Reviewing the PA Job Offer/Contract
Understanding the nuances of the PA job offer/contract is essential not only to protect your professional rights and interests but also to establish a solid foundation for a mutually beneficial working relationship with your prospective employer.
From analyzing the contract terms to evaluating the compensation package and considering additional benefits, each aspect plays a vital role in shaping your experience as a PA.
Whether you have received a verbal job offer or a comprehensive written contract, the principles and considerations outlined here will empower you to make informed decisions about your future employment.
I. Understanding the Job Offer
a) Verbal vs. Written Job Offer
A verbal job offer is typically conveyed through a conversation with the employer or their representative. While this may be an exciting moment, it is crucial to remember that verbal offers are often preliminary and subject to change. It is essential to request a written job offer to solidify the terms and have a clear reference for future discussions.
Written job offer: A written job offer provides a detailed outline of the employment terms and conditions. It includes information about compensation, benefits, job responsibilities, and other essential aspects of the position. When you receive a written offer, take the time to carefully review it, as this document will serve as a reference point throughout your employment.
Reviewing the Offer Letter: When reviewing the job offer, pay close attention to the accuracy and completeness of the offer letter. Ensure that the details, such as your name, start date, and position title, are correct. Take note of any contingencies or conditions, such as obtaining necessary licensure or passing background checks.
b) Requesting a Written Offer
If you initially received a verbal offer, it is crucial to request a written offer from the employer. This formal document will provide a comprehensive understanding of the terms and protect both parties by establishing a clear agreement.
It is within your rights as a prospective employee to ask for a written offer before making any final decisions.
Subject:
Request for Written Job Offer – [Your Name]
Email:
Dear [Employer/Contact's Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to express my gratitude for the opportunity to join [Company/Organization Name] as a physician assistant. Our recent conversation regarding the job offer has left me eager to move forward and contribute to the team.
To ensure a clear understanding of the terms and conditions of my employment, I kindly request a written job offer.
I appreciate the verbal details we discussed, and I believe that a written offer will help solidify our agreement. This document will allow me to review the terms thoroughly, ensure accuracy, and make an informed decision regarding my acceptance of the position.
I look forward to receiving the written job offer and continuing our positive discussions. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
c) Timelines to Review a PA Job Offer
While there isn't a fixed timeline, it is generally advisable to respond within a reasonable timeframe to maintain professionalism and keep the process moving smoothly.
Once you receive the WRITTEN job offer, the time starts ticking to provide the employer with a response.
There should be a minimum of 5-7 business days for you to respond.
Being provided less than 48 hours to respond may make it difficult to review the compensation package and seek legal counsel if necessary.
Promptly Review the Offer: Upon receiving a written job offer, promptly review the details of the offer and contract. Take the time to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions outlined. This initial review can be done within a few days to ensure you have a good grasp of the offer.
Evaluate the Offer: Once you have reviewed the offer and contract, take the time to evaluate it thoroughly. Consider factors such as job responsibilities, compensation package, benefits, and other important aspects that align with your needs and goals. This evaluation process may take a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of the offer and your personal circumstances.
Seek Clarification or Negotiation: If there are any aspects of the offer or contract that require clarification or negotiation, reach out to the employer promptly. Engage in open and respectful communication to address any concerns or discuss potential changes to the terms. This back-and-forth dialogue may take a few days.
Make an Informed Decision: Once you have gathered all the necessary information, take the time to weigh the pros and cons of the offer and evaluate it in relation to your career aspirations and personal circumstances. Consider seeking advice from trusted mentors or colleagues if needed. This decision-making process may take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Respond in a Timely Manner: Once you have made your decision, it is important to respond to the employer in a timely manner. Promptly inform them of your decision to either accept the offer or decline it. Aim to provide a response within a week of reaching your decision, unless otherwise agreed upon with the employer.
II. Craft your “ideal PA Job Offer” before entering negotiations
Crafting your "ideal PA job offer" before going into contract negotiation is a valuable exercise that can help you define your priorities, set clear expectations, and advocate for your needs effectively.
Copy and paste the template below and complete the exercise “My Ideal PA Job Offer”.
MY IDEAL PA JOB OFFER EXERCISE
Position: Physician Assistant
Ideal Specialties: Include the top specialties you hope to work in (e.g. 1) family medicine, 2) ED, 3) Orthopaedic Surgery).
Status: Full Time, Permanent
Ideal Practice Location: Evaluate your preferences regarding the geographical location of the position (urban vs. rural, close to your current place or residence, or your willingness to move).
Salary Range: $___ to $___ /year (be sure to include a minimum and maximum range)
Benefits: Define what type of benefits (e.g. medical/dental/vision, extended health care benefits), or if benefits not offered what % off in lieu of benefits (e.g. 14%) so you can pay for medical expenses out of pocket or purchase your own personal health insurance plan.
Work Schedule: Define your ideal work hours and schedule, taking into account any preferences for evenings, weekends, or shifts.
