Non Compete Agreement for Cardiologists - 6 Tips Before You Sign That Offer

You’ve just received an offer from a cardiology group. The compensation looks good, the team seems great - but there’s one section of the contract that gives you pause: the non-compete agreement.

If you’re wondering whether it’s fair, enforceable, or in your best interest, you’re not alone. Many physicians sign non-competes without fully understanding how they might limit future opportunities. That’s why having a non-compete agreement reviewed by an business attorney is one of the smartest steps you can take before signing.

In this article, we'll cover six tips to help you evaluate your agreement and protect your career.

→ Secure Your Career, Speak With an Attorney

1. Understand the Legal Landscape in Your State

Non-compete laws vary widely across the country. Knowing your state’s rules before signing is important.

Key points to consider:

• Is the agreement enforceable under your state’s physician non-compete laws?

• Are there special rules for medical specialists like cardiologists?

• How have local courts handled similar agreements?

If you’re not sure, an attorney can quickly review your agreement and tell you whether the terms are reasonable - or a red flag.

Don’t sign before you know your rights - start with a professional review from our Business Attorney.

2. Define Clear Geographic Boundaries

The restricted area should be specific and reasonable. A vague “within the region” clause can mean very different things depending on how it’s interpreted.

Best practices to consider:

• Use a set radius (often 5–25 miles) from a defined practice location

• Consider where your patient referrals come from

• Make sure the boundary isn’t so large it could force you to relocate entirely

3. Keep Time Limits Reasonable

The longer a non-compete lasts, the more it can impact your career options. Many agreements run 6 months to 2 years, but what’s “reasonable” depends on your role in the practice.

Things to keep in mind:

• Shorter durations are more likely to be enforced

• Senior roles sometimes require longer limits

• The timeline should reflect the group’s real need to protect its patient relationships

A contract attorney can help negotiate a duration that balances their business needs with your future flexibility.

→ Secure Your Career, Speak With an Attorney

4. Align the Agreement With Your Career Goals

This is your career, so your non-compete should reflect your long-term vision.

Ways to protect your future:

• Avoid restrictions in areas you may want to work again the future

• If you might change subspecialties, clarify whether those are covered

• Coordinate your agreement with Estate Planning, Tax Planning, Financial Planning, Private Banking, and Exit Planning to make sure your contract fits your bigger picture

5. Address Buyouts and Exceptions Upfront

Some groups include a buyout option so you can pay a set amount to lift the non-compete. If that’s important to you, it needs to be written in before you sign.

Important considerations:

• Is there a buyout clause?

• How much would it cost?

• Are there exceptions for academic work, telemedicine, or other specialties?

6. Review and Update Before It’s Too Late

Even if you’re eager to join the group, take the time to have your non-compete reviewed. Many physicians only realize the consequences when they try to make a career move - and by then, it’s too late to change the terms.

A well-crafted non-compete can also prevent many partnership disputes down the road before they even start.

Before you sign, let our business attorney review your agreement and make sure it works for you..

Key Clauses to Review in a Cardiologist Non Compete Agreement

When looking over your agreement, pay special attention to:

• Geographic Scope – Exact boundaries for the restriction

• Duration – How long the terms apply after leaving

• Restricted Services – Whether it covers all cardiology or only certain areas

• Buyout Option – Terms and costs to remove restrictions

• Exceptions – Situations where the non-compete won’t apply

• Enforcement & Penalties – What happens if you violate it

These details can make the difference between a fair agreement and one that limits your future unnecessarily.

→ Secure Your Career, Speak With an Attorney

FAQs About Non Compete Agreements for Cardiologists

Are non compete agreements enforceable for cardiologists?

In many states, yes - but enforceability depends on your location, the scope of the restriction, and how it’s written. A quick legal review can tell you whether yours is likely to hold up.

Can I negotiate a cardiology non-compete before signing?

Yes. Non-compete terms are often negotiable - including duration, distance, and exceptions. However, it’s easier to negotiate before you sign, not after.

What if I already signed and want to leave?

Depending on the agreement, you may still have options. An attorney can review the terms, look for loopholes, and advise you on next steps.

Is it worth paying for a non-compete review?

Absolutely. The cost of a professional review is small compared to the potential impact on your career and income if you’re locked out of practicing in your preferred area.