Sick Leave - Physician Contract Glossary

Sick Leave

Definition

Paid or unpaid days off for personal illness, injury, or medical appointments.

Examples in Context

“Physician is entitled to ten (10) days of paid sick leave annually. Unused days do not carry over to the following year.”

“In the event the Physician is absent for more than three (3) consecutive days, a medical certification may be required.”

Implications for Physicians

• Ensures financial stability during illness or injury.
• May be merged with PTO in some contracts, reducing overall flexibility.
• Impacts call schedule obligations during extended illness.

Negotiation Tips

• Request clarity on whether unused sick leave is paid out or forfeited.
• Ask if sick leave applies to caring for immediate family members.
• Verify if a doctor’s note is required for extended absences.

Red Flags and Pitfalls

• Limited or no mention of sick leave in the contract.
• Strict limits requiring the physician to find coverage for missed call shifts.
• Sick leave deducted from overall PTO without clear documentation.

Related Terms

• PTO
• Disability Insurance

FAQs

• "Is unused sick leave paid out at termination?"
  • Generally, no. Most employers do not pay unused sick leave unless specified in the contract.
• "Can I use sick leave to care for a family member?"
  • Sometimes. Verify if your contract allows family care as part of sick leave or if you need to use PTO.
• "What if I exhaust my sick leave but still need time off?"
  • You may be required to use PTO, unpaid leave, or apply for disability coverage depending on your contract's terms.

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.