Contract norms & negotiations for the young ophthalmologist
Ms. Maher, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare consulting, delivered a comprehensive presentation on contract norms and best practices for successful negotiations. Having worked with hundreds of young ophthalmologists, she shared key strategies to help attendees navigate the job search process with confidence.
Ms. Maher emphasized the increasing demand for ophthalmologists due to an aging population and a national shortage of specialists. With patient wait times extending up to six months in many regions, she encouraged young physicians to be proactive in their job search and to start early—ideally 12 to 18 months before completing residency or fellowship.
She outlined the essential components of a strong contract, including:
- Job search timeline: Recommendations on when to start applying and interviewing.
- Priorities and expectations: Identifying top factors such as location, compensation, mentorship and work-life balance.
- Compensation structures: Understanding base salary, production bonuses, and the impact of geographic location on earnings.
- Key interview questions: What to ask about practice management, turnover rates and expectations for new hires.
- Negotiation strategies: The importance of clear communication, evaluating benefits, and safeguarding against non-compete clauses and restrictive covenants.
Ms. Maher also highlighted the evolving landscape of private equity in ophthalmology and how contract terms may differ between private practices and PE-backed organizations. She advised attendees to thoroughly review employment agreements, ask clarifying questions and ensure their contracts align with long-term career goals.
Complex case discussions
Following the presentation, YPG members engaged in a collaborative discussion on complex corneal cases.
- Elliot Crane, MD, shared three cases of corneal ulcers with limited outcomes, seeking input from his peers on management strategies and treatment approaches.
- Lara Newman, MD, presented on Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK) and provided guidance on when to proceed with surgery versus adopting a wait-and-see approach.
- Robert Joshua Fantus, MD, concluded the meeting with another corneal ulcer case, sparking further discussion on clinical decision-making and best practices.
A platform for peer support and growth
The 2025 YPG meeting reaffirmed its mission of providing a supportive space for young ophthalmologists to connect, learn and exchange knowledge. With expert insights on contract negotiations and thought-provoking case discussions, attendees left with practical takeaways to apply in their careers.
Stay tuned for details on the next YPG meeting.
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