How do you align policies and procedures with other departments?

1 Communicate and consult

Communication and consultation are essential for aligning policies and procedures with other departments. ES managers should communicate the goals, objectives, and expectations of ES policies and procedures to other department leaders and staff. They should also consult with them to understand their needs, challenges, and feedback. Communication and consultation can be done through various channels, such as meetings, emails, newsletters, surveys, and audits. By communicating and consulting, ES managers can build trust, rapport, and mutual understanding with other departments, and identify areas of alignment or improvement.

2 Review and update

Reviewing and updating policies and procedures is another important strategy for alignment. ES managers should review their policies and procedures regularly to ensure they are current, relevant, and compliant with the best practices and standards in the industry. They should also update them to reflect any changes in the organization, such as new equipment, processes, or regulations. Reviewing and updating policies and procedures can help ES managers ensure they are aligned with the policies and procedures of other departments, and avoid any gaps, conflicts, or inconsistencies.

3 Train and educate

Training and education are also crucial for aligning policies and procedures with other departments. ES managers should train and educate their staff on the policies and procedures of ES, as well as those of other departments that affect their work. For example, ES staff should be trained on the IPC protocols, the nursing workflows, the facilities requirements, and the supply chain procedures. Training and education can be done through various methods, such as orientation, in-service, online, or on-the-job. By training and educating their staff, ES managers can ensure they are competent, confident, and compliant with the policies and procedures of ES and other departments.

4 Monitor and evaluate

Monitoring and evaluating policies and procedures is the final strategy for alignment. ES managers should monitor and evaluate the performance, outcomes, and impacts of their policies and procedures on the quality, safety, and efficiency of ES and other departments. They should also monitor and evaluate the satisfaction, feedback, and suggestions of their staff and other department stakeholders. Monitoring and evaluating policies and procedures can be done through various tools, such as indicators, reports, audits, surveys, and interviews. By monitoring and evaluating policies and procedures, ES managers can measure their effectiveness, identify their strengths and weaknesses, and make adjustments or improvements as needed.

Aligning policies and procedures with other departments is a vital skill for ES managers. It can help them ensure consistent and effective service delivery, enhance collaboration and coordination, and improve patient and staff satisfaction. By following these strategies and tips, ES managers can align policies and procedures with other departments in the context of ES.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?