produced by freelance health care writers as an advertising service of NEJM Group, a division of the Massachusetts Medical Society and should not be construed as coming from, or representing the views of, the New England Journal of Medicine , NEJM Group, or the Massachusetts Medical Society

Physicians seeking a practice opportunity might think of the cover letter as an old-fashioned, generally unimportant component of their application for or expression of interest in a position, but that is not the case. In this digital age of clipped, often rapid-fire communications, the cover letter has become more important than ever because it offers a way to differentiate the physician from other candidates. It provides a vehicle for sharing personal and professional information that might be important to prospective employers but doesn’t quite fit in the CV. The cover letter should be brief, well written, professional and positive in tone, and absolutely error-free. It should also give the recipient the sense that the physician has researched the opportunity or organization before writing the letter.

By Bonnie Darves

When a physician encounters the seemingly perfect practice opportunity — with a mid-sized group in their hometown that is affiliated with a health system that has an excellent reputation — it’s tempting to quickly compose the requested cover letter to accompany her CV and send it off.

Yes, it is smart to express interest in a desirable position as soon as possible, but it’s not prudent to view the cover letter as a mere formality. Today, when so much communication between physicians and recruiters or prospective employers is electronic — in either brief email responses or via online forms — the cover letter has become increasingly important. Here’s why: The carefully crafted letter offers an opportunity to differentiate the resident or fellow from other physicians who respond, and a chance to demonstrate highly personalized interest in the position.

“The cover letter’s value is certainly not decreasing in the digital age. Because it is usually the second contact physicians have with an organization, it is very important,” said James Tysinger, PhD, vice chair for professional development in the University of Texas Health Science Center department of family and community medicine in San Antonio. “It is your opportunity to include something about who you are, and to provide information that won’t be in your CV about why the position and the geographic location interest you.” For the resident seeking a fellowship, the letter is the ideal vehicle to convey to the program director that the physician has researched the program’s focus and reputation, he added.

Longtime recruiter Regina Levison, president of the national firm Levison Search Associates, agrees that the geographic preference statement is a vital piece of information that should appear early in the letter. “The geographic ‘connection’ to the opportunity’s location is the most important message you can include — whether it’s because you grew up there, have relatives in the region, or simply have always dreamed of living or working there,” Ms. Levison said. “Health care organizations today are not just recruiting to fill a specific opportunity; they are recruiting for retention.” As the health care delivery system changes to incorporate accountable care organizations and quality focused reimbursement, organizations are seeking physicians who will “stay around” to help meet long-term organizational objectives.

Craig Fowler, president of the National Association of Physician Recruiters (NAPR), and vice president of recruiting and training for Pinnacle Health Group in Atlanta, urges residents to include at least an introductory cover letter or note with their CV, even when it’s not requested. In his experience, 8 out of 10 physicians who express initial interest in a position don’t take the effort to write a letter unless asked.

“The cover letter really is a differentiator, and even though a recruiter will always look at your CV first, the letter is nice to have. I often feel that it gives me a sense of the physician — a good letter can make the physician come to life,” Mr. Fowler said. He enjoys, for example, learning about the physician’s personal interests and family, in addition to what he seeks in a practice opportunity.

Peter Cebulka, director of recruiting development for the national firm Merritt Hawkins, agrees that the cover letter can provide information that isn’t appropriate in a CV but could be important to a hiring organization. “The letter gives you a chance to talk about your professional goals, or why you’re committed to a particular area or practice setting,” Mr. Cebulka said. It can also highlight something compelling about the physician’s residency program that the recipient might not know.

If there are gaps in the CV that are not sensitive in nature, and therefore don’t require a phone conversation, that information should be included in the letter. “It’s important to briefly explain gaps because your application might be passed over if you don’t,” Mr. Fowler said.

Jim Stone, co-founder and president of The Medicus Firm, a national physician search company, offers helpful guidance on incorporating a career objective in the cover letter. “You may want to include a career objective or job search goals, but be careful not to be too specific or you may rule yourself out of consideration,” he advised. “Therefore, if there is one goal that really sums up your search, or some objective that is a must-have for you under any circumstances, it would be okay to include that.”

On another note, Mr. Stone urges physicians to include brief examples of any soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, technological aptitude, leadership, or problem solving.

Format and structure: short and targeted works While there are no rules per se about a cover letter’s length or content, there are general guidelines for what works best and is likely to be well received. (See “Cover letters: What to do, what to avoid” section at the end of this article.) Dr. Tysinger, who counsels residents and practicing physicians on preparing CVs and cover letters, and frequently presents on the topic, recommends a single-page, three-paragraph format delivered in a professional, business letter layout, in simple language. Following is his basic guidance on the letter’s structure:

• First paragraph: Introduce yourself and state why you are writing — whether that is to be considered for a specific position, to express general interest in joining the organization, or the recommendation of a colleague.
• Second paragraph: Provide brief details about yourself and why you are interested in the opportunity and the location. Note any professional connections to the opportunity or organization, and any special skills or interests, such as management or teaching.
• Third paragraph: Thank the recipient for the opportunity to apply and for reviewing your CV, and end the letter with a statement indicating that you look forward to hearing from the recipient soon.

Other sources agreed that cover letters should not exceed one page, unless special circumstances dictate an extra paragraph or two. In that case, a two-page letter is acceptable. Ms. Levison advised briefly summarizing education and training in the second paragraph, and if it’s the physician’s first opportunity search, stating briefly why he became a physician.

It’s best to avoid going into extensive detail about personal interests or extracurricular pursuits. That could give the recipient the impression that the physician is more concerned about lifestyle than medical practice.

Professional tone, error-free content are musts It should go without saying that the cover letter must be professionally written and free of spelling or grammatical errors, but unfortunately, that’s not always the case. All of the recruiters interviewed for this article have received cover letters that are poorly written or, in some cases, replete with misspellings; all agreed that an error-riddled letter could prevent its writer from being considered for an opportunity regardless of her or his qualifications.

Of course, word processing programs include spell-checkers and, usually, some grammar-checking functionality. That’s helpful, but it isn’t sufficient vetting to ensure the letter is in excellent shape. Because of the letter’s potential importance, physicians should have several trusted individuals — on the professional and personal side — review the document, including a professional editor, if warranted. “If writing isn’t your strong suit, or English isn’t your first language, do get professional advice before you finalize the letter,” Mr. Cebulka recommends.

Ms. Levinson offers pointed advice regarding double-checking for errors. “Are there any typos or mistakes that would make the new organization question your ability to keep accurate records?” she said. It’s worth noting that some recruiting firms offer assistance with cover letter writing, but it’s best not to count on that service.

Striking the right tone in the cover letter can be somewhat challenging when the resident doesn’t have a good sense of the organization offering the opportunity. Some hospitals or groups are very formal, and therefore expect to receive formal communication. Others might be somewhat casual, from the standpoint of their culture, and therefore less inclined to bring in a physician who comes across as stiff, even if she isn’t. For these reasons, it’s smart to research the hiring entity to the extent possible before finishing the letter. The group’s website or the health system’s physician portal are good starting places to gauge the culture, but a discussion with a physician who practices there, happily, also can be helpful.

