Amanda B. Hill’s Post

I hear it all the time - "I didn't learn any of this in residency!" Residents sit on the edge of their chair, stunned by the negotiation strategies I teach, lessons on leverage, and tips on how they can stay out of trouble. New doctors simply aren't prepared for the real world of contract negotiation, they don't know what legal agreements can hurt them, they have no idea how to enter and exit business deals. Doctors are often naive. --> Maybe you end up signing a business deal you think you generally understand, but the details are fuzzy. --> You know a lawyer drafted it, so it must be okay. --> Everyone is doing this type of arrangement and getting this side hustle money, so why shouldn't you? These are dangerous statements, because they can lead to trouble. A few years ago I created a company dedicated to helping doctors. I have been a healthcare attorney for over 20 years at that point, had a booming business, but I felt like something was seriously wrong. We should not set up a system where doctors are just thrown into the world of medicine, create a void where costly mistakes and problems are bound to arise, and just expect they will hire lawyers to clean up those messes and learn. I know that's counterintuitive coming from a lawyer, but in all honesty I'd rather have doctors following the rules, staying out of trouble, and coming to me for strategy, planning, word-smithing, and prevention, not a crisis that we have to work hard to unravel. I want doctors to be self sufficient, know more about their own worth and how to communicate it, better recognize a problematic business deal, and not always have to run to us lawyers at every turn. We will always have a place. But we should not be the only solution. The problem is, the world is crowded. There is a lot of BAD advice and training out there, and frankly, a lot of it taught is simply dull. You don't have time to sit through another course, despite needing CME. You would rather hire a lawyer if and when you need it. But that is short sighted. If you don't learn to issue spot or negotiate with strength, you are leaving tens of thousands of dollars on the table, or will end up reimbursing the government more than you expected, or you'll lose out on a great buy-out because you didn't understand the documents. I created videos to help unravel mysteries, teach doctors how and what can get you in trouble, and help you stay safe. I save you money. I teach you how to stand up for yourself. This is the best resource you can buy to guard your own practice. Every GMP video is 15 minutes long so you won't get overwhelmed, with 3-4 bullet points in every video, w/ a quiz at the end. I even got CME approved for each video through the AAFP. They are bundled together into courses that hit the specific pain point you are facing. Buy a course. It's a business expense, you can get it reimbursed if you have CME money, and it's an investment in your future. www.guardmypractice.com

I got the inside scoop this week from a very large national company on how many doctors actually negotiate their employment agreements. Fifty percent. HALF OF DOCTORS JUST SIGN THEM. I was pushing hard for changes in a doctor's contract. While they made a ton of changes (whoop!) they wouldn't budge on one that was important. So I called and explained that what I'm asking for is absolutely common, and explained why, and that my doctor can't sign an agreement that leaves her hanging without a clear exit. Y'all know that I preach this. Find the back door to every agreement. Have a clear exit out. I pick my battles. I don't fight every fight. But certain things you have to push for. She lowered her voice on the phone, like someone was listening. She said, honest truth, "I can tell from your edits that you are a very good lawyer, so I made changes to this agreement I normally wouldn't." While I'm honored by the compliment at my legal skills, this is ridiculous. Doctors should be getting fair contracts regardless if they have a good lawyer or not. We got that change. My client was thrilled. But ladies and gentlemen, this isn't enough. This is one doctor. We need ALL doctors to negotiate with an educated mind. Everyone needs to know the secret sauce. You have earned the right to be treated like the professional you are. Today on my contracts power hour call with doctors, this is what I heard: --> I made the biggest mistake the first time around when I didn't negotiate my contract --> I don't understand if my contract renews or if it expired, and I don't know what steps to take now. Y'all, we need to do a better job educating doctors on contracts. Period. What I'm learning as I'm talking to doctors around the country is that they are tired. --> Tired of not understanding contracts and getting screwed. --> Tired of being taken advantage of. --> Tired of trusting others who don't deserve to be trusted. And frankly, tired of hiring lawyers all the damn time. At $500+ an hour, it gets expensive. What if you just want to sit down and learn some of the basics and save money, and only hire lawyers when you need them? So here's the deal - I have a short course on contracts and a longer course on contracts. I have talks I've given on negotiation. I have handouts I've created to help you. I COMBINED THEM TOGETHER. That's right. I'm going to put all my ammunition, all my videos, everything I have ever learned about contracts in one course. Why hold back? You need this now. The cost is $250. You get an amazing collection of online material that I've created, and you get a ticket to come to one of my live group calls. There is nothing like this. It's so much cheaper than hiring a qualified healthcare attorney. Please sign up before it's too late. Tell every resident you know. We are in a healthcare crisis, and help is on the way.

