7 mistakes to avoid when negotiating physician contracts

Landing a job offer is an exciting achievement, but now comes the most critical step – contract negotiation.

Making the wrong moves during contract negotiations can have repercussions that can affect you and your career trajectory for years. Here are seven mistakes to avoid when negotiating physician contracts and get the best deal for yourself.

1. Failing to research market standards

One of the costliest errors you can make is not doing your homework on market standards for physician compensation and benefits in your specialty and location. Before you sit down to negotiate, conduct thorough research to understand the typical salary range, benefits and contractual terms. This can serve as your benchmark during negotiations and help you know when you are being offered a fair deal.

2. Not clarifying expectations

Ensure the contract clearly outlines your roles and responsibilities to prevent any disputes later. Ambiguity in your contract can lead to misunderstandings and dissatisfaction down the road, so avoid the mistake of not seeking clearly defined expectations on things like work hours, call schedule, patient load and performance metrics.

3. Overlooking noncompete clauses

Noncompete clauses can restrict your ability to work in a specific geographic area or specialty after leaving your current job. Be careful not to overlook or underestimate the impact of these clauses. Negotiate reasonable terms that allow for future career flexibility without jeopardizing your professional options.

4. Neglecting benefit negotiation

While salary is a crucial factor, don’t forget the negotiations of benefits. Perks such as health insurance, retirement plans, malpractice coverage and flexible scheduling can greatly impact your overall compensation package. Consider the total value of your benefits, such as flexible scheduling which may possess a value above monetary, and negotiate to improve them if necessary.

5. Rushing through the process

Negotiate in haste, repent in leisure. Keep in mind negotiating a job contract is not a race. Rushing through the process can lead to costly mistakes. Take the time to thoroughly review the terms, consult with legal counsel if needed and ask questions about anything that is unclear. It’s better to take the time now than to regret it later.

6. Ignoring the termination clause

One common oversight is failing to pay attention to the termination clause. Have a clear understanding of the circumstances under which your contract can be terminated, as well as the notice period required by both parties. It’s vital to protect your interests by ensuring the terms are reasonable and that you have a fair exit strategy.

7. Not seeking legal advice

Perhaps the most critical and easily avoidable mistake is failing to obtain legal advice during contract negotiations. Consulting with an attorney who specializes in physician contracts can help you navigate complex legal language, identify potential pitfalls and ensure your interests are protected. Most people don’t consider the healthcare organization has a legal team available to craft contracts that protect their best interests. The investment in legal counsel to look after your own interests could be worth every penny in the long run.

Avoiding these common pitfalls will help you secure a contract that aligns with your professional goals while helping to ensure a harmonious work experience. Negotiating a job contract is a pivotal moment in your career journey. Remember that effective communication, thorough research and legal guidance can help you secure a fair and beneficial contract, which will start that journey off on the right foot.