Ideally, the letter’s tone should be professional but friendly, and should sound like its writer, and not like a cookie-cutter form letter. “The letter should be professional and warm, and the tone should also reflect how you would communicate with patients and staff,” Ms. Levison said.

“A little colloquialism is OK, if it shows your personality,” Mr. Fowler maintains, provided the overall tone remains professional.

The sources concurred that the cover letter is not the forum for including a laundry list of the physician’s position parameters, or for negotiating compensation or other potential contract terms. Physicians in a highly recruited specialty might mention required equipment or infrastructure, if the lack of those items would preclude further discussion. But for the most part, those specifics should be left for an on-site interview.

“If the parameter is a potential deal-breaker, you can mention it, but avoid sounding inflexible,” Mr. Cebulka advised. That means not setting limits on the amount of call, or number of night shifts or weekends, for example. Those details can be discussed and possibly negotiated later.

Very important parameters should, however, be provided to the recruiter outside the context of the cover letter if such detail is requested. That’s especially important if the recruiter will introduce the physician to multiple opportunities.

“If you’re in a highly recruited specialty, there will be plenty of opportunities. But it’s helpful for recruiters to know what you’re absolutely looking for, so that you don’t waste your time or theirs,” Mr. Cebulka said.

Cover letters: What to do, what to avoid The sources who contributed to this article offered these additional tips on what physicians should do, or not do, when they craft their cover letters.

• Address the cover letter to an individual physician, practice administrator, recruiter, or other individual as the situation warrants, and not “to whom it may concern.”
• Be upbeat and positive. Ensure that the letter’s tone reflects your excitement about medicine, and that it reflects the way you would speak in an in-person interview.
• Include letters of reference with the cover letter if you’re looking for a fellowship or are formally applying for a specific position.
• Close the letter with a call to action if it’s an ideal opportunity (and likely a popular one). Let the recipient know that you will call in a few days to follow up, and indicate when you would be available to meet in person. It doesn’t hurt to state the best ways to reach you.
• Don’t sound desperate or beg for the job, even if it’s the perfect opportunity or you are worried about securing a position.
• Steer clear of “selling” yourself or making claims about why you would be the absolute best candidate. Instead, let your credentials and references make the case for you.
• Avoid sarcasm in any context, and generally steer clear of humor, unless you know the person to whom the letter is addressed very well.
• Don’t disparage individuals, programs, or institutions if you have had a negative experience somewhere — regardless of the reason.

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Doctor cover letter example

Cover letter greeting

Cover letter middle part (body), how to close a doctor cover letter (conclusion and sign off).

If you’re a physician who can write 10 to 15 prescriptions a day, then trust us — you can write a one-page doctor cover letter to get the job you really want. Just don’t do it in your own handwriting!

Doctors are commonly thought of as occupying the top of the pyramid of career aspirations. And rightfully so, as there is perhaps no profession that requires so many years of postgraduate study and subsequent hands-on training before they’re considered full-fledged practitioners. 

And yet, despite being able to write a 3,000-word article for the New England Journal of Medicine without batting an eye, many of these same learned professionals would find it extremely challenging to write a one-page cover letter in plain English in order to get a better job.

This writing guide, along with the adaptable wording it provides from a doctor cover letter example, will offer an overview of everything a physician needs to know to write a succinct, persuasive and successful cover letter to accompany that stellar resume.

What we’ll discuss here:

• The best format for a doctor cover letter
• Step-by-step advice for ensuring each of the six cover letter sections has an optimal impact
• Common cover letter writing  mistakes to avoid

Let’s scrub in and get started!

Resume.io is a resource for professionals in all fields and of all experience levels. Check out our 180+ free cover letter samples for even more useful writing tips and practical advice.

 If you’d like some additional inspiration before creating your doctor cover letter, review some of our related medical cover letter samples:

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Best format for a doctor cover letter

Choosing the best format for a doctor cover letter involves issues of structure, design and layout. Let’s first look at the “skeleton” — the underlying structure and framework — before we add flesh to the bones.

We’ve heard of doctors compiling academic CVs (which are sort of like resumes on steroids) that can be 80 pages long! Well, sorry, but here you’re going to learn how to write something that’s ONE page long. And your correspondents will thank you for it. 

Is it ever acceptable to write a cover letter that’s longer than one page? Sure, in some cases. But the tried-and-true rule is that a one-page cover letter will never be considered too short, and it’s the safest option. 

Here are the essential elements of every cover letter:

• Header with contact info
• Introduction
• Sign-off and signature

That’s the “skeleton,” the basic structure. Other format considerations involve design and layout — making your letter look as good as it reads. There are many decisions to make that will affect the look of your cover letter, including fonts, font sizes, text alignment, paragraph styles, margins, spacing, visual balance and use of white space.  

Our pre-designed cover letter templates have already addressed all the design issues mentioned above. Nothing could be easier than using a template along our builder tool, leaving you with just one job: Write the letter!

Here is exactly how you can write a cover letter that will stand out from the crowd, and help you land that interview.

Below is a doctor cover letter example that you can customize for the position and hiring organization.

Dear Dr. Madeley, 

Having worked as a family doctor in two general practices over the past three decades, I have cared for multiple generations of patients and become an additional “member of the family” in many cases. Your job description for the position being filled emphasizes the close-knit nature of The Medical Care Company’s patient base. From experience, I recognize that in a small-town medical practice such as yours, the level of trust that team members earn in the course of their work cannot be underestimated.

Seeing an average of 25 patients a day over such a long period has found me dealing with some of the rarest medical situations, while also exploring innovative treatment options for some of the most common cases. I know that heart disease, obesity and strokes are particularly frequent in your community. In my last practice, a mix of education and proactive medical interventions helped to reduce heart issues by 45% and obesity rates by 20%. Helping patients to understand what they are doing to their bodies was a contributing factor.

I have taken time out from general practice on two occasions to undertake year-long work experience secondments in a local hospital. These experiences were instrumental in enhancing my knowledge and capacity to provide optimal medical care to patients.

The age profile of my previous patients is consistent with the make-up of your community: many young families and a higher-than-normal proportion of elderly care home residents. I have therefore focused mainly on delivering high-quality care to both pediatric and geriatric patients.

I enclose some references from colleagues and previous patients as a testament to my medical expertise. It would be my pleasure to discuss the opening at your clinic during an interview..

Sincerely, 

Alison Wayde

Cover letter header

The cover letter header (which used to be called a letterhead, very common in doctor’s offices) is the attractively designed space at the top of the page, or sometimes down one side. Either way, it's meant to be noticed first. The header contains your name, occupation, address, phone number, email, possibly your photo, and perhaps your LinkedIn profile or another website that showcases your professional credentials. 

It would be a major oversight if you wrote the perfect cover letter but forgot to include any information on how to reach you. That’s why you need a header. 

