Duties and Responsibilities - Physician Contract Glossary

Duties and Responsibilities

Definition

The tasks, roles, and obligations the physician must fulfill under the contract.

Examples in Context

“The Physician shall provide outpatient care, perform hospital rounds, complete accurate documentation of all patient encounters, and comply with all applicable state and federal regulations.”

“The Physician agrees to participate in administrative meetings, develop practice guidelines, and adhere to quality improvement protocols as directed by the Employer.”

Implications for Physicians

• Defines your core responsibilities and daily workload.
• Outlines expectations for call coverage, administrative work, and clinical hours.
• May impact your work-life balance, especially if duties are vaguely defined.

Negotiation Tips

• Request specific language on duties to avoid vague terms like "other duties as assigned."
• Ask for a limit on administrative or non-clinical responsibilities to focus on patient care.
• Negotiate for fair compensation if duties expand significantly over time.

Red Flags and Pitfalls

• Broad language like “any additional tasks as deemed necessary by Employer” can expose you to unreasonable demands.
• Undefined call coverage obligations may lead to excessive work without additional pay.
• Ambiguous language about off-site duties may increase your workload without proper boundaries.

Related Terms

• Call Coverage
• Ownership and Setting of Fees
• Employment Contract

FAQs

• “Can my employer change my duties after I sign the contract?”
  • Only if your contract allows modifications or if both parties agree in writing. Clarify in advance what constitutes “reasonable” changes.
• “Do I have to handle administrative tasks?”
  • Review your contract. If administrative duties are required, request specifics on expected hours or scope of involvement.
• “What happens if I refuse to perform duties not listed in the contract?”
  • Ensure your contract outlines a clear process for dispute resolution to protect yourself from unreasonable demands.

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.