Which would you rather have: an upbeat, engaged staff that contributes to a successful practice or a staff that grudgingly shows up for work each day and plods through required tasks? Obviously, the first choice is preferable. In reality, however, your staff probably includes at least several employees who fit the latter category. Still, if most employees are happy, you … [Read more...] about 3 ways you can boost office morale fast
Managing staff
Time and anxiety really do matter
By Dr. Steve M. Cohen Stress is actually a good thing until it overloads people. This overloaded situation is actually called "dis-stress." The ability to accommodate stress is inherent in all of us, but how much stress we can manage is a personal matter. Anxiety, resulting from stress overload or other issues, is not a good thing in anyone's life. A question that must be … [Read more...] about Time and anxiety really do matter
What makes a successful practice manager
By Shane Carter bio Being a practice manager in today's health care environment is a very tough job. Disruptive and transformational change is underway in health care delivery. The modernization of health care has created a complex, changing environment that requires a successful practice to employ technology, advanced systems, and an educated and dedicated staff. Because … [Read more...] about What makes a successful practice manager
Boost staff performance by communicating more clearly
Not pleased with what staff are doing? It may not be their fault. Look at the directions they are getting – from the manager. Whenever a staffer who is capable of doing a job doesn't get that job right, chances are it's because the manager didn't explain what needed to be done. A manager should assign projects via a written form that describes it all: the date of the … [Read more...] about Boost staff performance by communicating more clearly
What’s the ‘employee experience’ like at your medical practice?
Professionals have been talking about the customer experience, the patient experience, and the candidate experience for years, so it was bound to happen. Another term is now being batted around in human resource and management circles: the employee experience. Before you dismiss it as another buzz term or, worse, a fad, consider the implications of ignoring this crucial … [Read more...] about What’s the ‘employee experience’ like at your medical practice?
Are 5 common, but undiscussable, workplace behaviors putting your patients at risk?
A new study by VitalSmarts suggests that slackers, timid supervisors, toxic peers, and arrogant doctors are common in healthcare. But, while frustrating, these behavior problems aren't the real problem. The real problem in healthcare is silence. VitalSmarts’ study of workplace drama in healthcare found that while most employees and physicians frequently witness these … [Read more...] about Are 5 common, but undiscussable, workplace behaviors putting your patients at risk?
Set aside two hours for staff and keep interruptions in check
Some of the most annoying problems are often solved with the simplest of solutions. Such was the case at an internal medicine practice in Macon, GA. The practice has eight physicians and nearly 75 staff, but only one administrator dealing with constant interruptions that made getting her work done difficult. Most of the interruptions were from staff with small, but necessary, … [Read more...] about Set aside two hours for staff and keep interruptions in check
7 employee benefits you can give to your staff at little or no cost
A question readers often ask Medical Office Manager is what benefits can they give staff that won't break the budget. In response, we researched the benefits medical offices and other types of businesses offer. Some are unusual. Google, for example, provides free haircuts. A Japanese company even gives a one-day "heartache leave" each year to female employees who lose at … [Read more...] about 7 employee benefits you can give to your staff at little or no cost
Focus on employee health and see an increase in productivity
A survey of executives at large corporations, conducted by CoreNet Global and CBRE Group, Inc., has found that when a company focuses on employee health and wellness, there is an increase in engagement and retention rates and a decline in absenteeism. "Corporations that take an active role in managing health and wellness programs for employees are seeing positive returns on … [Read more...] about Focus on employee health and see an increase in productivity
Why your medical practice should implement an employee wellness program—and how to do it
Employee wellness programs are gaining in popularity, and with good reason. Research shows that wellness programs have many advantages, for employers and employees alike. Indeed, given the advantages, all businesses should focus on employee wellness, including, and perhaps, especially medical practices—because you are in the business of healthier living. But there is … [Read more...] about Why your medical practice should implement an employee wellness program—and how to do it