But in addition, the header is an important design element that serves the additional purpose of giving your letter an eye-pleasing look. Good header design involves creative use of typography, spacing, layout and often a splash of color. Make the most of it, because everything below the header will be solid black chunks of text.

Again, we encourage you to check our professionally designed cover letters, find a header you like and make it your own. Will Rogers said, “Everybody is ignorant, only on different subjects.” We don’t expect doctors to know how to design cover letter headers, and we hope doctors don’t expect us to know how to remove tonsils.

Goal of the cover letter header: Set your job application apart in an eye-pleasing manner that makes the identifying information stand out and makes the letter look more inviting to read.

The cover letter greeting, also known as a salutation, is the line that usually starts with the word “Dear,” followed by “Mr.”, “Ms.”, or “Dr.”, the recipient’s last name, and then a colon or comma.

There are acceptable variants to the word “Dear,” but let’s not overthink this. “Dear Dr. Singh: ” would be a flawless cover letting greeting, assuming you’ve got the right person and spelled the name right. You could experiment with “Greetings Dr. Singh,” or even “Hello Sanjay,” (if you happen to know this person). But as in medicine, so in cover letters: There are risks in venturing too far from proven successes. 

It’s highly recommended that you find out the name of the person who is processing applications for the job you’re seeking. If it’s not mentioned in the job listing, and you can’t find it online, consider the old-fashioned sleuthing tactic of just calling up the company and asking.

Failing that, address your cover letter to a position or search committee team, such as: "Dear XYZ Hospital Medical Director" or "Dear Cardiologist Search Committee." 

Never use these generic greetings in your cover letter: " To Whom It May Concern " or " Dear Sir or Madam. " Both are off-putting because they sound cold, impersonal and old-fashioned.

Goal of the cover letter greeting: Form a direct, immediate connection with the employer that’s personalized to the extent possible. 

Cover letter introduction

Your cover letter introduction should be a compelling, intriguing, fascinating first paragraph that makes it almost impossible for the recipient to stop reading. No pressure!

Your introduction needs to accomplish a couple of objectives: Make it clear what job you’re seeking, and make a persuasive opening case that you’re the ideal candidate for this job. It doesn’t have to provide all the facts yet, but it should let the reader know that you have the goods in the bag.

Goal of the cover letter introduction: Make an up-front case for being the best hiring remedy, as a doctor with well-matched qualifications and personal attributes.

This excerpt from our doctor cover letter sample can serve as a model for your greeting and introduction:

The cover letter body, the middle sections, are where you need to do the heavy lifting that makes the case that the employer you’re writing to needs you on its team. 

If your biggest selling point is your years of experience in medicine, go big with your experience. If you’re young but you just graduated in flying colors from the Columbia University medical school, lead with that. Nobody knows you better than you, so find a way to accentuate your most impressive qualifications for the job you want.

In describing your experience, be specific, using facts and figures wherever possible. And try to include at least one anecdote, a short little story where you relate how you once faced a vexing job-related problem and managed to resolve it to everyone’s satisfaction.

It’s always a good idea to mention the name of the company where you’re seeking employment, and if possible to explain specifically how you think your contribution could make this company more efficient, successful and profitable.

Goal of the cover letter body: Reflect on your most relevant and compelling accomplishments to convey how this employer would benefit from your contributions as a committed, solution-focused medical team member.

Here’s the body section from our doctor cover letter sample:

In your final paragraph, the cover letter conclusion, wrap up pleasantly but also include some kind of “call to action” to your correspondent. You can say you look forward eagerly to a reply. You might mention that you would be delighted to show up for an interview, in person or remotely. Plant the thought that the recipient of your letter should get back to you and not just “sit on” your letter.

Close your cover letter with a simple “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” “Thank you for your time” or an equivalent phrase. Add a space below that and then type your full name. 

If you’re planning to send a hard copy, you need to provide an actual signature between the sign-off and your typed name, but this is not necessary in electronic correspondence. 

Goal of the cover letter closing: End on an confident, enthusiastic note with a call to action that implies you expect to hear back from the employer.

Check out the conclusion from our doctor cover letter sample:

Common mistakes to avoid

Here are some common mistakes that people make in writing cover letters:

• Typos and other errors in spelling, grammar or punctuation. You can’t afford any writing mistakes in a one-page letter.
• Mass-produced, one-size-fits-all letters: Each cover letter should be tailored to address the needs of each prospective employer.
• Cliches, HR-speak and “fluff”: Use fresh, original, meaningful language that you haven’t borrowed from somewhere else.
• Irrelevant material: Any language that doesn’t help convince an employer that you’re the right person for the job should be deleted.

Key takeaways

• In almost all cases, a cover letter should be one page only, so trim the fat and keep the lean.
• You must include the six essential elements of a cover letter: header, greeting, introduction, body, conclusion and sign-off/signature.
• Your letter should look as good as it reads, so pay close attention to the design, layout and overall visual impression.
• Use a professional cover letter template to sidestep common design errors so you can focus on just writing the letter.

Now that you’ve reached the end of this guide, we hope you’ll see that writing a great doctor cover letter is far simpler than open heart surgery.

Free professionally designed templates

Professional Doctor Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your doctor cover letter must immediately highlight your relevant clinical experience. Showcase your expertise matching the specialty of the job you're applying for. Demonstrate your commitment to patient care with concrete examples. Connect your professional values to the missions and goals of the institution.

Cover Letter Guide

Doctor Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Doctor Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Embarking on your job hunt, you've likely discovered that crafting a doctor cover letter is pivotal. However, this document can stump many with its purpose: not merely echoing your resume, but eloquently highlighting a professional pinnacle that defines you. Striking a balance between formality and freshness, while avoiding clichés, can be tough. Remember, brevity is key — your impactful narrative should captivate but never exceed one page. Let's navigate these challenges to ensure your cover letter stands out.

• Personalize your doctor cover letter and get inspired by other professionals to tell a compelling story;
• Format and design your doctor cover letter to make an excellent first impression;
• Introduce your best achievement in your doctor cover letter to recruiters;
• How to make sure recruiters get in touch with you, using your doctor cover letter greeting and closing paragraphs.

What is more, did you know that Enhancv's AI can write your cover letter for you? Just upload your doctor resume and get ready to forward your job application in a flash.

If the doctor isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Doctor resume guide and example
• Professional Nurse cover letter example
• Therapist cover letter example
• Occupational Health Nurse cover letter example
• Nursing Home Social Worker cover letter example
• Medical Assistant cover letter example
• Psychologist cover letter example
• Medical Technologist cover letter example
• In Home Caregiver cover letter example
• Pediatric Dental Assistant cover letter example
• Company Nurse cover letter example

Doctor cover letter example

Lucas Rodriguez

Charlotte, NC

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Emphasizing the alignment of personal practice with the institution's mission and innovative approaches enhances the relevance of the candidate's experience to the role.
• Providing concrete outcomes, such as the reduction in wait times by 20% and enhancing diagnostic accuracy by 15% through specific projects, showcases the candidate's impact and effectiveness in their past roles.
• Discussing the direct experience with relevant technologies, like telemedicine and AI diagnostics tools, positions the candidate as an individual who is adept at integrating technology within the healthcare field.
• Mentioning leadership in past initiatives indicates the ability to manage projects and drive innovation, which is valuable in a progressive healthcare institution.

