Call Coverage in Physician Contracts
Key Takeaways
✅ Clarify how call assignments are made. Don’t assume it's fair unless it’s in writing.
✅ Ask about backup for call relief, especially in smaller communities.
✅ Ensure your contract matches what was promised in your interviews.
Why Does Call Coverage Matter So Much?
Ever heard an attending complain that they’re "always on call"? That’s what happens when call terms aren’t clearly defined. If you don’t spell out the details in your contract, you might end up taking more call shifts than expected; and good luck fixing it once you’ve signed.
What Should Your Contract Say About Call?
Your contract will probably say something vague like, “Physician agrees to participate in call as assigned by the employer.” Sounds harmless, right? Except that wording gives them full control over your schedule.
Instead, your contract should include:
- Equal Rotation: Insist that call be assigned equally among physicians in your group.
- Fair Relief: If you’re a subspecialist (especially in a small town), ask how vacation and call relief will be handled. Will you be the only person covering your specialty?
What Questions Should You Ask About Call?
During interviews, don’t just ask, “How’s the call schedule?” Ask these instead:
- How often is weekend call assigned?
- How are holidays divided up?
- If I’m away on vacation, who covers my call?
- What happens if I’m the only subspecialist available?
You’re not being difficult, you’re making sure you can keep your sanity.
Why Smaller Communities Are Tricky
In smaller towns, subspecialists often face brutal call burdens. Imagine being the only cardiologist or orthopedic surgeon for 60 miles. Even if they promise “reasonable call,” that might mean you are the only one answering the phone.
If you're heading into a rural setting:
✅ Ask how often you'll be on call.
✅ Find out if there's backup from nearby hospitals.
✅ Ask if telemedicine or locum tenens physicians help share the load.
What If They Promise One Thing, But the Contract Says Another?
Verbal promises don’t count. If they told you call would be “one weekend a month” but your contract says “as assigned,” guess which one is binding? Yep, the contract.
Get it in writing. Every time.
Get Smart About Call Before You Sign
Sorting out call coverage isn’t just about protecting your time; it's about protecting your health, your family, and your sanity.
If you're feeling unsure about how to approach this (or any other contract detail), The Real Contract Course can help. This 2-hour video course teaches you how to:
✅ Spot contract red flags.
✅ Ask the right questions in your contract review.
✅ Push for better terms without causing conflict.
Taking this course before you meet your lawyer can save you time, money, and frustration. Be prepared, ask the right questions, and make sure your contract sets you up for success.
