Protect Yourself With Our Physician Contract Review Services
At Malecki Brooks Ford Law Group, LLC, we stand by health care professionals as they navigate the complexities of physician contracts. We believe that every physician deserves a contract that not only reflects the value of their knowledge and experience but also supports their career aspirations and personal needs. As you engage in contract negotiations or renewals, our attorneys are here to scrutinize the fine print, ensuring that your agreements are equitable and comply with all legal standards.
We recognize that contracts are more than just paperwork; they are the foundation of your professional practice and security. Our firm, founded in 2017 with attorneys boasting over 300 years of combined legal experience, brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. This experience includes insights from former in-house counsel and compliance officers, providing a comprehensive review that addresses all aspects of your contract, from compensation and benefits to duties and termination provisions.
We advise clients throughout Illinois, the Midwest and nationwide. Our dedication to health care providers is unwavering, and we partner with you to ensure your professional interests are protected and advanced.
Protecting Your Interests And Rights
Physician employment contracts and agreements can have a long-term impact on a physician’s career, regardless of whether the physician is graduating from a residency program or is moving on to another opportunity. Attorneys Melinda Malecki, Aileen Brooks and Ann Ford have many years of experience in reviewing and advising physicians on their employment agreements.
Physicians of any specialty or subspecialty can rely upon Malecki Brooks Ford to provide them with experienced counsel on all provisions of their employment agreement, including the following:
- Compensation: We can provide clarity on how an agreement’s compensation provision is structured and what each subsection means (i.e., base salary, bonus, RVU requirements, and other items).
- Professional Liability Insurance Requirements: We can answer your questions on the “tail” insurance language that is in the professional or malpractice liability insurance section.
- Restrictive Covenants: Each state approaches restrictive covenants, including non-compete agreements, very differently. The attorneys at Malecki Brooks Ford are current on the evolving law of restrictive covenants and especially on how they affect physician employment agreements.
- Term and Termination: We can advise you on the terms and termination provisions of the agreement.
- Legal Duties: Employers may expect an employed physician to perform several duties and tasks besides seeing patients, such as complying with billing and coding guidelines and adhering to certain quality metrics. Malecki Brooks Ford can help you understand what each duty entails and how it may apply to your employment situation.
If requested, Malecki Brooks Ford can provide further services and negotiate a contract on behalf of a physician. Our attorneys at Malecki Brooks Ford understand how physician employment agreements affect a physician’s career. We strive to ensure that you also fully understand.
Why Have An Attorney Review Your Contract?
Understanding physician contracts and employment agreements on your own is a daunting task, especially for new physicians. Engaging an attorney to review the contract offers numerous benefits. A lawyer can ensure the contract complies with state and federal laws. Perhaps more importantly, they can help you identify ambiguous language or clauses that may be detrimental to your professional and financial interests.
Additionally, an attorney brings a wealth of experience to the negotiating table. On your behalf, they can advocate for fair compensation, meaningful benefits and work conditions that align with industry standards.
Another advantage is offering peace of mind by helping to mitigate potential future conflicts. These contracts contain clauses, call schedules and malpractice insurance details that could impact your career. Our team can clarify these points and provide strategic advice, helping to ensure you are fully informed before signing.
Skilled Representation For New Physicians
For new physicians, the excitement of securing a first job can sometimes overshadow the importance of a thorough contract review. The urge to sign on immediately is natural but could lead to challenges. Examples include:
- Being bound to unfavorable work hours or shifts
- Not being paid fairly for your skills, training and contributions
- Facing restrictive clauses that hinder future career opportunities
New physicians should have their contracts reviewed by an attorney who understands the complexities of health care law. Your lawyer can provide advice tailored to your unique situation, prioritizing critical terms, such as:
- Compensation: Help to ensure fair and competitive salary and benefits
- Work schedule: Clarify working hours, on-call schedules and time-off policies
- Termination provisions: Define grounds for termination and notice period
- Job description: Clearly outline duties and responsibilities
- Malpractice insurance: Facilitate adequate coverage and clarity over who bears the cost
- Continuing education: Include support for professional career development
- Future opportunities: Address potential for promotions or other advancements
Even if the contract seems fair, there may be room for improvement. Our experienced attorneys know what to ask for and how to present requests effectively on behalf of new physicians and those at all stages of practicing medicine. A well-negotiated contract helps set a firm foundation for a successful and satisfying career.
Secure Your Professional Future, Contact Us Today
Do not leave your contract to chance. With Malecki Brooks Ford, you have a team of attorneys ready to ensure your physician contracts serve your best interests. Contact us today to receive a meticulous review of your agreements. Whether you are starting a new position, transitioning practices or ensuring compliance with current legal standards, our team is here to provide the assurance and clarity you need. The following attorneys provide contract review services for physicians:
Call 630-912-6146 or use our online contact form to get in touch with us. We are committed to offering you the personalized attention and legal support that will empower you in all your contractual endeavors. Let Malecki Brooks Ford be your advocate and guide in the legal landscape of health care.