Physicians, Before You Resign…
// Dallas, Texas, United States // Attorney Keith Clouse // Keith Clouse
A doctor planning a professional move must take steps to ensure that the transition proceeds smoothly. Dallas employment lawyer Keith Clouse—who regularly works with doctors on employment law issues—suggests that a doctor considering a professional move:
1. Review all documents he has signed so that he understands the conditions that impact his resignation. A doctor may be obligated to give significant notice of his resignation and will likely be impacted by a non-compete provision. The doctor needs to determine whether he plans to comply with the non-compete agreement or whether he intends to buy out his covenant not to compete.
2. Work with the employer to plan for patient notification and the transfer of patient records. The parties will likely wish to establish a clear understanding regarding copy fees and the information to be conveyed in letters, in-office placards, electronic communications, and in-person communications.
3. Ensure that he understands his malpractice insurance coverage and how his resignation impacts it.
4. Consider his patients’ needs. A doctor should strive to ensure that his departure and its timing cause minimal problems for his patients.
5. Consult with an employment lawyer who regularly advises physicians. An employment lawyer can advise the doctor regarding his obligations as well as negotiate the buy-out of a non-compete agreement.
This article is presented by the Dallas employment attorneys at Clouse Dunn LLP. To speak to an employment lawyer about a physician employment agreement, send an email to debra@clousedunn.com or call (214) 239-2705.
Contact Keith Clouse
KEITH A. CLOUSE
Clouse Dunn LLP
214.220.2722 214.220.3833 ( fax) keith@clousedunn.com
