Engaging teams is a challenge across industries, but ASC administrators that practice transparency and open communication can build a strong culture of respect and patient care.
Here, four administrators discuss how they motivate their teams.
Bonnie Goodwin. Administrator of Tallahassee (Fla.) Outpatient Surgery Center: This continues to be a challenge as the complexity of the cases increase and the physicians are expecting to keep the operating rooms running until 5 p.m. We routinely will run five rooms until 5 p.m. and one room until 6:30 p.m. and the challenge has been staffing the OR with 10-hour shifts. We have been fortunate to have support from our physician partners and corporate partner who continually look for ways to motivate staff to keep them engaged.
Kathryn Rice. Administrator of Bayfront Health Ambulatory Surgery Center (St. Petersburg, Fla.): Being transparent with staff and having them be a part of the turnaround process is key. Keeping them informed as much as possible about changes and why they are necessary for improvement help keep staff engaged. They have to see the vision with you. Working side by side with them in the OR helps bring validity. As an administrator, if you can do what you ask of your staff then they feel supported and you become a team.
Raghu Reddy. Executive Administrator of SurgCenter of Western Maryland (Cumberland, Md.): We believe in hiring the right individuals who fit our culture and mindset. We treat everyone with respect and courtesy while appreciating their talents, the skill set they bring to the table. We are very transparent and believe in open and honest communications regarding the expectations we have from each other. Our culture dictates that we support each other during difficult days and collaborate to excel in what we do. As an administrator, I strongly believe in servant leadership and am available for my staff to discuss issues or feedback without any hesitation.
We do several informal team events throughout the year and strive for an environment where everyone has a sense of belonging. This culture shows in patient care, and our staff gets compliments from the patients and their families daily.
Kirsten Anderson. Administrator of Parkway Surgery Center (Myrtle Beach, S.C.): The best way to grow is to make changes. We have found that by including staff and getting their input and insight on potential changes, they become engaged in the processes and committed to the success.
To participate in future Becker's Thought Leadership Q&As, contact Laura Dyrda at ldyrda@beckershealthcare.com.
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