What about your doctor cover letter format: organizing and structuring your information

Here is one secret you should know about your doctor cover letter assessment. The Applicant Tracker System (or ATS) won't analyze your cover letter.

You should thus focus on making an excellent impression on recruiters by writing consistent:

• Introduction
• Body paragraphs (and explanation)
• Promise or Call to action
• Signature (that's optional)

Now, let's talk about the design of your doctor cover letter.

Ensure all of your paragraphs are single-spaced and have a one-inch margins on all sides (like in our cover letter templates ).

Also, our cover letter builder automatically takes care of the format and comes along with some of the most popular (and modern) fonts like Volkhov, Chivo, and Bitter.

Speaking of fonts, professionals advise you to keep your doctor cover letter and resume in the same typography and avoid the over-used Arial or Times New Roman.

When wondering whether you should submit your doctor cover letter in Doc or PDF, select the second, as PDF keeps all of your information and design consistent.

The top sections on a doctor cover letter

• Header with Contact Information: Include your name, address, phone number, and email so the recruiter can easily reach you, and add the date and the employer's contact information to show professionalism and attention to detail.
• Opening Greeting: Address the recruiter or hiring manager by name if possible, as personalization demonstrates that you’ve conducted research and are genuinely interested in the position at their healthcare facility.
• Introduction with Relevant Credentials: Begin with a strong opening statement that highlights your medical qualifications, years of experience, and special areas of expertise, which are crucial for making a strong first impression.
• Body of Experience and Skills: Elaborate on your clinical experiences, specialized training, and patient care philosophy, linking these to the requirements of the job to show you are a perfect fit for the role and understand the healthcare provider's needs.
• Closing and Call to Action: Conclude by reiterating your interest in the position, suggesting an in-person or virtual meeting, and thanking the reader for considering your application, which demonstrates your proactive approach and eagerness to contribute to their team.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Clinical proficiency and expertise: To ensure high-quality patient care and accurate diagnoses.
• Compassion and strong patient communication: For building trust and delivering care with empathy.
• Teamwork and collaboration skills: Vital for working effectively with healthcare teams and multi-disciplinary units.
• Resilience and stress management: To handle the high-pressure environments typical in healthcare settings.
• Leadership abilities: Important for managing healthcare staff and leading by example in various clinical scenarios.
• Commitment to continued education: To stay abreast of the latest medical research and technologies for optimal patient outcomes.

What greeting should you use in your doctor cover letter salutation

A simple "Hello" or "Hey" just won't work.

With your doctor cover letter salutation , you set the tone of the whole communication.

You should thus address the hiring managers by using their first (or last name) in your greeting.

But how do you find out who's recruiting for the role?

The easiest way is to look up the role on LinkedIn or the corporate website.

Alternatively, you could also contact the organization via social media or email, for more information.

Unable to still obtain the recruiter's name?

Don't go down the "To whom it may concern path". Instead, start your cover letter with a "Dear HR team".

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Dr. [Last Name],
• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Specific Title of the Receiver such as Director of Medical Staff Services],
• Dear Members of the [Department Name] Committee,
• Dear [Clinical Department] Search Committee,
• Dear [Hospital or Clinic Name] Recruiting Team,

The doctor cover letter intro: aligning your interest with the company culture

You only have one chance at making a memorable first impression on recruiters with your doctor cover letter.

Structure your introduction to be precise and to include no more than two sentences.

Here are some ideas on how to write a job-winning doctor cover letter introduction:

• get creative - show off your personality from the get-go (if this aligns with the company culture);
• focus on your motivation - be specific when you say what gets you excited about this opportunity.

What to write in the middle or body of your doctor cover letter

Here's where it gets tricky.

Your doctor cover letter body should present you in the best light possible and, at the same time, differ from your resume.

Don't be stuck in making up new things or copy-pasting from your resume. Instead, select just one achievement from your experience.

Use it to succinctly tell a story of the job-crucial skills and knowledge this taught you.

Your doctor cover letter is the magic card you need to further show how any organization or team would benefit from working with you.

Closing paragraph basics: choose between a promise and a call to action

You've done all the hard work - congratulations! You've almost reached the end of your doctor cover letter .

But how do you ensure recruiters, who have read your application this far, remember you?

Most doctor professionals end their cover letter with a promise - hinting at their potential and what they plan on achieving if they're hired.

Another option would be to include a call for follow-up, where you remind recruiters that you're very interested in the opportunity (and look forward to hearing from them, soon).

Choose to close your doctor cover letter in the way that best fits your personality.

Which story should you tell in your doctor cover letter when you have zero experience

Candidates, lacking professional experience in the field - this one is for you.

Your doctor cover letter is an exercise of integrity, honesty, and, above all, spinning a positive narrative around your strengths.

And what better way to capture recruiters' attention than with your most job-relevant achievement (this could be from your internship or volunteering experience)?

Make sure to back up your success with transferrable skills that are relevant to the job (e.g. how your year, studying abroad, has taught you to be more motivated and handle multicultural environments).

Another safe card you can bet on is your career dream: in the body of your doctor cover letter, go into the details of how your ambitions would help make the company you're applying for better.

Key takeaways

Within this Enhancv guide, we've provided you with plenty of advice and inspiration on writing your doctor cover letter:

• Always make sure your doctor cover letter is tailored to the role you're applying for to make a good impression on recruiters;
• In your doctor cover letter include a header (with your name, the role you're applying for, date, and contact details) and an introduction of up to two sentences that highlight your key accomplishment or why you'd fit the role;
• Focus your doctor cover letter body on one sole achievement through your career and all the valuable lessons, skills, and know-how you've learned (that are relevant to the role);
• Ensure your doctor cover letter closing statement isn't generic and includes either a call to action or a promise;
• If you lack professional experience, shift recruiters' focus to a relevant achievement (thanks to your academic or versatile experience) or toward your dreams and goals for professional growth.

Cover letter examples by industry

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• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

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Doctor Cover Letter Example for 2024 (Skills & Templates)

Create a standout doctor cover letter with our online platform. browse professional templates for all levels and specialties. land your dream role today.

Are you ready to take the next step in your medical career? Writing a standout cover letter can help you achieve success in your job hunt. Our Doctor Cover Letter Guide provides all the essential information to create an informative and persuasive cover letter. From tips and tricks on making your letter stand out, to advice on how to highlight your qualifications and experience, we have you covered.

We will cover:

• How to write a cover letter, no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a cover letter to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a cover letter fast with our professional Cover Letter Builder .
• What a cover letter template is, and why you should use it.

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Doctor Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to apply for the position of Doctor at your medical facility. With my extensive experience in the medical field and my commitment to providing high quality care, I am confident that I can make a positive contribution to your organization.

