Why do Doctors Need Sensitivity & Workplace Civility Training

Simple, because many doctors have never had civility training.  Promoting civility in the workplace is crucial, even for the most esteemed professionals like doctors.  

Many doctors that I have worked with are self-acclaimed introverts, they self-report that they don’t like managing staff members and have no interest when it comes to dealing with employee matters in the workplace.  They can justify this behavior because they feel they already have stress dealing with the demanding nature of the medical profession and patient care. 

Implementing civility training for doctors ensures respectful and effective communication, fostering a positive work environment. This type of program prioritizes the practice of compassion and professionalism to enhance patient care and bolster team collaboration.

Team Leaders

Doctors are in a position of authority and need to be seen as team leaders.  Regardless of the reporting structure, a doctor is responsible for supervising and coordinating the care of their patients, which involves working closely with other healthcare professionals. As a team leader, a doctor must be able to communicate effectively with other team members, delegate tasks appropriately, and provide guidance and support to ensure that all team members are working together effectively to provide the best possible care for their patients. Additionally, doctors must be able to collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop treatment plans and make important decisions about patient care, which requires strong leadership skills.

Sensitivity Coaching 

While doctors are highly skilled in their medical expertise, they can sometimes face challenges in navigating workplace dynamics and employee relations. One-on-one coaching can be beneficial for doctors in several ways:

1. Improved Communication Skills: Coaching can help doctors develop effective communication skills, enabling them to convey information clearly, listen empathetically, and resolve conflicts respectfully.
2. Conflict Resolution: In high-pressure medical environments, coaching sessions can equip doctors with conflict resolution strategies, such as active listening, negotiation techniques, and problem-solving skills. This enables them to address conflicts constructively and maintain positive working relationships.
3. Emotional Intelligence: Doctors frequently face emotionally charged situations, coaching can help doctors develop emotional intelligence, enabling them to manage their own emotions and respond empathetically to patients and colleagues.
4. Leadership Development: Coaching can assist doctors in developing their leadership skills, such as effective delegation, decision-making, and building a collaborative team. This ensures a supportive work environment where everyone feels valued and motivated.

By providing sensitivity training and coaching, healthcare organizations acknowledge the unique challenges doctors face in the workplace and provide them with the necessary support to excel both professionally and personally. It ultimately benefits the doctors, their colleagues, and most importantly, the patients they serve.