Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/111490
thinking About Becoming a hospital employee? by Laura a. brady, esq. AS considerations for Your employment agreement tHe HealtHcare industry continues to evolve in response to recent legislation and other influences, doctors find themselves in a different environment than when many of them began practice. In the not too distant past, doctors preferred to serve their communities either as solo practitioners or in a group practice. However, the increasing cost of healthcare services, uncertain future of reimbursement rates, and the additional costs associated with new legislation are driving doctors away ��� in what seems like droves ��� from the traditional employment model to become employees. While the main objective of both parties is to provide the community first-rate medical care, the objectives of the employer potentially conflict with those of the doctor in negotiating the specific terms of the employment agreement. A doctor thinking about taking that step should be aware of some of the following considerations when negotiating and entering into an employment agreement: What will be the initial length of the agreement? Will it be extended automatically? Wi l l t here b e a probat iona r y trial period? Does the agreement accurately delineate the doctor���s scope of duties? How will the employer compensate the doctor for his or her services? Does the compensation include bonuses? For what expenses will the employer +++++++++++++++++++ +++ + +++ ��� LEGAL-EASE + +++++++++++++++++++ reimburse the doctor? Who will pay for malpractice insurance tail coverage? Will t he doctor be prohibited from moonlighting? What are the terms of any covenants not to compete, confidentiality, or nonsolicitation provisions? Under what terms will the employment agreement be terminated? Who will retain patient records upon termination and will notice be given to patients? What will happen if the doctor dies or becomes disabled, either permanently or temporarily, during employment? The employment agreement should address all of the above. Doctors who opt for employment should seek advice of counsel in negotiating their employment agreements. Laura A. Brady is an attorney with the Healthcare Practice Section at the law firm of Krugliak, Wilkins, Griffiths & Dougherty Co., LPA. ���