Length of Restriction - Physician Contract Glossary

Length of Restriction

Definition

The duration a non-compete, confidentiality, or restrictive covenant applies after your contract ends.

Examples in Context

“The non-compete clause shall remain in effect for 12 months following the termination of the physician’s employment.”

“The physician agrees not to solicit former patients or staff members for a period of 18 months post-termination.”

“Confidential information shared during employment may not be disclosed for 24 months after termination.”

Implications for Physicians

• Longer restrictions may limit career flexibility and delay the ability to establish a new practice nearby.
• Extended restrictions can affect your ability to re-establish a referral network or retain former patients.

Negotiation Tips

• Request a maximum restriction period of 12 months, or 6 months for hospital-employed physicians.
• Ensure the restriction period starts upon **notice of termination**, not the end of your notice period, to minimize delays.
• Ask for exemptions for specific roles, such as academic medicine, telemedicine, or volunteer work.

Red Flags and Pitfalls

• Restrictions longer than 2 years are rarely enforceable and may signal overly aggressive contract terms.
• Vague language in the contract may extend restrictions beyond what is legally reasonable.

Related Terms

• Covenant Not to Compete
• Geographic Scope
• Restricted Activities

FAQs

• “Can I negotiate a shorter restriction period?”
  • Yes, especially if you’ve maintained good relationships during employment. Requesting a 6-12 month limit is often reasonable.
• “Are there exceptions to non-compete time limits?”
  • Yes. Some states restrict non-compete enforcement entirely or limit terms based on your specialty or employer type.
• “What happens if my employer merges with another group?”
  • Clarify whether the restriction still applies under the new ownership or if renegotiation is required.

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.