What are our general thoughts about non-compete agreements for those of us NPs who cannot practice independently? Is it reasonable for an employer to not allow you to work for a year and within 30 miles of their practice if you left?
I signed one that was for 18 months and 25 miles for my first private practice job. I was so unhappy there but felt trapped. I eventually quit and now I travel an hour away from home. I have a new offer close to home that sounds great except they say their non-compete is not negotiable. After what I want through before I don't want to sign and may turn it down just because of this reason.
I would like to know if other NPs are accepting this as standard or fighting it? Thanks!
For what it's worth...consult an attorney friend. These "no compete" clauses are de rigueur in so many employment contracts. The expense of pursuing a breech of such a clause by an NP would far exceed the benefit for most LLC's or PA's. This is of course with regard to your switching employers, not "moonlighting". It just is not worth it. Paper tiger, so to speak...
I was told by other NPs NEVER sign a non-compete. Perhaps if the money was sick I may consider it, but there are too many places to work to be worried about a non-compete. Plus, half of the PAs and a few NPs moonlight and I think a non-compete my prevent that - in case you wanted that option
I was told by other NPs NEVER sign a non-compete. Perhaps if the money was sick I may consider it, but there are too many places to work to be worried about a non-compete. Plus, half of the PAs and a few NPs moonlight and I think a non-compete my prevent that - in case you wanted that option
I would have have to agree with this. I've known friends who've gotten screwed by this and honestly think it's dumb. I can't speak for other practices, but in my own experience, I've never seen a bunch of patients leave a practice to follow an NP. I'm sure it happens, but this has been the exception from what I've seen. don't sign!
Non-compete are unenforceable in some states. So you have to see which states they are. People still use non-competes even if they are unenforceable in their states. I would never sign a non-compete since, like some others stated, there are plenty of opportunities.
Nursetonp
67 Posts
What state do you live in?