What to look for in a contract
So why should you have a contract – and what are those “essentials” you should look for? As the ADA Federal Dental Graduate Handbook states, whatever the position and basis of employment, it’s extremely important to have a written contract fully detailing the role.
This should include responsibilities of the position and the conditions of employment. If the new employer does not have a suitable document, template employment contracts are available to ADA members from the ADA’s HR Advisory Services and on the ADA website.
Don't be shy about speaking up
- You are welcome to call ADA NSW’s Advisory Services for a confidential one-on-one chat prior to signing a contract.
- Consider the important areas that should be covered by a written/verbal agreement, such as:
- Will the practice owner take on the management of a patient complaint – or the individual practitioner?
- What is the strategy around transition of care for patients who may be seeing more than one practitioner?
- What about exit clauses and provider number responsibility?
- What’s the infection control and record keeping like at the practice?
- Is the practice complying with statutory requirements?
ADA NSW Peer Advisors cannot assist with specific employment law issues, but can offer general information and advise on further help/resources. Contact the team via the ADA NSW Reception on 8436 9909.
For clarification on terms of conditions on a particular engagement, contact the ADA Federal HR Advisory Service on 1300 232 462 or email hrhotline@ada.org.au
