How can you improve physician retention by improving communication with management?

Impetus Digital seeks to improve physician retention by enhancing communication between healthcare organizations and physicians. We propose using the InSite Platform for meaningful dialogues, allowing physicians to express their challenges and suggest solutions, particularly concerning burnout, administrative complexities, and new technologies. This strategy aims to involve physicians in management decisions and recognize their contributions, fostering a collaborative environment. This approach could be key in creating a more communicative and empowering healthcare sector, leading to sustainable changes.

My two cents on this topic are as below: 1. It is important to ensure physicians are retained in the system since they constitute the backbone of healthcare 2. To ensure adequate and appropriate communication, its integral to have clinical champions who become the voice of clinicians and any change in system is conveyed to the clinical champions to percolate information 3. To ensure any communication provided to physicians is transparent and clear for a better buy-in 4. To include clinicians into the decision making process when discussions impacting patient care are concerned. This would ensure we value their opinions 5. To frame a communication channel through newsletters or portals which inform clinicians of any organization information

Physicians are more likely to stay in an organization if they feel valued, respected, and supported by their managers. To achieve this, managers need to communicate effectively with physicians, both verbally and non-verbally. This means listening actively, giving constructive feedback, expressing appreciation, and acknowledging challenges. It also means using appropriate body language, tone of voice, and eye contact to convey empathy and sincerity. By improving communication with management, physicians can feel more engaged, motivated, and satisfied with their work environment.

Physicians are the end users, endorsers or customers for many B2B services or products - from pharma to digital health. It stands to reason that their experience should be taken into consideration. When face to face meetings don’t work consider more creative ways of getting their opinion: 1. 5 mins in the doctor’s lounge over a cup of coffee 2. A quick survey using Google forms or Survey Monkey - something easy and fuss free 3. Accept voice notes as answers to a survey or questionnaire if they don’t have the time to type it out. A few accommodations can work well in getting the information you need, when you need it - and avoid bottle necks and delays.

To enhance physician retention, it is imperative to prioritize: - Valuing their perspectives and insights. - Allowing them to align their professional philosophy with the overarching philosophy and vision of the management/organization. - Facilitating the application of their accumulated academic and practical knowledge to current projects, recognizing that diversity in experience contributes to superior outcomes

Implement monthly roundtable discussions where physicians can openly share their experiences, challenges, and suggestions. Management actively listens, responds to concerns, and collaboratively explores solutions. This two-way communication not only addresses issues promptly but also empowers physicians, making them feel valued and integral to the decision-making process.

In any process, it's fundamental not to sideline the experts who navigate its intricacies daily. These professionals possess a wealth of knowledge about the nuances and intricacies, making their involvement invaluable. By including them in decision-making processes, you tap into their insights and experience, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the system. This principle holds universal applicability across professions and specialties, aligning seamlessly with the best practices of lean problem-solving methodologies. In the context of healthcare, where optimal outcomes hinge on collaboration and efficiency, physicians play a pivotal role.

Don't mistake input for influence. While getting input is important, allowing this input to influence decision-making is critical. Otherwise, meetings and surveys become nothing but lip-service. This is not unique to healthcare, of course. Lean on the expertise of your physicians. Don't assume what they need, ask what they need and how you can help make it happen as a leader.

Physician retention can be improved by giving him the autonomy he deserves of taking decisions and also getting him well paid is important

It is important to distinguish input from influence. While not every suggestion has to be acted upon, when physicians provide consistent input without it being taken into account, this can lead to apathy and burnout. Trust their expertise in patient-care processes, that is what they are trained for! ??

While the physicians I work with don't do their wonderful work for praise, it is still important to recognize them for what they do. Sometimes a simple acknowledgment - just letting them know their good work is seen and appreciated - can go a long way....maybe even further than a pizza party! ??

Improving physician retention through enhanced communication with management involves fostering a supportive and transparent environment. Regular check-ins, addressing concerns promptly, and involving physicians in decision-making can contribute to a positive workplace.