Opinion ID: 1630837
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 6

Heading: The Degree of Control and Direction Exercised by the State over Dr. Harkey

Text: ¶ 12. Clayton alleges that Dr. Harkey had a traditional doctor-patient relationship with her. Clayton further asserts that the State exercised no control over the patients that Dr. Harkey saw, when he saw them, his treatment of them or any other aspect of his practice. ¶ 13. Contrary to Clayton's argument, the State exercised significant control over Dr. Harkey. Dr. Harkey's practice was restricted to UMMC, and he was prohibited from earning any income from the practice of medicine outside his contract. The State controlled the time and manner of payment of his salary. The State had the right to direct the details and manner of his work schedule. It had the right to supervise and inspect the services provided by him. It furnished the means and instruments necessary for his work and the patients for whose care he was paid his contractual salary. The State controlled the hospital premises and had the power to terminate his contract. The State, through the Department of Neurosurgery, monitored Dr. Harkey's teaching, practice and research. The fact that Dr. Harkey must use his special training and medical judgment is inconsequential. That fact alone does not necessarily make the individual an independent contractor. A certain amount of discretion is necessary for Dr. Harkey to perform his duties as a physician.