Contract negotiation is a critical step in shaping your career and financial future. Beyond salary, contracts define responsibilities, benefits, malpractice coverage, and future employment options. Approaching this process with preparation and confidence can make a lasting difference. By understanding common clauses, knowing your market value, and seeking legal guidance, you’ll be better equipped to secure fair terms and avoid pitfalls. Negotiation is not only expected but an opportunity to advocate for yourself and set the foundation for long-term success.
Contract Negotiation
Contract Negotiation Guide for Physiatrists (2025) Negotiating your first (or next) physiatry — PM&R (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation) — contract can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. This guide breaks down the essentials so you know what to expect, what to ask for, and how to protect your career. 1. Get Organized...
3 Keys to Physiatry Contract Negotiation
One of the most damaging financial threats to your career as a physician is the possibility of inadequate compensation through complex payment formulas or a contract containing legal pitfalls that undermine future income. Low compensation and contract loopholes are two of the main reasons almost 50% of physicians leave their employers, according to the 2013 Physician...
Can I Negotiate a Physiatry Contract?
The answer is yes. Virtually all employers are open to hearing questions and requests for changes within your employment contract. The exception to this would be if the physician has already had extensive back-and-forth or negotiation with the employer. If that has happened, the attorney may be limited in how much more to negotiate. In...
Tail Insurance
Tail insurance is a must-have item before you exit your agreement, whether you have it paid through your employer or as an individual policy. Because it is a large expense, many physicians prefer to negotiate it in their employment contract before starting in a new position. As you prepare to leave your job, knowing what...
Before You Sign That Physiatry Contract – Consider the Repayment of Bonuses
Before you sign a contract, it is necessary for physicians to minimize the amount they may be required to repay for bonuses. In the case of exiting a contract, be aware of the requirements to repay sign-on bonuses, residency stipends, relocation reimbursements, or student loan assistance. There are often constraints built into the contract in...
RVU’s for Physiatry – Should We or Shouldn’t We!
The following advice was provided to the question of whether a practice should use RVU’s as a basis for payment to a new doctor: RVUs correlate to CPT Codes, which correlate to income. RVUs are good for physiatry employees whose PM&R practice has low-reimbursing insurance carriers, like Medicaid. In this case, the lack of reimbursement...