I received my medical degree from the University of Illinois and have been practicing medicine for the past eight years. During this time, I have worked as an emergency room physician, a family doctor, and a medical consultant. Throughout my career, I have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of medical conditions. I am also well-versed in conducting research and keeping up to date with advances in the medical field.

I have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and have developed strong relationships with both patients and colleagues throughout my career. I take the time to listen to and understand my patients’ concerns and strive to provide them with the best care possible. I am confident that I could bring the same level of care and compassion to your facility.

In addition, I am highly organized and efficient and am able to manage my time effectively in order to juggle competing demands. I am also comfortable working independently and as part of a team and I am confident that I could quickly become a valuable member of your team.

I am excited to bring my experience and knowledge to your facility and look forward to discussing my qualifications in more detail. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Why Do you Need a Doctor Cover Letter?

• A Doctor cover letter is a great way to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position you are applying for and ensure that your credentials are considered.
• It is a great opportunity to showcase your unique skills and qualifications that make you a perfect fit for the job.
• It also gives the hiring manager a chance to get to know you better and understand why you are the best candidate for the job.
• A Doctor cover letter can also be used to highlight any special skills or experiences you have that would be beneficial for the job position.
• It is also a great way to demonstrate your commitment to the field of medicine and your dedication to providing excellent patient care.
• Overall, a Doctor cover letter is an essential part of the job application process and should be taken seriously.

A Few Important Rules To Keep In Mind

• Begin with a professional greeting, followed by the hiring manager's name if you have it.
• Briefly explain who you are and why you’re writing.
• Highlight your most relevant qualifications and any specializations.
• Explain why you’re the best candidate for the job.
• Include relevant achievements or experience.
• Keep it concise and make sure not to exceed one page.
• Finish with an appropriate closing, such as “Sincerely,” followed by your full name.

What's The Best Structure For Doctor Cover Letters?

After creating an impressive Doctor resume , the next step is crafting a compelling cover letter to accompany your job applications. It's essential to remember that your cover letter should maintain a formal tone and follow a recommended structure. But what exactly does this structure entail, and what key elements should be included in a Doctor cover letter? Let's explore the guidelines and components that will make your cover letter stand out.

Key Components For Doctor Cover Letters:

• Your contact information, including the date of writing
• The recipient's details, such as the company's name and the name of the addressee
• A professional greeting or salutation, like "Dear Mr. Levi,"
• An attention-grabbing opening statement to captivate the reader's interest
• A concise paragraph explaining why you are an excellent fit for the role
• Another paragraph highlighting why the position aligns with your career goals and aspirations
• A closing statement that reinforces your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
• A complimentary closing, such as "Regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your name
• An optional postscript (P.S.) to add a brief, impactful note or mention any additional relevant information.

Cover Letter Header

A header in a cover letter should typically include the following information:

• Your Full Name: Begin with your first and last name, written in a clear and legible format.
• Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and optionally, your mailing address. Providing multiple methods of contact ensures that the hiring manager can reach you easily.
• Date: Add the date on which you are writing the cover letter. This helps establish the timeline of your application.

It's important to place the header at the top of the cover letter, aligning it to the left or center of the page. This ensures that the reader can quickly identify your contact details and know when the cover letter was written.

Cover Letter Greeting / Salutation

A greeting in a cover letter should contain the following elements:

• Personalized Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the specific recipient of the cover letter by their name. If the name is not mentioned in the job posting or you are unsure about the recipient's name, it's acceptable to use a general salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the greeting. Avoid using overly casual language or informal expressions.
• Correct Spelling and Title: Double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and ensure that you use the appropriate title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor) if applicable. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.

For example, a suitable greeting could be "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the information available. It's important to tailor the greeting to the specific recipient to create a personalized and professional tone for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Introduction

An introduction for a cover letter should capture the reader's attention and provide a brief overview of your background and interest in the position. Here's how an effective introduction should look:

• Opening Statement: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning your enthusiasm for the job opportunity or any specific aspect of the company or organization that sparked your interest.
• Brief Introduction: Provide a concise introduction of yourself and mention the specific position you are applying for. Include any relevant background information, such as your current role, educational background, or notable achievements that are directly related to the position.
• Connection to the Company: Demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization and establish a connection between your skills and experiences with their mission, values, or industry. Showcasing your understanding and alignment with their goals helps to emphasize your fit for the role.
• Engaging Hook: Consider including a compelling sentence or two that highlights your unique selling points or key qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. This can be a specific accomplishment, a relevant skill, or an experience that demonstrates your value as a potential employee.
• Transition to the Body: Conclude the introduction by smoothly transitioning to the main body of the cover letter, where you will provide more detailed information about your qualifications, experiences, and how they align with the requirements of the position.

By following these guidelines, your cover letter introduction will make a strong first impression and set the stage for the rest of your application.

Cover Letter Body

Dear Dr. [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to apply for the Doctor position at [Company Name]. With my extensive training and strong work ethic, I am confident that I can exceed your expectations for this role.

I am a board-certified physician with five years of experience in an acute care setting. I have a strong background in diagnosing and treating a wide range of medical conditions as well as providing comprehensive patient care. I have extensive experience in developing treatment plans, ordering tests, and educating patients on their health. I understand the importance of providing excellent patient care while maintaining efficient workflow to ensure patient satisfaction.

In addition to my clinical experience, I have a strong record of research and publication. I have co-authored three papers in medical journals and I have presented my research at several conferences. I am committed to the highest standards of care and I am passionate about staying current with advances in medicine.

I have an excellent bedside manner and I am highly organized and detail-oriented. I am confident that I can make significant contributions to [Company Name] and I am excited to be considered for the Doctor position.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Complimentary Close

The conclusion and signature of a cover letter provide a final opportunity to leave a positive impression and invite further action. Here's how the conclusion and signature of a cover letter should look:

• Summary of Interest: In the conclusion paragraph, summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization or school. Emphasize the value you can bring to the role and briefly mention your key qualifications or unique selling points.
• Appreciation and Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader's time and consideration in reviewing your application. Thank them for the opportunity to be considered for the position and acknowledge any additional materials or documents you have included, such as references or a portfolio.
• Call to Action: Conclude the cover letter with a clear call to action. Indicate your availability for an interview or express your interest in discussing the opportunity further. Encourage the reader to contact you to schedule a meeting or provide any additional information they may require.
• Complimentary Closing: Choose a professional and appropriate complimentary closing to end your cover letter, such as "Sincerely," "Best Regards," or "Thank you." Ensure the closing reflects the overall tone and formality of the letter.
• Signature: Below the complimentary closing, leave space for your handwritten signature. Sign your name in ink using a legible and professional style. If you are submitting a digital or typed cover letter, you can simply type your full name.
• Typed Name: Beneath your signature, type your full name in a clear and readable font. This allows for easy identification and ensures clarity in case the handwritten signature is not clear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Doctor Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, it's essential to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of making a strong impression. By being aware of these pitfalls and avoiding them, you can ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your qualifications and stands out from the competition. In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create a compelling and impactful introduction that captures the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, understanding these mistakes will greatly enhance your chances of success in the job application process. So, let's dive in and discover how to steer clear of these common missteps and create a standout cover letter that gets you noticed by potential employers.

