Commonwealth, well beyond their initial employment location.
(4) Noncompete covenants in health care inhibit
competition that benefits employees and patients and can
deter needed health care practitioners from wanting to
practice in Pennsylvania.
(5) Providers constrained by noncompete covenants have
less freedom of practice for fear of losing employment and
being unable to work in their profession.
(6) Most rural areas of Pennsylvania can be considered
health care deserts in which patients must travel two or
three hours for their basic health care needs.
(7) Continuity of care is a fundamental public policy
goal that can help patients achieve their health care goals
and build trust with their health care practitioners.
(8) This Commonwealth cannot afford to continue losing
health care practitioners to surrounding states and must do
more to attract and retain them.
Section 3. Definitions.
The following words and phrases when used in this act shall
have the meanings given to them in this section unless the
context clearly indicates otherwise:
"Employer." A person or group of persons that employ a
health care practitioner at a primary health care facility or
office.
"Health care practitioner." As defined in section 103 of the
act of July 19, 1979 (P.L.130, No.48), known as the Health Care
Facilities Act.
"Noncompete covenant." An agreement that is entered into
between an employer and a health care practitioner in this
Commonwealth and is designed to impede the ability of the health
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