Employment Law in Healthcare

The healthcare sector has unique employment law considerations that employers must understand to maintain compliance and positive workplace relations.

Hiring Practices

Pre-Employment Checks

Healthcare employers should conduct:

• Working with children checks (where applicable)
• Professional registration verification
• Qualifications confirmation
• Reference checks
• Police checks

Employment Contracts

Essential contract terms include:

• Position description and duties
• Hours of work and on-call requirements
• Professional development provisions
• Confidentiality obligations
• Restraint of trade clauses

Managing Healthcare Workers

Professional Development

Support ongoing learning through:

• CPD leave provisions
• Training budget allocation
• Conference attendance support

Performance Management

Address issues promptly and fairly:

• Clear performance expectations
• Regular feedback and reviews
• Documented improvement plans
• Fair procedures for disciplinary matters

Termination Considerations

Lawful Termination

Ensure compliance with:

• Notice requirements
• Unfair dismissal laws
• General protections provisions
• Industry-specific regulations

Protecting Practice Interests

Consider:

• Confidentiality during and after employment
• Non-compete and non-solicitation clauses
• Return of practice property
• Patient notification requirements

Conclusion

Healthcare employment requires careful attention to both general employment law and sector-specific requirements. Proactive compliance reduces risk and promotes positive workplace culture.