• Not tailoring the letter to the specific job opportunity.
• Using overly casual language.
• Failing to proofread and edit the letter.
• Including irrelevant information.
• Making it longer than a page.
• Using an unprofessional email address.
• Rehashing your CV.
• Being too generic.
• Failing to research the practice or hospital.
• Using a template.
• Not addressing the letter to a specific person.
• Omitting important contact information.

Key Takeaways For a Doctor Cover Letter

• Highlight your relevant qualifications and experiences.
• Be specific about your accomplishments.
• Express enthusiasm for the role.
• Explain why you believe you are the best candidate for the position.
• Include your contact information.
• Proofread your letter for errors.
• Customize your letter to the job.

• Practicing Physician

Physician Cover Letter Examples

Including tips and strategies for writing the best cover letter.

If you are a physician looking to secure your dream job, then you must take a look at our physician cover letter examples. Often overlooked, cover letters can be the application component that makes you stand out. Whether you are working on your job applications alone or with a physician career advisor , it’s important to know what a cover letter should entail and how to write it. In our article, we will share expert tips on physician cover letter standards, format, and provide you with stellar physician cover letter examples to inspire your own!

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free initial consultation here <<

Article Contents 12 min read

Why is a cover letter important.

Physician cover letters are often neglected because they usually cannot convey the wealth of experience the applicant possesses. Unlike a CV, a cover letter is a short document, usually no more than 3-5 paragraphs long, so you must be extremely careful about what you decide to include. But if you plan correctly, a cover letter can truly be the optimal way to demonstrate why you are the best candidate for a position.

Essentially, a physician cover letter is your chance to really demonstrate your desire for and dedication to the position you are applying to. A CV cannot do that! A CV or a resume can outline why you possess appropriate education, skills, and experiences, but they cannot express why you want to pursue the positions you apply to. And that’s where a cover letter comes in. In a cover letter, you can express your genuine interest and commitment, as well as suitability. And while the credentials on your CV are important, the hiring committees want to see sincere interest from applicants, which can only be conveyed on paper via a cover letter.

Furthermore, a cover letter is also an application component that humanizes the candidate. It gives a real sense of the person behind the CV or resume. And while the latter are essential in the committee’s decision-making, a cover letter can give them a sense of your personality, background, and even interests. It's always great to have an accomplished professional on your healthcare team. But having a professional who possesses great communication and interpersonal skills, or a professional who demonstrates true commitment to their team is a much bigger coup. It is no wonder that residency program directors consider interpersonal skills and interactions with the team as the most important factors when it comes to making their rank order list. Use the cover letter to demonstrate these skills and your dedication even before you are called into an interview! And in this article, we will show you how to do just that!

Are you a resident planning your future after completing your training?

Why You Are Interested in the Position/Your Suitability

Your physician cover letter must convey why the job ad or the job itself caught your eye. Why is this your dream job? Why are you sending this letter? Sometimes, to convey this, it takes more than a sentence or two, or a paragraph; you may use the entirety of the letter to convey this interest.

Some useful tips for showing this interest may include:

Other connections, such as geography, colleagues, past work experience in the institution, etc. "}]">

But at the same time, your interest must be backed up by your own background and experiences. It’s not enough to say that the job seems interesting to you – you must have informed interest that comes from skills and events in your life. While you are expressing interest, don't forget to emphasize your suitability at the same time. Show what you can contribute to the team and the institution.

How You Can Help Improve Patient Care

As a physician, your number one priority is always patients. If you are applying for a clinical position, then your cover letter should also indicate how you can help improve patient care at the institution you are applying to. This can be as simple as demonstrating great past experiences, like this:

“During my time at the walk-in clinic, I minimized wait time by 10 minutes by implementing a new software system that ended up saving time and money for both the clinic and the patients.”

In addition to demonstrating that you are an innovative thinker and problem-solver, this sentence shows that you care about solving the wait times and financial burdens that come with healthcare.

Essentially, your cover letter should indicate that the institution will gain better patient care options by hiring you. While you do not have to cure cancer or resolve the healthcare budget issues, it would be beneficial if you can show how you have helped patients have better healthcare experiences before.

This might seem less relevant, but your geographical ties to the position might be the one tie-breaker that surprises you. Having geographical ties to an institution, a city, or a state/province, indicates that you want to stay and practice in the area. Retention is a very serious issue in healthcare. By demonstrating that you have history, family, or, simply, interest in working in the area long-term, you are further showing genuine interest in the position.

Be specific. You should not go on a long tirade about the geographical area. Try to showcase your dedication very subtly, like so:

“Having grown up and started a family in X town, I want to continue dedicating my professional knowledge and experience to improve the lives of X citizens.”

Simple but effective. This sentence demonstrates that the applicant grew up in this town, which means she knows the kind of population she will be serving. Plus, she has already started a family here, which means she is really settled and ready to start or continue her professional life here.

Are you wondering about what kind of income you can expect? Check out this video:

Important Do’s and Don’ts

Before we jump into the discussion of how to write your cover letter, let’s go over some important rules and standards of cover letter etiquette:

Do Create a Narrative

Your cover letter is not a list! This is one of the biggest mistakes candidates make when they create this application component. They start to list all the accomplishments that make them look suitable for the position – and while this may seem like an appropriate approach, a cover letter has a completely different purpose! Remember, you have your CV or resume to demonstrate why you are suitable for the position “on paper”; your education, skills, experiences, awards, and so on, are all listed on the CV, so it’s not worth repeating the same items in your cover letter.

Your cover letter should be a narrative. As a physician, you have experience creating compelling narratives in your medical school personal statement and your residency statement . And while the cover letter will be slightly shorter, its objective is quite similar to the application essays. Your cover letter should demonstrate why you want and deserve the position via a strong, compelling story. We will be going into more detail about what exactly to include in the narrative, but first, it's important to remember the first rule of cover letter writing: you are creating a short essay.

Do Tailor to Each Position

Before you even start writing your letter, make sure to research the position you are applying to. You must have done so already if you are interested in it, but make sure to review what kind of work the position involves, what kind of skills are important for the position, and what kind of goals and mission are emphasized by the institution you are pursuing. Tailor your cover letter to emphasize your relevant skills, background, and interests. This does not mean that you have to embellish or lie – simply try to reflect on what kind of skills and experiences from your life can relate to these requirements and values.

Additionally, when you start writing, do not forget to address your letter to a specific person or hiring committee. You want to showcase genuine dedication and interest, so simply addressing the letter “To Whom It May Concern” is impersonal and, frankly, forgettable. Do your best to research who will be reviewing your application.

Don’t Skip Soft Skills

Your CV is the place to really highlight your hard skills, such as your specialty training, your experiences in the field, your research background, and so on. But your cover letter should be able to give a glimpse into your personality and soft skills that are highly valued by hiring committees. For example, writing a compelling and strong narrative in your cover letter is so important – it shows your written communication skills and critical thinking skills. By showing that you are able to articulate your thoughts concisely, you show that you can pinpoint the most important aspects of your candidacy and highlight them appropriately.

