Specialist contracts

How are contracts for specialists different from contracts for generalists?

"Specialists see a more robust compensation and benefits package," says Jim Wilson, DVM, JD, president of Priority Veterinary Management Consultants in Yardley, Pa. "Their salaries are usually higher than most generalists. And board-certified specialists in fields with a short supply of doctors, such as opthamalogists, neurologists, and cardiologists, see even higher salaries." Other differences exist, too, he says:

• While generalists paid on production receive 18 percent to 22 percent, specialists usually receive 23 percent to, occasionally, 40 percent of production, depending on the specialty.

• Board-eligible specialists often receive four to six paid weeks off to study for their boards, with salary increases after passing.

• Continuing education allowances are generally around $2,500 a year with five paid days off for specialists versus a $750 to $1,000 allotment and three days off for general practitioners.

• Specialists receive 15 to 18 days of vacation and personal time versus 10 to 15 days for generalists.

• Some specialist contracts require employers to purchase equipment essential for success within the specialty.

• "Well-drafted contracts usually have restrictive covenants, prohibiting specialists from working in a radius of 10 to 50 miles, and preventing them from soliciting veterinary practices that refer, for example, two or more clients per year," Wilson says.

Dr. James F. Wilson