December 5, 2013 

Question:

Jennifer,

I'm looking for a new position and have an interview next week and I am expecting a contract.  Any tips for me?

Thanks,
Dr. A

Answer:

Sure, here are a few -

  • Take some time before your interview to consider what type of environment and work culture you are looking for  - ex. do you want to work in a small, intimate work environment or are you comfortable working for a large or institutional type employer?  Are you looking for a place where you can advance to partnership or management level? 
  • Perform your own due diligence before you interview - start online - check out online reviews from patients, search the owners, see what is available on facebook, check for malpractice or other lawsuits, see whether any of the physicians at the practice have been disciplined by licensure (for NY MD, DO - check here http://w3.health.state.ny.us/opmc/factions.nsf/physiciansearch?openform,  for NY other licensees (DPM, DC, PT, RN, NP - check here http://www.op.nysed.gov/opd/rasearch.htm#name)   . 
  • Be sure to interview at the location you will be working at so that you can evaluate the environment and amenities.  When you are there, try to talk and get a sense of the other staff members.  Ask how long staff has been working for the employer and whether there is frequent turnover. If so, may be a sign the employer runs a leaky ship. While you are at the practice, make sure to be cognizant of behavior and stress levels of employees and patients.
  • Think outside the box regarding your skill set and be ready to negotiate.  Maybe you have experience with EHR or quality assurance planning as a result of recent residency or fellowship training, and maybe your potential employer has no such experience - leverage what you can!
  • Have the terms of your employment reviewed sooner rather than later. Oftentimes clients are annoyed we are not able to negotiate a lot of terms with landlords once the client has entered into a letter of intent or confidentiality agreement with the Landlord, which is why you have to negotiate from the initial instance, and you will likely fare best with counsel assisting from the get-go.  Yes, you are required to have a contract.  Never sign anything you do not understand, and avoid doing so by having your contract reviewed, explained to you and negotiated.
Of course the above are basic areas of concern for you consideration and certainly not meant to represent an exclusive list.  Should you have any additional questions,  please do not hesitate to contact me or Erica to discuss.