Treating Employees

Question: Our practice wants to write an employee policy that defines parameters for providing medical treatment to employees. A recent newsletter from the malpractice insurance company advised such a written policy. Also, the physicians would like a buffer set by means of a written policy. What should the policy say?

Answer: I’d first contact the malpractice company. If they suggest you have a written policy, I’m sure they have ideas on what the policy should say. My two cents? The policy should say you don’t treat employees. It’s just too difficult to be objective, not to use medical information when looking at job performance, and to keep medical and financial information out of the hands of other employees (even those who room the patient/employee). Finally, what happens if the employee owes you money for care?

It’s just too sticky.