Job Contract Negotiation: Non-Salary Items to Consider

Maximize your job offer by negotiating beyond salary. Learn what non-salary items you should consider to enhance your contract terms.

By: Jennifer Bepple, MD MMCi

Published: Feb 2, 2023

📂 Physician Perspectives

Written for:

✅ Residents and Fellows

✅ Early Career Physicians

✅ Mid Career Physicians

✅ Established Professionals

When evaluating or negotiating a job offer, salary is only one piece of the puzzle. Be sure to also consider the benefits, work schedule, sign-on and relocation bonuses, equipment and professional development opportunities that are available to get the most value out of your next contract. Make a priority list of must-haves and nice-to-haves before starting negotiations and research the company and its policies for the most informed negotiation possible.

Benefits

Benefits may seem fairly obvious, but they can have a significant financial impact on job satisfaction and quality of life. Make sure to consider benefits such as employer contributions to an IRA, malpractice insurance, disability and health insurance coverage, parental leave policies, and the duration of the leave.

Work Schedule

Know your needs. Consider negotiating an alternative work schedule such as a three- or four-day work week. Ask if there are opportunities to do telehealth and have remote work. Negotiate call responsibilities, including a maximum amount of call, and whether you are responsible for paying for coverage when you are on leave. Don’t forget to discuss the amount of paid time off.

Sign-On/Relocation Bonus

Moving can be very expensive and many companies offer relocation bonuses to offset this cost and entice you to their area. But if you accept this, know if there is anything tied to it, such as a minimum amount of time of employment.

Equipment

Some specialists require certain supplies that help them to be successful. Ensure you have everything you need to provide the best possible care.

Professional Development

Consider reimbursement allowances for CME as well as maintaining membership in specialty societies. Professional development opportunities can include additional certifications, trainings, conferences, and workshops, as well as leadership courses and mentorship programs.

A word of advice: Know Your Worth!

Combining your salary, benefits, and non-salary items will help craft a job offer that meets your needs and gets you the most value out of your next contract. Knowing your worth, and understanding the different items available in negotiating a job offer, will have an important impact on your quality of life. 

Jennifer Bepple, MD, MMCi, is a board-certified urologist and CEO of MedTech Consulting. She helps companies develop patient-centered digital health solutions to bridge the gap between technology and healthcare. Jennie holds a Master of Management in Clinical Informatics from Duke University, a certification from the American Board of Telehealth, and is a member of the American Telemedicine Association, American Urologic Association, and American Medical Informatics Association. She also serves on the board for Ohana One, and is a founding member of Andwise’s Medical Advisory Board.

Jennifer Bepple
Jennifer Bepple
Jennifer Bepple

Jennifer Bepple, MD, MMCi ⇨

Member, Andwise Medical Advisory Board

Dr. Jennifer Bepple, MD, MMCi, stands out in the medical community as a board-certified urologist and Chief Medical Officer with a deep commitment to enhancing healthcare through technology. Her educational background includes a medical degree and residency in urology from Eastern Virginia Medical School, complemented by a Master of Management in Clinical Informatics from Duke University. Dr. Bepple's dedication to digital health innovation is evident in her roles as a medical advisor for Verana Health, Chief Medical Informatics Officer at Virtucare, and Chief Medical Officer at Allai Health.

Recognized for her contributions to telehealth as a "Top Clinician to Follow in the Telehealth Space," Dr. Bepple actively engages in the intersection of medicine and technology. Her work focuses on developing digital health solutions that prioritize patient care while leveraging the potential of Artificial Intelligence and Informatics. As a member of key associations such as the American Telemedicine Association, American Urologic Association, and American Medical Informatics Association, she champions the advancement of digital health practices.

Furthermore, Dr. Bepple's involvement with Ohana One, a non-profit organization that utilizes Virtual Reality technology for surgical training globally, highlights her commitment to improving medical education and international healthcare standards. Her extensive licensure across states like Illinois, Tennessee, Montana, Virginia, and Maryland underscores her broad impact on the healthcare system, both within traditional medical practice and innovative healthcare technology solutions

Ready to take the next step? From Resident to Practicing Physician: Understanding Employment Contracts

With Chuck Kable, JD 🟢

1. Book Your Session

2. Unpack Employment Contracts

3. Secure Favorable Contract Terms

Choose a Time 🚀

Mastering Your First Employment Agreement: Tailored for newly graduated doctors about to sign their first employment contracts, emphasizing understanding over negotiation.

As you transition from medical school and residency to your first position as a practicing physician, navigating employment contracts is crucial. This session delves into the essentials of employment agreements, focusing on clauses such as non-compete, compensation structures, and malpractice insurance implications. Equip yourself with the knowledge to take control of your career.  Learn not just what your contract means, but how to manage it and your new employer to set yourself up for maximum flexibility with minimum hassle.

Disclaimer: This educational session provides general information on employment contracts in healthcare and is not intended to substitute for professional legal advice. No attorney-client relationship will be created by attending this session. Consult a licensed attorney for advice on specific legal issues.

Read more by Jennifer Bepple, MD MMCi

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