Can a non-compete restrict future employment by specific companies?

I have been working for a local firm that provides services to the medical industry. Specifically, our largest client is the second largest medical providor in our county. The non compete restricts for 2 years within our geography, but also specifically forbids employment by this large hospital organization (inter-state in scope) and another local employer/customer.

If I sign this it will drastically limit my ability to find employment in my field (medical administration). Next to tourism, this is the largest employer in our area.

I think this is an unfair restriction by a company that has virtually no compitition in their services provided. Actually, I find it so restrictive that I may have to not sign it and take the consequences and look for another job. BTW, we have 12%+ unemployment here.

Thanks for any insight.

Thomas John Avatarici