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"Skepticism is the chastity of the intellect and it is shameful to surrender it too soon or to the first comer. There is nobility in preserving it cooly and proudly through long youth, until at last, in the ripeness of instinct and discretion, it can be safely exchanged for fidelity and happiness." George Santayana, Skepticism and Animal Faith, IX.
Elements of a good contract as reported on POL.net are:
Short partnership track. No restrictive covenant.
Fairly equal workload / call.
Small compensation differences between partner and nonpartner
Remember, to the administrator, you are not a doctor but a 'provider.' For that reason, the hospital administrator is NOT your friend. State law has precedence over by-laws, and by-laws are not always enforced.
No one marries blindly. Choose a practice as you choose a mate. Engage in a trial marriage by working locum tenens for a 'date'. Ask doctors who left the practice you are considering what they disliked. Check the books with your accountant. If you don't understand the offer, someone is lying.
Sign only contracts and by-laws with due process in all matters, particularly in peer-review. Only then look for financial incentive. Money is important, but peace of mind is priceless. Better to marry an honest waif than a rich whore. As in marriage, professional marriages have a failure rate. Always have another practice nearby with which you maintain a cordial relationship. That way, your real spouse won't have to re-locate should your professional spouse desert you.
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