Decoding Work Agreements in Chiropractic Practice: A Comprehensive Guide

Hey there! Today, I’ve got some exciting insights to share with you, particularly for those of you navigating the world of chiropractic practice. I often receive questions from students about how to kickstart their journey in practice, attracting new patients, contributing to the community, and the like. But one question that stands out is about work agreements – what makes a good one, and what should you watch out for?

So, I’ve distilled the essence of work agreements into 12 key components, and I want you to pay special attention to numbers 7, 9, and 11 as they can have a significant impact on your chiropractic career. Based on my experience with doctors working in my office, I’ve seen both successful collaborations and some that didn’t quite hit the mark. Let’s dive into the key elements:

1. Parties Involved

Identify who the agreement is between. Be cautious if there are multiple parties involved, as it can lead to potential disagreements.

2. Contributions to the Practice

Define what each party brings to the table – office space, training, employees, etc. It sets the foundation for a successful collaboration.

3. Compensation and Benefits

Dig into the details of compensation and benefits, including health insurance, 401k, and vacation time. Understand what’s being offered and how it aligns with your needs.

4. Confidentiality Agreement

Ensure there’s a confidentiality agreement in place to protect patient information and practice integrity.

5. Debt and Financial Obligations

Clarify responsibilities regarding financial obligations. Understand if you’re expected to contribute to debts or if the owner handles them.

6. Transferability of the Agreement

Consider whether the agreement is transferable, especially if you plan to move or there’s a change in ownership.

7. Terms of Employment

Pay special attention to how long you’re committing to. Some agreements have time limits, while others focus on the mutual benefits of working together.

8. Entire Agreement Clause

Ensure the agreement is comprehensive and that everything discussed is included. This clause specifies that the written agreement is the entire understanding between the parties.

9. Non-Compete Clause

Understand the non-compete clause, considering its reasonability in terms of distance and duration. This is crucial for both parties’ interests.

10. Dispute Resolution

Know how disagreements will be resolved – whether through trial, arbitration, or another method. This can save both parties time and money.

11. Compensation Raises

Clearly define how compensation raises will be determined. Understand your earning potential and how it aligns with your lifestyle and financial goals.

12. Governing Laws

Specify the governing laws in case of a dispute. This ensures a clear legal framework for conflict resolution.

Remember, a well-crafted work agreement is like an insurance policy – you hope you never need it, but it’s essential to understand what you’re getting into.