In your cover letter, you can also emphasize soft skills like ethical proclivity, professionalism, leadership, and even commitment to the specialty. Remember, it's important to try and show rather than tell the reader about these qualities. For example, instead of simply saying “I am dedicated to professional ethics, and I have leadership skills”, you can write:

“As the head of the Center for Healthcare Ethics during my tenure with the X residency program, I have dedicated much of my time creating awareness of dementia and related patient treatment in Arkansas. I believe I can affect more change in making the lives of these patients better as a member of your team in X clinic.”

This sentence demonstrates that:

That he has a dedication to improving healthcare and awareness for a specific state "}]">

Do Address Gaps

If you have any gaps or setbacks in your resume or CV, a cover letter is a perfect place to briefly address them. Do not take up the entire space to make excuses for these problems, but try to explain why x, y, or z happened. For example, if you have a large gap in your resume due to illness or if you had to take a leave of absence from your position, address it like so:

“Having had to take a prolonged leave of absence from my position due to cancer diagnosis, I am more than eager to return to working with patients and doing my best to promote their well-being and health.”

Remember not to dwell on the gap or the setback. A brief explanation is best. If the hiring committee wants to further investigate it, you will be asked about this issue in the interview. And keep in mind that if there is a reasonable explanation for the setback in your cover letter, then the setback should not prevent the hiring committee from speaking with you in person. Leaving the gap or the setback unaddressed is more of a red flag than including a brief explanation in your letter.

Don’t Just Repeat CV/resume

It’s worth repeating that your cover letter is not a CV, so do not simply repeat the same information in your cover letter. While you can certainly bring up the jobs or positions you list in the CV, use the cover letter to express items you cannot include in the CV, such as your genuine interest in the position, your connection to the institution you are applying to, your connection to the geographical area, your soft skills, your background, and so on. You have a limited amount of space to convey your suitability for the position, so repeating the same information in the same format throughout your job application is just not a wise approach.

Your physician cover letter should not be more than a page, so around 3 to 5 paragraphs long. Use professional language and avoid a colloquial tone. Make sure to structure it as an academic essay, with an intro, body, and conclusion:

In the conclusion, restate your interest and include one last strong argument for why you would be the perfect fit for this position. This last little argument can help you make the cover letter and therefore your candidacy more memorable! You can also offer to answer any further questions and express interest in meeting in person. ","label":"Conclusion","title":"Conclusion"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

In the heading of your cover letter, don’t forget to include your contact info, such as your full name, address, email, and telephone number. 

Check out the golden rule of writing any professional letter or statement:

Physician Cover Letter Example #1

Paula Alvarez

123 X Street, Fresno CA, 93711

123-456-7890

[email protected]

Dear Dr. Johnson,

I am writing in response to the Family Staff Physician position posted in the X City Daily Newspaper, Job ID 1234, located in Orange Cove, California. I am a young, but experienced family doctor, with more than 7 years of clinical experience in Fresno County. I believe my dedication, skills, and experience will be a valuable addition to your institution. Having lived in California all my life, I received my education and training in some of the best medical programs in the country. Throughout my education, I was driven by the desire to become a physician who advocates for healthcare accessibility for low-income households and vulnerable populations. 

After graduating from Stanford Medical School , I was trained and served as a primary-care doctor at the St. Agnes Medical Center for 7 years. During my tenure, I operated as a staff physician, serving over 150 patients from low-income backgrounds per week. This experience exposed me to a variety of disorders that continue to plague the vulnerable populations of California, including HIV, hepatitis, substance abuse, as well as a variety of other health problems that were often neglected by my patients.

As a result, I became involved in the promotion of the Low-Income Health Program to help bring healthcare to low-income and vulnerable populations of Fresno County. Furthermore, I joined the board of the California Department of Health Care Services to promote initiatives that further alleviate the financial burden of healthcare for low-income families. We have made significant improvements to the lives of Californians by instating payment reforms and lifting policies forbidding physicians from serving immigrants without proper paperwork.

What I would like to bring to the X Hospital of Orange Cove is a proven dedication to first-rate healthcare to all patients regardless of their class or socio-economic status. The mission and goals of your institution greatly align with my own - I have vast experience working with the type of population that makes up the majority of your patients. Not only does my experience show that I am dedicated to working with low-income and vulnerable populations, but my fluency in Spanish will also help me communicate easier with a large part of our patients.

I attach my CV with this application for your review. I am very interested in becoming a part of your establishment and I hope that you can provide me with an opportunity to discuss my candidacy for the position in more detail in a personal interview.

Physician Cover Letter Example #2

567 ABC street, Kelowna, BC, V1P 1U8

098-765-4320

Dear Dr. Rosen,

This letter is to express my interest in the Pediatric Immunologist position with the X Hospital in Toronto, ON. I am an experienced pediatrician, having worked with immune-compromised children for the last 17 years and I would like nothing more than to contribute my knowledge and experience to the healthcare efforts of your esteemed establishment. I have been advised of this position by your colleague, Dr. Palmer, who has assured me that I would be the perfect candidate for this position.

For the last 10 years, I have been working as a pediatric immunologist at X hospital in Y city, British Columbia. Within 3 years of my tenure at this institution, I was promoted to the head of the Pediatrics Department, having had a significant impact on research developments in the field and on patient care practices. My contributions to the treatment research have led to significant developments in treatments for young patients with allergies and skin conditions. My work on psoriasis has been published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology and recognized by my colleagues all over the world.

During my time as a researcher, I never left clinical practice. The well-being and healthcare of my patients remained my main concern. The more I worked with children, the more I understood the gravity of my responsibility before my patients and their families. I did everything in my power to improve the healthcare experience for my young patients. My colleagues and I created playrooms where the children could play with their peers and families while they wait for their appointments. We provided toys, games, and allergy-free snacks for our patients to enjoy. This initiative has been especially supported by the parents, who claim that their children were much more eager to attend our appointments since the playrooms were introduced. 

I have loved working with my colleagues and patients in Y city, BC, but I have always longed to return to Ontario. I grew up and attended university in Toronto. Currently, my family and I are looking to return to Ontario, as my wife is also from Toronto. When I was told of this opportunity, I wasted no time preparing my application. I am ready to exceed your expectations and to dedicate my most sincere efforts to improving the health and the healthcare experience of my patients in Toronto.

My CV is enclosed with this letter. I am highly interested in joining your dynamic and esteemed team and hope that you give my application due consideration. I sincerely thank you for your time.

Best wishes,

A cover letter allows you to express your interest in a specific job. While your CV may remain mostly the same for each position you may apply to, a cover letter will allow you to demonstrate what exactly attracted you to each position and why you would be a great fit for each position you pursue.

It should be no longer than a page.

Use academic essay structure with an intro, body, and conclusion.

Yes, each cover letter should address the person who is in charge of the hiring process or who will be supervising you in the position. Try to find out who will be reading your application and address the cover letter directly to them. You may find this information in the job ad, on the institution’s website, or you may want to call the institution and ask who is in charge of the hiring process.

