Ep 220 Successfully navigating a military medicine career with Dr. Andrew Schlussel

🎙️ Navigating a Successful Military Surgical Career With Dr. Andrew Schlussel In this episode of the BOSS Business of Surgery Series, Dr. Amy Vertrees interviews Andrew Schlussel, colorectal surgeon, Army veteran, and co-editor of The SAGES Manual for Navigating a Successful Military Surgical Career. Dr.Schlussel  shares insights from his 15 years on active duty in the U.S. Army, his transition to the reserves, and his experience building a fulfilling and dynamic military surgical career. This conversation is both practical and deeply personal — covering everything from surgical volume and research opportunities to LGBTQ+ service and retirement planning. 🔎 In This Episode, We Discuss: 🇺🇸 Building a Military Surgical Career ROTC beginnings and returning to medicine through HPSP Training at Tripler Army Medical Center Deployments to Afghanistan, time in Iraq and Syria Serving in Korea, Fort Lewis, and Fort Eisenhower Transitioning from active duty to the reserves Dr.Schlussel shares how military training provided not just clinical skills, but leadership experience in quality improvement, root cause analysis, and systems-based practice. 📘 Why This Book Was Needed The idea for The SAGES Manual came after Dr.Schlussel found his Army Officer’s Guide while cleaning out his closet after leaving active duty. He realized: Military medicine needed its own playbook. The book was intentionally developed as a tri-service resource — benefiting Army, Navy, and Air Force surgeons alike — and was created collaboratively with leaders involved in Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) military initiatives. ⚙️ The Truth About Surgical Volume in the Military A common concern: lower surgical volume. Dr.Schlussel reframes this as opportunity: Time for research NIH collaboration Global health engagement (including the Wilkins Fellowship) Creative academic and leadership projects Quality improvement and systems innovation His key message: Persistence is everything in the military system. You may hear “no” repeatedly — but success often comes to those who continue asking the right questions. 💼 Employment Flexibility: ODEs, URSAs, and MTAs Military surgical careers have evolved. Dr.Schlussel explains: Off-Duty Employment (ODE) URSAs (utilizing civilian colonoscopy suites) MTAs (taking acute care call at civilian hospitals) These opportunities are significantly more available than they were 10–15 years ago — but require understanding military legal frameworks and approval processes. Current reserve bonuses for surgeons: 💰 $75,000 per year with a two-year minimum commitment 🌈 LGBTQ+ Service in the Military One of the most powerful parts of this episode is Dr.Schlussel's personal experience serving under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” ROTC contracts in 2000–2001 included clauses prohibiting identifying as homosexual. He served closeted for years. Following repeal, he observed gaps in military physicians’ understanding of LGBTQ+ healthcare — including knowledge of PrEP and inclusive care practices. As former president of the Association of Gay and Lesbian Surgeons and Allies, he emphasizes: Inclusive environments require both cultural awareness and clinical competence. 📝 Preparing for Retirement or Separation Dr.Schlussel strongly recommends: Start preparing one year earlier than required Carefully review your DD-214 Utilize Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) Take advantage of transition programs (college courses, certifications, Lean Sigma training) Once the DD-214 is signed, changes are extremely difficult. 🏥 Working at the VA Dr. Schlussel discusses his experience serving at the VA — both as a volunteer and paid staff. He explains: Differences between DOD and VA funding models Communication challenges between systems The deep fulfillment of caring for veterans He also highlights: Priority hiring for veterans Ability to “buy back” military time toward federal retirement TSP rollover benefits 📍 Finding His Current Role After relocating to Jacksonville for his husband’s practice, Dr. Schlussel contacted every colorectal surgeon in the area — demonstrating the same persistence he advocates. He now: Works in Jacksonville Continues reserve service Plans to coach and mentor military surgeons 📚 Resources & Links The SAGES Manual for Navigating a Successful Military Surgical Career (Springer, 20% discount available; proceeds support SAGES) Connect with Dr.Schlussel on Instagram: @rainbow_scalpel Email: [email protected]  Attend the annual Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) meeting Free for active duty personnel Reduced membership ($60–100 for attendings, free for residents) 💡 Key Takeaways ✔ Military surgical careers offer leadership development far beyond the operating room ✔ Lower volume can create space for innovation and research ✔ Persistence within the military system is critical ✔ Separation planning must begin early ✔ LGBTQ+ inclusion requires both policy change and medical education ✔ Military surgeons develop unique leadership and systems-thinking skills that translate powerfully into civilian careers