On-call duties can significantly impact a physician's work-life balance and job satisfaction. Before signing any contract, it's essential to thoroughly understand the specifics of your on-call responsibilities and make sure they are listed out in the contract itself.
Here's a breakdown of what to consider:
Frequency and Length of Call Shifts: Understand how often you'll be on call and for how long each shift lasts. This information will help you plan your personal time effectively. Discuss whether these call shifts have a separate compensation package or if they are included in your overall compensation.
Patient Coverage: Clarify who you'll be covering during your on-call shifts. Are you responsible for the entire department, specific patients, or just your own caseload?
Evaluation and Communication: Determine whether you'll need to assess patients in person or if remote evaluation methods like photo assessments are acceptable. Additionally, know how communication will be handled, whether you'll hold a pager or communicate after patient contact.
Access to Resources: Find out if you'll have access to electronic medical records from home or if you'll need to be onsite to review patient records.
Support Staff: Inquire about the availability of support staff, such as medical assistants or nursing hotlines, to assist with patient care during on-call hours. Are these staff members being compensated by the practice for their time?
Academic Settings: If you're in an academic setting, understand which faculty members rotate call shifts, whether rounding with residents/fellows is required (in person vs just communicating by phone), and if you'll receive compensation for on-call duties.
Private Practice Considerations: In private practice, clarify whether you're responsible for all patients or just your own. Discuss any expectations for being on call 24/7 and arrangements for coverage if you need to leave the city.
Ultimately, clear communication and understanding of on-call expectations are essential for a successful physician role. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification before committing to on-call duties in your contract.