Call Coverage - Physician Contract Glossary

Call Coverage

Definition

Call coverage outlines your responsibilities for providing on-call services for emergencies or urgent patient care, often including nights, weekends, or holidays.

Examples in Context

“The physician will participate in a 1:5 call schedule, with weekends assigned on a rotating basis among the practice’s employed physicians.”

“The physician’s call duties shall be equally distributed among all physicians within the same specialty, unless otherwise agreed in writing.”

“The physician may be required to provide additional call coverage during unexpected absences of other providers.”

Implications for Physicians

• May add significant working hours without additional pay.
• Can affect work-life balance and increase the risk of burnout.
• Unequal call distribution may unfairly burden new or junior physicians.

Negotiation Tips

• Request specific limits on the frequency and duration of call duties.
• Ask for compensation or time off if you are expected to take excessive call shifts.
• Clarify if call duties include only phone consultation or in-person visits as well.

Red Flags and Pitfalls

• Undefined call schedules may result in excessive call duties.
• Contracts that allow the employer to assign additional call shifts without prior agreement may lead to burnout.
• Failing to negotiate call compensation can result in unpaid overtime.

Related Terms

• Assignment of Patients
• Vacation and Other Leave
• Duties and Responsibilities

FAQs

• “Can I refuse additional call shifts?”
  • Only if your contract includes defined limits on call frequency or allows for opt-out provisions.
• “Should I be paid extra for additional call coverage?”
  • Yes, request specific language in your contract that outlines additional pay or time off if you exceed your agreed-upon call schedule.
• “What happens if my call duties increase significantly?”
  • Request contract language that requires mutual agreement for excessive call increases or that offers additional compensation if call duties become excessive.

Legal Disclaimer

The information provided in this glossary is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, this content is intended to help physicians better understand common contract terms and does not replace professional legal guidance.

For personalized advice regarding your employment contract or other legal concerns, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified attorney who specializes in physician employment contracts.

You can find experienced legal professionals through our Physician Contract Lawyer Directory.