Physician Employment Agreement – AMA: Understanding the Basics
If you`re a physician, you may be considering an employment agreement with a healthcare organization. Whether you`re a recent graduate or a seasoned physician, it`s important to understand the basics of a physician employment agreement (PEA). The American Medical Association (AMA) can be your go-to source for guidelines and principles designed to help physicians negotiate equitable contracts.
A PEA is a legal document that establishes the professional relationship between a physician and the employer. It outlines terms and conditions of employment, including compensation, benefits, work schedule, job responsibilities, and performance expectations. This agreement typically covers all aspects of the professional relationship between the physician and the employer, including confidentiality, ethics, malpractice insurance, termination, and non-compete clauses.
Let`s take a closer look at the key components of a PEA.
1. Compensation and Benefits: The PEA should specify the physician`s salary, bonuses, and other forms of compensation, including incentives and profit-sharing. It may also outline the benefits package, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
2. Work Schedule: The PEA should define the physician`s working hours, shifts, on-call duties, and vacation time. It should also address issues related to overtime, weekend work, and holidays.
3. Job Responsibilities: The PEA should outline the physician`s duties and responsibilities, including patient care, administrative work, research, and teaching. It should also specify the physician`s role in the organization`s decision-making process.
4. Performance Expectations: The PEA should establish performance expectations and metrics such as productivity, quality of care, patient satisfaction, and compliance with regulations. It may also include provisions for professional development and continuing medical education.
5. Confidentiality and Ethics: The PEA should address issues related to patient privacy, ethical conduct, conflict of interest, and compliance with laws and regulations. It should also specify the process for handling complaints and disputes.
6. Malpractice Insurance: The PEA should specify the malpractice insurance coverage and who pays for it, as well as any additional liability insurance that may be required.
7. Termination and Non-Compete Clauses: The PEA should specify the circumstances under which the agreement can be terminated, and the process for doing so. It should also include any non-compete clauses that may prevent the physician from working for a competitor.
Overall, a PEA is a critical document that requires careful review and negotiation. The AMA provides useful resources and guidance for physicians on how to navigate the often complex and challenging process of negotiating a fair and equitable contract. As a physician, it`s important to work with legal counsel and do your due diligence before signing any employment agreement.