Express your genuine interest in the position and why you are a good fit. Also, try to include some geographical connection you have to the position, the city, or the state.

Unless you are explicitly asked not to submit a cover letter, always include a cover letter as part of your application.

No, your physician cover letter should be a narrative and not a list.

You can discuss the most important jobs or positions, but try to extrapolate on your significant experiences by adding details and events that cannot be found in your CV.

Yes, you should. 

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Physician Cover Letter Example

Enhance your career prospects & get inspiration for your own cover letter with our free, downloadable Physician cover letter example. Make a copy of this cover letter sample free of charge or customize it inside our HR-approved cover letter creator.

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Physician Cover Letter Example (Full Text Version)

Dear Hiring Team,

I am writing to express my interest in the Physician position at St John Hospital in San Diego, CA, as advertised on Indeed.com. With over a decade of experience and a strong industry knowledge, I believe I am well-suited for this role and can make a valuable contribution to your team.

During my time at Jackson Health Systems, Inc., I demonstrated a patient-focused approach and the ability to handle high-pressure situations with ease. I developed personalized treatment plans, ensured top-quality care for patients, and effectively communicated with families to monitor progress. Additionally, I managed confidential documents, conducted diagnostic tests, and played a role in training new staff.

I have a proven track record of being a collaborative team player and a critical thinker. I graduated from Mason University with a 3.98 GPA, placing me in the top 2% of my class. With meticulous attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills, I am eager for the opportunity to discuss how my qualifications align with the needs of the Physician role.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of meeting with you to further discuss my candidacy.

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

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• Cover Letters

Perfecting Your Psychiatry CV and Cover Letter

When you’re seeking a new psychiatry position, your CV and cover letter are the way to make a good first impression and communicate where you’ve been, what you’ve accomplished, and where you see yourself in the future. 

A polished CV and an engaging cover letter help you demonstrate: 

• Your character
• Your work ethic
• How your skills and experience will benefit your future employer

Learn more about how to perfect your CV and cover letter so you can better connect with your ideal psychiatry job. 

Write for the Psychiatry Job You Want

Before you dive into your CV, take some time to get clear about your priorities in terms of your next job. Growing demand for mental healthcare is supercharging the job market forpsychiatrists new to the field, so you may have a wide range of options in terms of patient populations and practice settings . 

Don’t be tempted by a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, craft your CV and cover letter to align with your ideal psychiatry position . 

Most psychiatry CVs have the same general content sections, but the format can vary quite a bit. When you’re applying for a particular position, always look for that institution’s CV guidelines. If guidelines aren’t available, look up the CVs of psychiatrists who were hired for a comparable position at that institution and use a similar template.

Generally, the following sections should appear in your CV if you have relevant information to include: 

• Contact details
• Education, certification, and other qualifications
• Employment experience
• Leadership and management experience
• Teaching experience
• Publications, posters, lectures, and presentations
• Honors and awards
• Psychiatry professional and society memberships
• Training courses
• Volunteer experience
• Personal interests
• Language skills

Leave out sections that don’t apply to you and omit jobs, training, or research that isn’t related to psychiatry, mental health, or the job you’re seeking.

If you’re early in your career and you haven’t held a psychiatry leadership or administrative position, consider including your participation in hospital or medical association committees, quality improvement projects, and mental health or psychiatry programs or events you helped organize.

Remember that anything on your CV, including personal interests, may come up during an interview. As you add content to your CV, consider how it highlights your fit for the position you’re seeking.

If you need extra help, you can also use Health eCareers’ CV builder for help formatting your information and experience. 

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter for a Psychiatry Job

Even though psychiatrists are increasingly in demand , it’s still likely that your potential employer will receive dozens of CVs for the position you’re applying to, especially for positions with high salaries. Your cover letter is your chance to stand out in a competitive market. 

In general, a cover letter should:

• Be addressed to a real person: If you can’t find the name of the hiring manager, it’s better to write “Dear Hiring Manager” than to use “To whom it may concern” or “Dear Sir or Madam.”
• Be brief and to the point—no more than one page.
• Be formal in tone, but not impersonal.

Every cover letter you write should also be customized to show that you’ve taken the time to get familiar with the organization and the job listing. Reference something specific about the organization or the job that illustrates why you believe it’s the right position for you. 

Include information that conveys your:

• Alignment with the organization’s mission and goals
• Professional credentials
• Relevant accomplishments
• Specialized expertise 

If you’re short on psychiatry experience, you can take one of these approaches: 

• Highlight skills relevant to psychiatry that you’ve gained through life experience or work not in the field of psychiatry.
• Focus on an achievement from your volunteering experience or education that will show the relevant skills you’ll bring to this position.
• Focus on how your career goals align with the institution you’re applying to and describe how you see yourself growing as part of the organization.

If you want help with your first draft, check out Health eCareers’ cover letter generator .

Polish and Perfect Your Psychiatry CV and Cover Letter

Once your CV and cover letter are drafted, you’re ready to optimize. Here’s where you’ll tailor your CV and cover letter to each job you’re applying to. For each application, review and edit your CV and cover letter for the following:

Keywords: More than 90 percent of employers use applicant tracking systems that scan applications for keywords. It’s worth taking the time to comb through the job description and note desired skills and requirements for that role. Use those keywords throughout your cover letter and CV. 

Name referencing: If you did research or a fellowship with a prestigious clinician or researcher, include the name and title of that person.

Relevance: Include specifics that match your qualifications and skills as closely as possible to the job posting. Don’t include activities you were only briefly or peripherally involved with or things that aren’t related to psychiatry or your desired position. 

Tone: Your tone should be neutral, objective, and professional—but not passive. Use short and simple sentences and active words.

Visual appeal: An easy-to-read CV is essential. Don’t get fancy with unique typefaces or colors. Make sure it has:

• A consistent font and format
• Bullet points or simple paragraphs to make large chunks of information easy to scan
• Distinct headings
• Plenty of white space

Final Steps for Psychiatry Application Perfection

But wait—there’s still one final round of editing to go, and it’s important. Before you submit your application, go through your cover letter and CV one more time to check for the following:

Accuracy: Double-check the accuracy of all dates, job titles, certifications, grants, awards, names, committees, companies, programs, and institutions. Never exaggerate details about your experience and don’t guess about date ranges.

Consistency: Keep your language, chronology, and formatting consistent throughout.

Errors: Punctuation, spelling, and grammar errors will hurt the readers’ impression of you. 

Length: There are no length restrictions, but early-career medical CVs typically fall between two to three pages. If you’re struggling to rein it in, go through your content and ask yourself:

• Will the people who receive my CV find this information relevant?
• Will this information help me stand out as an applicant?
• Does this information help explain who I am as a professional?

Ask colleagues, mentors, family, and friends to proofread your CV. Ask them for overall feedback as well. They may see opportunities to highlight a valuable achievement, skill, or experience that you haven’t thought of.

With this plan of action, you’ll be well on your way to finding a fulfilling psychiatry position.

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