Scope of Practice and Autonomy: Outline the specific tasks and procedures you would like to be involved in. Outline the specific tasks and procedures you would like to be involved in (which may evolve over time)
CME Funding & Paid Education Days: Determine the amount of financial support you would like for continuing medical education. Specify the number of paid education days you would like for attending conferences, workshops, or pursuing additional certifications. (e.g. 5 paid education days)
Vacation Days: Identify the number of vacation days you would like annually, considering your personal obligations and need for rest and rejuvenation (e.g. 3 weeks paid vacation to start for new PA graduates)
Opportunities for Advancement: Determine if you have aspirations for growth within the organization and if there are opportunities for advancement (e.g. teaching, precepting, research, academia, quality improvement projects)
You can objectively assess the terms of the contract offered against your ideal criteria. It helps you evaluate whether the offer meets your expectations and allows you to make informed decisions based on a well-thought-out framework.
III. Analyze the PA Employment Contract
Once you've received a written job offer, it's time to delve into the details of the PA contract.
Here are some key points to consider when reviewing your PA contract:
Job Responsibilities and Scope of Practice: Carefully review the section outlining your specific job responsibilities and the scope of practice allowed within the practice. Ensure that it aligns with your qualifications, skills, and professional goals (e.g. clarify if the role seems more administrative than clinical). If there are any ambiguities or concerns, seek clarification from your prospective employer.
Supervision and Collaborative Agreements: The employer may include a PA/MD supervisory agreement, or a clause within the contract stating the nature of the PA/MD supervisory relationship. Understand the level of supervision, the reporting structure, and the expectations for collaboration to ensure you can work effectively within the team.
Non-Compete Clauses: Pay attention to any non-compete clauses that may restrict your ability to practice in a specific geographic area or within a certain timeframe after leaving the practice. Evaluate the potential impact these restrictions may have on your future job opportunities. If the non-compete clause seems overly restrictive, consider negotiating its terms or seeking legal advice.
Salary: The salary offered should align with your experience, qualifications, and the local market rates for PAs. Research the average PA salaries in your area to ensure that the offer is competitive. Consider factors such as cost of living, specialty demand, and years of experience when assessing the salary.
Benefits: Evaluate the benefits included in the compensation package. Health insurance coverage, retirement plans/matching, pension, and malpractice insurance are essential considerations. Ensure that the offered benefits meet your personal and financial needs.
Continuing Medical Education (CME) Funding and Paid Education Days: CME funding and paid education days are crucial for professional development and staying updated with the latest medical advancements. Review the CME funding allocation provided by the employer, as well as the number of paid education days granted per year. Consider whether these resources adequately support your desire for ongoing learning and career growth.
Vacation Days and Time Off: Evaluate the number of vacation days and any additional time-off policies outlined in the contract. Assess whether the allotted time off aligns with your work-life balance expectations and personal needs. Consider factors such as holidays, weekends, and potential flexibility in scheduling time off.
Termination and severance: Examining the provisions related to termination, probationary periods, notice periods, severance pay, and any non-disparagement or non-disclosure clauses.
Dispute resolution: Reviewing the methods of resolving disputes, such as arbitration or litigation, and assessing their fairness and practicality.
As you review the compensation package, remember to consider the overall value of the offer beyond just the salary. A comprehensive package that includes competitive pay, attractive benefits, and opportunities for professional development can greatly enhance your job satisfaction and long-term career prospects.
IV. Negotiate the Contract
Negotiating the terms of your PA contract can be an empowering step in ensuring a mutually beneficial agreement between you and your prospective employer.
By advocating for your needs and priorities, you can set the foundation for a successful and satisfying working relationship
Identify Your Needs: Before entering into negotiations, take the time to identify your needs, priorities, and deal-breakers. Consider factors such as salary, benefits, work schedule, scope of practice, and opportunities for growth. Understanding your non-negotiables and areas open for discussion will help you articulate your requirements effectively. See section II above on “Crafting your Ideal PA Job Offer”.
Research and Preparation: Thoroughly research industry standards, market rates, and common contract terms for PAs in your specialty and location. This knowledge will provide you with a solid foundation for negotiating from a position of knowledge and confidence. Prepare a list of questions and specific points you'd like to address during the negotiation process.
Professional and Respectful Communication: Approach the negotiation process with professionalism and respect. Maintain open lines of communication with the employer and express your interests and concerns in a clear and courteous manner. Active listening and constructive dialogue can help foster a collaborative atmosphere that increases the likelihood of reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.
Seek Legal Advice: If you encounter complex contract terms or legal language that you're unsure about, consider seeking legal advice from a healthcare attorney. They can provide guidance on understanding the implications of certain clauses and ensure that the contract aligns with legal requirements and protects your professional interests.
Seek advice from PA colleagues/mentors: These individuals have firsthand experience in the field and can provide insights, perspectives, and practical advice based on their experience with PA employment and contract negotiation.
Flexibility and Compromise: Negotiation is a process of finding common ground. Be prepared to offer compromises where appropriate while still advocating for your needs. Look for creative solutions that address both parties' interests and seek win-win outcomes whenever possible.
Get Agreements in Writing: Once the negotiation process is complete and both parties have reached a mutually acceptable agreement, ensure that all agreed-upon terms are documented in writing. Review the final contract carefully to confirm that it accurately reflects the negotiated terms and conditions.
Final notes
It's crucial to approach the review and negotiation process with a proactive mindset. Advocate for yourself and seek clarification when needed. Engage in open and transparent communication with your prospective employer to establish a mutually beneficial agreement.
Remember that every job offer/contract is unique, and what may be an ideal offer for one person may not be the same for another. Consider your personal circumstances, career aspirations, and overall well-being when making decisions.