Understanding the importance of contract optimization for residents and fellows. Contract optimization is paramount as you start the pivotal transition from medical training to independent practice During this critical phase, securing a contract that aligns with your professional, financial, and lifestyle goals is essential for setting a strong foundation for your career. You have invested years of rigorous training, accumulating significant student debt along the way Optimizing your contract ensures you receive fair compensation that reflects your expertise, dedication, and market value. Negotiating salary, bonuses, and benefits can alleviate financial stress, allowing you to focus on patient care and your professional development Contract optimization extends beyond monetary considerations. It encompasses aspects such as: - workload, - call schedules, - vacation time, - opportunities for continuing education and - career advancement Understanding the legal and contractual intricacies is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring you don't get into trouble along the way. With guidance, residents and fellows can navigate the negotiation process confidently, while avoiding potential pitfalls Ultimately, by prioritizing contract optimization, you will have peace of mind, knowing that your contract is tailored to support your needs. By being proactive you lay the groundwork for a successful and fulfilling career in medicine And... that's it! If you learned something: 1. Follow and learn more tomorrow 2. Share it with your friends and keep it from your enemies (hahaha) 3. Learn more today in 'The Real Contract' Course

Understanding the importance of contract optimization for residents and fellows. Contract optimization is paramount as you start the pivotal transition from medical training to independent practice During this critical phase, securing a contract that aligns with your professional, financial, and lifestyle goals is essential for setting a strong foundation for your career. You have invested years of rigorous training, accumulating significant student debt along the way Optimizing your contract ensures you receive fair compensation that reflects your expertise, dedication, and market value. Negotiating salary, bonuses, and benefits can alleviate financial stress, allowing you to focus on patient care and your professional development Contract optimization extends beyond monetary considerations. It encompasses aspects such as: - workload, - call schedules, - vacation time, - opportunities for continuing education and - career advancement Understanding the legal and contractual intricacies is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring you don't get into trouble along the way. With guidance, residents and fellows can navigate the negotiation process confidently, while avoiding potential pitfalls Ultimately, by prioritizing contract optimization, you will have peace of mind, knowing that your contract is tailored to support your needs. By being proactive you lay the groundwork for a successful and fulfilling career in medicine And... that's it! If you learned something: 1. Follow and learn more tomorrow 2. Share it with your friends and keep it from your enemies (hahaha) 3. Learn more today in 'The Real Contract' Course

In this team member spotlight, we explore Ramela’s journey to PSI, how her role impacts clinical trials, and insights into what influences a successful career. Read her story here: https://bit.ly/4bHDapL #PSIProud #PSICareers

Understanding the importance of contract optimization for residents and fellows. Contract optimization is paramount as you start the pivotal transition from medical training to independent practice During this critical phase, securing a contract that aligns with your professional, financial, and lifestyle goals is essential for setting a strong foundation for your career. You have invested years of rigorous training, accumulating significant student debt along the way Optimizing your contract ensures you receive fair compensation that reflects your expertise, dedication, and market value. Negotiating salary, bonuses, and benefits can alleviate financial stress, allowing you to focus on patient care and your professional development Contract optimization extends beyond monetary considerations. It encompasses aspects such as: - workload, - call schedules, - vacation time, - opportunities for continuing education and - career advancement Understanding the legal and contractual intricacies is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring you don't get into trouble along the way. With guidance, residents and fellows can navigate the negotiation process confidently, while avoiding potential pitfalls Ultimately, by prioritizing contract optimization, you will have peace of mind, knowing that your contract is tailored to support your needs. By being proactive you lay the groundwork for a successful and fulfilling career in medicine And... that's it! If you learned something: 1. Follow and learn more tomorrow 2. Share it with your friends and keep it from your enemies (hahaha) 3. Learn more today in 'The Real Contract' Course

