Managers Reducing Physician Stress

Question: In what ways can an office manager help to relieve the stress of a physician?

The current economic situation, difficult cases, the ever-present potential for liability, and home-life stressors combined can be overwhelming at times.

Answer: Well, aren’t you nice to worry.

I should think the key way you can help the physicians is to be really on top of your job. Ensure that you are collecting every dollar you can, that staff is working as a team, and that there is no embezzlement.

Give the physicians accurate, timely, cogent analysis of where the practice stands each month and outline where you are working proactively to improve things. Think strategically about how the practice must grow or change to protect itself or do better.

If they feel like the business side of the practice is stable and that they totally understand the financial picture and strategic direction, it goes a long way to reducing their fears, right?

You can set a policy for dismissing problem patients, within reason, and show them how to document and set up processes on follow up to reduce their risk.

You should stay out of their home life, except to be as understanding as possible.

You might also encourage them to network online or elsewhere with other physicians so they know they aren’t alone in their concerns. Try forum.physicianspractice.com.