Ownership and Setting of Fees - Physician Contract Glossary

Ownership and Setting of Fees

Definition

Determines who owns the revenue generated from your services and how patient fees are set.

Examples in Context

“All fees for services rendered by Physician belong solely to Employer.”

“The Employer shall have full discretion in determining the fee schedule for all patient services.”

“Physician acknowledges that all collections for services performed are property of the Employer and will be distributed according to the agreed-upon compensation structure.”

Implications for Physicians

• Directly impacts your earnings if your pay depends on collections or production.
• Determines whether you have a say in adjusting patient fees or billing practices.
• May affect your ability to introduce new services or procedures if fees are controlled.

Negotiation Tips

• Ask for a clear explanation of how fees are set and updated.
• Confirm your percentage share in collection-based models.
• Request regular reports showing collections data if tied to your pay.

Red Flags and Pitfalls

• Lack of clarity on how refunds, chargebacks, or unpaid balances are handled.
• Employer retaining full control of fee setting without physician input.
• No language specifying how disputes regarding billing practices are resolved.

Related Terms

• Stated Salary
• Collection-Based Compensation
• Guaranteed Financial Assistance
• Fair Market Value

FAQs

• “Can I set my own fees?”
  • Typically no unless you are a practice owner or partner. Employed physicians usually follow the employer's fee schedule.
• “How often can my employer change fee schedules?”
  • It varies. Ask for language in your contract requiring notice before fee schedule changes.
• “Can I request a copy of the current fee schedule?”
  • Yes. This is crucial for understanding your potential earnings in collection-based models.

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.