Use this resource to prepare for your next healthcare opportunity. Adapt the recommendations to your profession, specialty and employer requirements.
Role expectations and patient care
What patient population will I serve? What does a typical day look like? What is the expected patient volume, procedure mix or acuity? How is quality and patient safety supported?
Schedule and call
What are the usual hours and shift expectations? How often is call required, and is it in-house or from home? What happens when a colleague is unavailable? How is additional coverage compensated?
Team and clinical support
Who will I work with daily? What nursing, administrative and specialist support is available? How are consultations, escalation and handoffs handled? What onboarding or mentorship is provided?
Compensation and benefits
How are base pay, productivity, bonuses and call pay determined? What are the eligibility rules, payment dates and repayment obligations? What retirement, insurance, CME and time-off benefits are offered?
Contract terms and malpractice
What is the contract term? How do termination notice, restrictive covenants, professional liability coverage and tail coverage work? Ask a qualified attorney to review binding terms.
Growth, culture and logistics
Why is the position open? How is performance evaluated? What opportunities exist for leadership or professional development? What are the expected credentialing and start-date milestones?
When should I ask about compensation?
It is reasonable to clarify compensation and major contract terms before making a commitment. You can ask for a written breakdown and enough time to review it carefully.