Vacation Policy - Physician Contract Glossary

Vacation Policy

Definition

A set number of days or weeks you can take off with full pay each year.

Examples in Context

“Physician is entitled to three weeks of paid vacation annually, not accruable year to year.”

“Physician may request vacation leave in accordance with Employer's scheduling policy, subject to patient care needs.”

Implications for Physicians

• Impacts rest and personal time.
• Some employers combine vacation with PTO or other leave types.
• Limited vacation may affect your overall work-life balance.

Negotiation Tips

• Ask for clarity on prime vacation periods (e.g., summer or holidays).
• Confirm if unused vacation is paid out upon termination.
• Check if seniority increases your vacation allowance.

Red Flags and Pitfalls

• Mandatory scheduling around group needs can reduce actual vacation opportunities.
• Contracts that fail to mention unused vacation payouts may result in lost benefits.
• Employers limiting vacation to "slow periods" may hinder time off during preferred seasons.

Related Terms

• PTO
• Call Coverage (affects when you can be away)

FAQs

• “Can I split my vacation days?”
  • Most employers allow this, but policies may require taking full weeks at a time.
• “What happens to unused vacation days?”
  • Some contracts allow payout for unused days, while others follow a "use it or lose it" policy. Confirm these details in advance.</li

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.