Staff relationships key to team building
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To build better relationships with staff, doctors need to think like a quarterback.
In her presentation at Real World Ophthalmology, Meenakshi Chaku, MD, said physicians spend a lot of time learning and training to be the best doctors they can be. However, they have to remember that supporting staff and nurturing relationships with them are just as important.
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“When we’re in practice, it’s really game on, and we have to remember that teamwork makes the dream work,” Chaku said. “You really want to develop a great team. You’re the quarterback, and you’re going to run this team.”
Building a great team comes down to four factors, Chaku said: teaching, engaging, advancing and mentoring.
“The real important thing to see here is to teach staff and get them to understand why you do your work up the way you do,” Chaku said. “It’s helpful in making the day a smooth day and developing a great relationship with staff.”
Engaging staff is about understanding them as people and what they do in their positions, Chaku said.
“It’s important to get to know your staff really well,” she said. “Learn what everybody is about, what they do and what their interests are. It’s about making sure there’s an open flow of communication between you and your staff.”
Doctors can then help their staff advance their skills and role within the team. Chaku said it is critical to recognize each staff member’s special skills — whether they are a master refractor, prior authorization ace or an expert technician — and give them a special role to fit that skill.
Finally, physicians should mentor staff to help them improve their skills and grow in their roles.
“We’ve all gone through certification and education, and staff want to take their qualifications to the next level, as well,” Chaku said. “If you build this great team, they will all come. Happy patients will come. Good reviews will come. Success will come. Work satisfaction will come.”
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Chaku M. Developing a great working relationship with staff. Presented at: Real World Ophthalmology; Nov. 5, 2022 (virtual meeting).
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