Monday, July 17, 2017

Tail Wagging The Dog

I was talking with a colleague the other day and the subject of why some clinicians are resistant to new methods and technologies came up. Even though these methods and technologies can improve patient outcomes and provide safer treatments for both clinicians and their patients, some clinicians still refuse to accept these new approaches.

The thing I don't understand is that I thought the clinician was the employee. I thought the director of rehab establishes the rehab program which would include methods and technologies. Apparently this is not the case because if a clinician doesn't want to learn a new technique or new technology they don't have to. Even though it could save time and money, be safer for both the clinician and their patient and provide a better outcome.

It seems like the tail is wagging the dog. Is there any other industry where the employee tells the employer what they are willing or not willing to do? I can't think of one.

There is nothing more frustrating to an administrator than to see a piece of expensive new therapy equipment gathering dust or being used as a coat rack or lunch table. No wonder some administrators are resistant to purchase the newest products on the market, I totally get it.

This is a leadership issue on every level and it always starts at the top. Developing a culture of respect and cooperation is essential in every department. It is the oil in a well oiled machine, all parts moving together with a common goal, to be the best they can be in every situation. That's why the tail should never wag the dog, it doesn't work.