Navigating Staffing Challenges in Medical Practices: A Call to Action

In a recent conversation with one of our clients, a doctor shared a pressing concern: “I can’t let them go because they set up systems and logins that only they know. I don’t have time to train and learn their system. I am really tired. It has been a rough couple of months. It is so hard to find people.” This sentiment resonates deeply within the healthcare industry, highlighting a widespread issue many practices face.

When a single employee possesses exclusive knowledge of operational systems, it raises significant red flags. It can leave practice leaders feeling vulnerable and “held hostage” by their reliance on that individual. The stakes are high, as effective staffing is crucial to maintaining productivity and providing quality care.

During our discussion, we explored various strategies to address these challenges, focusing on key areas such as production numbers, staffing ratios, and the importance of transparency and accountability. As the leader of a medical practice, it’s vital to foster an environment where knowledge is shared and documented, rather than siloed within one individual.

We also discussed how geographic barriers can be overcome through a remote staffing model, which offers flexibility and access to a wider talent pool. This approach not only helps alleviate the pressure of finding qualified team members but also promotes transparency in operations.

Unfortunately, this doctor’s story is not an isolated incident. Each month, we connect with numerous medical professionals facing similar dilemmas. While each office may require a tailored solution, our flexible model allows us to develop custom strategies that fit the unique needs of each practice.

If you know a doctor grappling with staffing challenges or feeling overwhelmed by operational dependencies, let’s connect. Together, we can explore how our innovative solutions can empower them to reclaim control and foster a more resilient practice.

📖 Learn more about the author

Christine Sison is the CEO/Founder of Swiss Monkey. Swiss Monkey specializes in connecting dental practices with remote professionals, providing a suite of cutting-edge technology-driven tools to increase practice performance. Ms. Sison has built and managed a dental practice for over 10 years and has her Bachelor of Neurobiology from UC Berkeley and a Master of Health Policy and Management from the Harvard School of Public Health. Prior to her work in dentistry, she conducted brain tumor research at University of California, San Francisco, assisted in the integration of information technology into clinics and hospitals, and later led the development of community-wide healthcare systems, including telemedicine efforts.