Published January 10, 2024
In the demanding field of healthcare, clinicians often find themselves grappling with burnout due to high workloads and stress. It is therefore vital to create additional opportunities for self-care through increased efficiencies and collaboration that promote work-life balance. A proactive approach that involves engaging the team through tools like Daily Management Systems (DMS), Standard Work, Scribes, EMR/EHR templates and a streamlined method for idea submission can assist significantly. Additionally, high turnover of clinical support staff can create an environment of instability and increased workload for healthcare clinicians. When turnover is common, clinicians often find themselves grappling with the challenges of short-staffed teams, increased administrative burdens, and disruptions in the continuity of patient care.
Using tools like Daily Management System, Standard Work, and Idea Systems, clinicians can improve communication within the team, can reduce variation of tasks from support staff, and can create an environment in which existing and new team members can quickly adapt to standard operations and problem solving.
Daily Management System
Implementing a Daily Management System enables clinicians to establish a routine for reviewing key performance metrics, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Regular team huddles, where members discuss challenges and successes, enhance communication and build a sense of collective responsibility. By integrating DMS into daily workflows, clinicians can identify and address issues promptly, preventing them from escalating into sources of burnout.
Standard Work
Standard work provides a structured framework for tasks, reducing ambiguity and promoting efficiency. Establishing clear protocols for common procedures not only enhances patient care but also mitigates the mental strain associated with uncertainty. Clinicians can better focus on their responsibilities when they have standardized processes, leading to more cohesive and resilient team.
Idea Systems
Creating a method for team members to submit ideas for improvement empowers everyone on the healthcare team. Whether it’s through suggestion boxes, digital platforms, or regular brainstorming sessions, fostering an environment where individuals feel heard encourages innovation and boosts morale. Clinicians often possess valuable insights into optimizing workflows or enhancing patient experiences, and providing a channel for expression can be transformative.
Additionally, the use of templates, scribes and dictation help reduce the burden of clinical documentation. As a clinician it is vital to care for yourself so that you can provide the best care for others, this can be done through setting clear work boundaries and avoiding “Pajama time”. It is important as we grow as clinicians to reduce burnout you surround yourself with supportive colleagues and know it is ok to advocate for yourself.
Tips for Providers Wellness
Combating burnout in healthcare requires a multifaceted approach which we discuss in the "Self Care in Practice" 3-Part Podcast Series and engaging the team through tools like Daily management systems, standard work, and idea submissions methods is pivotal. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, providing clarity through standardization, and valuing the input of every team member, clinicians can create a resilient and empowered healthcare workforce, ultimately reducing burnout and improving overall well-being.