I often get calls from doctors around the country with legal issues I can't solve as I'm not licensed in their state. So how does one find their own Amanda outside of Texas? First, ask around. Referrals are gold. Ask your circles, networks, facebook groups, and colleagues if they have worked with a lawyer they trust, who will talk to them, who will pick up the phone, and won't over charge them. If you come up dry, try calling the local county medical society or state medical association for some names. Often their practice management folks know the good lawyers in the area and they'll share those names. Lastly, try the medical malpractice companies. They also know a good defense attorney and may provide you with a list. When you get a name, ask about their fees, see if that lawyer will be working on the issue or if it will be sent to an associate, and just know that retainers are common, and you may have to send in a retainer before you get started. You often have a short into call, where you can explain the issue and see if that lawyer or firm is a good fit, and you'll need to sign an engagement letter and pay the retainer. In my practice we quote a two-week turnaround, which is fairly standard for a simple matter, but a more complex issue like a practice sale can take much longer. I am very cautious of firms that say they can do a solid contract review for a very low price, and it doesn't matter what state you're in. I think it does matter, as different states have very different laws and rules that contract lawyers understand who live and work there. And local lawyers know what certain groups will budge on terms and which groups are obnoxiously obtuse, and they often know the lawyers in those other entities. That's helpful to have the context. I've secured deals in the past because the opposing side knows I am fair and reasonable and will talk to me, whereas if I had no relationship with them at all I'd be starting from scratch. I've referred work to Mysty Blagg and Christine Zharova and many others in states where I'm not licensed. There are a lot of great health lawyers out there, and if I meet someone who I think would be a great fit, I always refer them. Just like you would if someone needs a cardiologist in Arizona or oncologist in Dallas and you trained with someone, you may refer them also. Finding a lawyer is like finding a therapist. You may try one out, it's not a good fit, and you keep looking. It's a personal services business so you have to like the services you're getting. I wish I could help out each doctor in the country. Which is what I'm trying to do with Guard My Practice. You can get our training videos and help educate your entire staff. But sometimes, a local lawyer is necessary. And if you're in Texas, YOU KNOW WHO TO CALL. Good luck out there! www.guardmypractice.com

Why do organizations, enterprises, and businesses require licenses to operate? Licenses play a crucial role in demonstrating dedication to upholding legal requirements and enhancing legitimacy for both individuals and organizations. They also inspire confidence in partners, suppliers, and consumers. Professions such as Doctors, Nurses, Teachers, and Banks are examples of fields that require licenses, making individuals highly marketable and preferred by businesses due to their commitment to compliance and quality standards. Given the importance of licenses in various professions, would obtaining a license to practice politics or become a politician be a beneficial idea? It raises intriguing questions about the value of licenses in sectors beyond traditional fields. What are your thoughts on this perspective.

Doctors: pay CLOSE attention to how the termination provisions are worded in your contract. This comes up probably every few weeks, when a doctor thinks they can get out, and I find the language actually traps them. Let me give you can example - a doctor reads "either party may terminate this agreement without cause by giving ninety days notice" and they stop reading. Yay! They can leave this company by giving ninety days advance warning. However, what they failed to continue reading was the second half of the sentence, which said "at the end of each calendar year during the Term." What this means is that you can't just give 90 day notice when you feel like it, you have to give them 90 days notice on December 31 or you lose your one shot. Then you have to wait another year to have that shot come around again. I pointed this out to a doctor today and she was SHOCKED. She had no idea this is what she signed. I preach this until I'm blue in the face - you ALWAYS need a back door out of every agreement you sign, for any reason, in a way that's reasonable and in a way that you can control. We teach this and much more to residents in our boot camp, and through our contracts course for doctors. Want your residents to learn from my wisdom? Reach out to me to find out how to drag and drop all of my videos into your residency program, so that your residents are well prepared for the real world of practice. We go over staying out of trouble, dealing with people, and yes, even contract negotiation. www.guardmypractice.com

If you haven’t checked out the American Board of Design & Research, here are a few good reasons why you should: