Community Need Assessment - Physician Contract Glossary
Community Need Assessment
Definition
An evaluation to determine if a geographic area has a shortage of certain physician specialties, often justifying hospital recruitment incentives.
Examples in Context
“The hospital completed a community need assessment indicating a lack of primary care physicians.”
“A community need assessment confirmed the requirement for an additional cardiologist in the designated service area.”
Implications for Physicians
- May lead to more favorable recruitment terms or income guarantees.
- Typically a requirement under federal regulations for certain hospital assistance.
Negotiation Tips
- Request a copy of the need assessment to confirm it aligns with your specialty.
- Verify how long the hospital expects you to practice in that community.
Red Flags and Pitfalls
- Hospital cites “community need” but doesn’t provide real patient volume or support.
- Pressure to remain in an area beyond your original contract term.
Related Terms
FAQs
- “Is a community need assessment legally binding?”
- No, it supports recruitment but isn’t legally binding in itself.
- “Can my contract end if the assessed need changes?”
- Not typically, but the contract may outline terms for reassessment.
- “Can I challenge a community need assessment if I disagree?”
- Yes, you can request supporting data or present alternative evidence.
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.