5 Critical Elements for Employment Agreements

Written contracts memorialize the parties' understandings, expectations, rights and obligations during and after the employment relationship. As such, they eliminate or significantly reduce misunderstandings that often result in costly employment disputes. Both parties stand to benefit from the fact that they are operating "on the same page".

The specific terms of any employment contract will depend on various factors, including the employee's position, the extent of the employee's access to confidential patient and business information, and the impact of state laws. Because the applicable laws vary significantly from state to state, employers should have their employment contracts reviewed by legal counsel. Generally speaking, however, healthcare employers should address the following critical elements in their employment contracts.