Introduction

Have you ever encountered a situation where your doctor, who is consistently on vacation, asks you about your plans during their absence? This article explores the reasons behind such behavior and analyzes the implications for both the staff and the practice. We will delve into the motivations of the doctor, the staff's response, and possible solutions to address this issue.

Understanding the Doctor’s Behavior

Imagine a scenario where a doctor in a private practice is frequently on vacation. Every time they plan to leave, they ask their staff if they will be working on their days off. This article provides insights into why a doctor might behave this way and the impact it has on the staff.

The Doctor's Perspective

The doctor may feel entitled to take uninterrupted breaks while ensuring the practice continues without significant disruptions. Here are the possible reasons:

Narcissism: This doctor might be engaging in self-centered behavior, overvaluing their own needs while disregarding the staff's. Responsibility: The doctor might genuinely want to ensure that the staff can handle their absence without too much stress or workload. Financial Considerations: By temporarily finding ways to cover for their absence, the doctor might be trying to minimize their financial burden. Desire for Comfort: He might feel a bit guilty about not being around, and hence, asks the staff to cover for him to mitigate this guilt.

Regardless of the reasons, the reality is that the doctor’s actions have consequences for the staff and the practice.

The Impact on Staff and Practice

The doctor's frequent absences can lead to resentment and dissatisfaction among staff members. Here’s a closer look at the different roles within the practice and how they are affected:

Receptionist

Handling more responsibilities without additional compensation. Feeling overworked and undervalued. District may shut down on weekends to save costs, which is a further burden.

Medical Assistant

Asked to perform additional duties without proper compensation. Feelings of resentment towards the doctor’s decision to take time off. Limited paid time off, especially when the doctor doesn’t take personal responsibility.

Unpaid RN

Responsible for urgent and non-urgent duties, such as emergency walk-ins and scheduled injections. No structured schedule or regular payment, leading to frustration. Underappreciated for their contributions and hard work.

Communicating with the Doctor

To address this issue, it is crucial to communicate openly with the doctor. Here’s how:

Express Your Concerns: Directly ask the doctor why they are concerned about your availability. For example, say, "I notice that you always ask me if I’m going to work on the days you’re not here. I was wondering why you ask me. Is everything OK?" Seek Clarity: Ask the doctor if they need a specific person to cover for them. For instance, "Is the reason you ask me if I will be there so that someone will be there who knows my patients while you’re away?" Propose Solutions: Offer suggestions for better practices, such as having a senior staff member cover for them or finding a professional who can cover the responsibilities during their absence.

Open communication is key to finding a solution that benefits both the doctor and the staff.

Conclusion

The doctor who keeps taking vacations without proper planning or consideration can create significant stress and resentment among the staff. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior and finding ways to address it can help maintain a healthy and productive work environment.

By communicating with the doctor and addressing the underlying issues, you can strike a balance between the doctor's need for personal time and the staff's need for fair treatment and respect.