Stormy weather, with snow, ice, rain and wind are a distinct possibility this time of year. You can use this sample safety briefing to remind your staff to keep themselves, their families, patients and co-workers safe during winter storms. Subject: Winter Storm Emergency Safety Briefing Dear [Medical Office Staff], As we enter the winter season, it is essential for all … [Read more...] about Safety Briefing: How to weather winter storms
Workplace Safety
Who Has OSHA responsibility for the health & safety of a temp?
What are your OSHA duties to temporary workers (“temps”) whom you hire from a temp agency to work at your medical office? Stated differently, are you or the temp agency responsible for the temp’s health and safety? Here’s a set of scenario quizzes that illustrate how the rules work. SCENARIO 1: RESPONSIBILITY FOR HAZCOM TRAINING The Temps R’Us Agency (Agency) assigns an … [Read more...] about Who Has OSHA responsibility for the health & safety of a temp?
When a full-time employee works a second full-time job
By Lynne Curry Question: I supervise a talented but difficult employee, whose performance has always been spotty but recently went downhill. Lately, “Scott” has dragged himself into the office every morning. He looks exhausted. His eyelids half-close during staff meetings. Because I felt concerned, I asked him if he was okay. He said he was just working too hard. He pointed … [Read more...] about When a full-time employee works a second full-time job
Plan now for a smooth winter holiday season
As autumn paints the world in warm hues, it's time to plan how to keep the office running smoothly over the holiday season. Staff scheduling and coverage One of the foremost considerations in holiday planning is managing staff scheduling and coverage. Start by reviewing vacation requests submitted by your staff. Ensure that requests are handled well in advance, allowing ample … [Read more...] about Plan now for a smooth winter holiday season
17 projects for the last quarter of 2023
As we start the last quarter of the year, it's time to plan the projects that need to be done before we close out 2023. Here's a list to consider. Financial Review: a. Review the year-to-date financial statements to assess the financial health of the practice. b. Prepare a budget for the upcoming year, considering revenue, expenses, and capital investments. Insurance … [Read more...] about 17 projects for the last quarter of 2023
Before, during and after a flood: Is your medical office prepared?
Flood preparedness is an ongoing process. Regularly review and update your flood preparedness plan to ensure it remains effective and aligned with any changes in your medical office's operations and environment. Pre-Flood Preparedness: Risk Assessment: Identify flood-prone areas near the medical office and assess the likelihood of flooding. Emergency Contacts: Maintain … [Read more...] about Before, during and after a flood: Is your medical office prepared?
Be ready for disaster with an emergency preparedness plan
From power outages to rainstorms, earthquakes to wildfires, the unexpected can happen. That's why your office needs a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan is essential. Here are key steps in establishing a plan. 1. Assess Vulnerabilities: Begin by identifying potential risks that could impact your office, such as natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, hurricanes), … [Read more...] about Be ready for disaster with an emergency preparedness plan
Personal Disaster Preparation Safety Briefing
Dear [Company Name] Team, We all know that disaster preparedness is essential for our safety and well-being, both at work and in our personal lives. Emergencies can happen without warning, so it's crucial to be informed and ready to respond. This safety briefing will provide you with important information on how to prepare for disasters that may occur at work, at home, or … [Read more...] about Personal Disaster Preparation Safety Briefing
18 ways your medical office can run afoul of laws and regulations
Running a medical office comes the responsibility for ensuring compliance with various laws and regulations. Failure to meet compliance requirements can lead to legal, financial, and reputational troubles. Here are some—but by no means all—the ways your medical office can run into compliance trouble: HIPAA Violations: Failure to protect patient health information and maintain … [Read more...] about 18 ways your medical office can run afoul of laws and regulations
How to handle breakroom conflicts
You've got a days-old tuna and pesto wrap stinking up the fridge, unwashed cups in the sink, and muffin crumbs on the table. You could fit-test a respirator with the smell of banana peels wafting from the overfull trash can. The 15 minutes you were going to spend reading the latest thriller disappeared when you had to scrub and refill the scorched coffee pot. Experiences like … [Read more...] about How to handle breakroom conflicts