It's a new requirement. I took this job over 6 years ago and the hours are M-Th 8-5 and F 8-3:30. "On call" will be for a week at a time. You're expected to be avail 24/7 for that week after office hours and on weekend. It'll go directly to your personal cell, through a designated "on call" number. You'll get no "on call" pay. If you take a ten min phone call, it's 10 min worth of your hourly salary, so like $5.
I have a few issues with it. This was not part of my original contract. I wasn't given an option. I was told I'm now required to do this with no on call pay. I was told I'll have to be a "super planner" if it's my week on call - make sure I have an emergency babysitter in place for my children, be in town, have my phone on me, etc. I'll be doing this every other week. More importantly, my family time is sacred to me. My kids are 1 and 3 years old and I don't want to spend my time out of the office attached to my phone. I want to be fully present with my kids and my husband. I already give 40 hours a week and I'm not sure I'm willing to give up more at this stage in my life. I left the hospital setting for a healthier work life balance, no nights, weekends, and I've loved it, so this really breaks my heart to think this might be while I have to say no and walk away.
Sorry this is so long. I'm obviously struggling with this. Thank you to all that have commented. Means a lot.