Negotiating a Physician Employment Contract: Overview
The upcoming series of blogs will address contract negotiation. This blog does not constitute legal advice; you should contact a legal expert if some aspect of a contract is confusing. Before examining contract negotiation specifics, consider the following general advice:
First, come to the table with the proper attitude. You will likely work with many of the people you negotiate with. Control your emotions, do not take anything personally, and remember that your goal is not to squeeze every last penny out of your employer.
Second, consider several relevant legal issues. All assurances must be in writing. The legal concept of parol evidence renders verbal assurances meaningless if they contradict a written and signed agreement. Physicians should take their time and have confusing legal terms explained. Do not make assumptions about contract language. If you are not comfortable negotiating on your own, you can use a physician recruiter, search an online database that provides attorneys or consultants to physicians, or even hire an agent.
Finally, be prepared. Have an acceptable range in mind for each negotiable benefit before negotiations begin. You might want to negotiate compensation towards the end and first focus on some of contractual aspects that are “easier” to agree to.
For additional advice, read the American Academy of Family Physicians’ article on negotiation gambits, the AMA’s model employment contract, or negotiation tips from the American College of Physicians.
First, come to the table with the proper attitude. You will likely work with many of the people you negotiate with. Control your emotions, do not take anything personally, and remember that your goal is not to squeeze every last penny out of your employer.
Second, consider several relevant legal issues. All assurances must be in writing. The legal concept of parol evidence renders verbal assurances meaningless if they contradict a written and signed agreement. Physicians should take their time and have confusing legal terms explained. Do not make assumptions about contract language. If you are not comfortable negotiating on your own, you can use a physician recruiter, search an online database that provides attorneys or consultants to physicians, or even hire an agent.
Finally, be prepared. Have an acceptable range in mind for each negotiable benefit before negotiations begin. You might want to negotiate compensation towards the end and first focus on some of contractual aspects that are “easier” to agree to.
For additional advice, read the American Academy of Family Physicians’ article on negotiation gambits, the AMA’s model employment contract, or negotiation tips from the American College of Physicians.
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