We review a lot of physician contracts which contain non-compete restrictions. If the contract is offered to a “new” doctor just out of his/her residency or fellowship program, we always suggest to our clients that they give serious thought to the potential situation where they move their entire family to a new city, find the cost of living and amenities perfect for the family, but 1 to 2 years later find the working conditions, personalities, financial realities, etc., so bad they hate to go to work. What are their options? If the non-compete is enforceable, they may have to move their family to a new city in order to earn a living and feed the family. Most new doctors don’t think about this situation until it is too late.
If you are a medical professional starting your career, it would be wise to have your employment agreement/non-compete contract reviewed by an experienced lawyer. Know what you are signing and what effects that document can have on your professional choices and options, and how it might affect your family down the road.