H4767

Prohibits noncompete clauses in physician contracts in South Carolina to protect patient freedom of choice.

The bill, titled the "Physician Noncompete Contract Prohibition Act," prohibits noncompete clauses in physician contracts in South Carolina. It aims to protect patient freedom of choice by allowing physicians to establish a physician-patient relationship with any patient upon departure. The bill also allows for recoupment of expenses such as relocation costs, signing and retention bonuses, and recruiting expenses if outlined in the contract. It does not prevent entities from requiring repayment of retention bonuses within two years or protecting other business interests like trade secrets.