Physician Contract Review: Why Every Doctor Should Have Their Agreement ReviewedIs Having Physician Contracts Reviewed Worth It?
Whether you’re fresh out of residency or an experienced practitioner considering a new opportunity, reviewing your employment contract is a critical step in protecting your career. A physician contract review ensures that the terms of your agreement are fair, legally sound, and aligned with your long-term goals.
This guide explains what physician employment contracts typically include, why contract review is essential, and how legal support can make all the difference.
What Is a Physician Employment Contract?
A physician employment contract is a legally binding agreement between a doctor and a healthcare organization — often a hospital, medical group, or private practice. It outlines:
- Your compensation: Base salary, bonuses, and benefits
- Job duties: Patient load, location(s), and schedule
- Employment type: Whether you’re an employee or independent contractor
- Termination terms: How and when either party can end the relationship
- Additional clauses: Non-compete, malpractice coverage, relocation assistance, and more
Because these contracts can significantly impact your income, lifestyle, and future options, a professional physician contract review is highly recommended before signing.
Do All Doctors Need a Contract Review?
Not all physicians sign contracts — some operate as partners or self-employed providers. However, with a growing trend toward employment-based practice, more doctors are entering into formal agreements with hospitals and medical groups.
Whether you’re joining a private clinic, a health system, or a startup, a physician contract review ensures you’re not overlooking unfavorable or ambiguous terms.
Why a Physician Contract Review Matters
✅ 1. Protects Your Compensation
A lawyer can verify that:
- Your base salary reflects fair market value
- Bonuses or incentives are clearly defined and achievable
- Payment structure is tax-efficient and legally sound
✅ 2. Clarifies Legal Terms
Complex clauses like non-compete agreements, malpractice insurance, and termination without cause are common — but not always easy to understand. An attorney ensures you’re not agreeing to unreasonable restrictions or liabilities.
✅ 3. Strengthens Your Negotiating Position
Employers often present standard contracts — but “standard” doesn’t always mean “fair.” A physician contract review gives you leverage to:
- Request revisions
- Push for better compensation
- Clarify vague language
- Ensure your professional rights are respected
When Should You Get a Physician Contract Reviewed?
Timing is key. You should seek a physician contract review when:
- Starting a new job
- Renewing or renegotiating an existing contract
- Transitioning into a partnership
- Changing compensation or job responsibilities
- Ending your current agreement
Waiting until after you’ve signed reduces your leverage and may lock you into unfavorable terms.
What Should Be Reviewed in a Physician Contract?
A complete physician contract review should cover the following areas:
📌 Compensation & Benefits
- Base salary, bonuses, profit sharing
- Health, dental, vision, disability, and malpractice insurance
- CME reimbursement, relocation support, licensing fees
📌 Work Duties
- Patient expectations, clinic hours, on-call schedule
- Hospital coverage requirements
- Administrative responsibilities
📌 Restrictive Covenants
- Non-compete clauses: Where and how long you’re restricted
- Non-solicitation: Limits on contacting patients or staff post-employment
📌 Termination & Exit Strategy
- Duration of the contract
- Notice period required
- Grounds for termination “with cause” or “without cause”
- Severance pay, if applicable
📌 Partnership Opportunities
If there’s a path to ownership or partnership, make sure the process and timelines are defined.
📌 Malpractice Insurance
- Who pays for coverage
- What type of coverage (claims-made vs. occurrence)
- Whether tail coverage is included when you leave
Negotiating Better Terms
Employers often say their contracts are non-negotiable — but many physicians successfully renegotiate elements like:
- Compensation
- Signing bonuses
- Call responsibilities
- Termination clauses
- Professional development budgets
With legal guidance during your physician contract review, you can craft a negotiation strategy that’s respectful yet firm, based on industry standards and your personal value.
Why Work With a Healthcare Attorney?
A qualified healthcare attorney can:
- Identify red flags in your contract
- Suggest edits to protect your interests
- Draft proposed revisions and negotiate on your behalf
- Ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws
Without professional input, even a minor clause can create major headaches later — whether it’s an overlooked non-compete or a poorly structured incentive plan.
Dike Law Group: Your Partner in Physician Contract Review
At Dike Law Group, we specialize in physician contract review for doctors across all specialties. Whether you’re entering your first role or renegotiating your 10th, we ensure your contract is aligned with your goals and rights.
Let us review your agreement, identify improvement opportunities, and support you in building a rewarding and secure medical career.
Conclusion: Never Sign Without a Physician Contract Review
Your contract defines not just your job — but your income, flexibility, legal protections, and long-term career path. A thorough physician contract review is an investment in your future that can prevent years of frustration or lost earnings.
Before signing on the dotted line, consult a legal expert to ensure your agreement sets you up for success.
Contact one of our attorneys at Dike Law Group and schedule a meeting so we can discuss at dorismeet.com.
