Alleviating Hostile Work Environments & Harassment Claims

Ambulatory surgery centers rely on a highly skilled, experienced, and engaged workforce to run efficiently in a change-driven industry. These healthcare professionals have demanding and fast-paced jobs, and they need to work in a safe and supportive environment in order to provide the best patient care.

ASC leaders are responsible for creating a culture where all employees are treated with kindness and respect, regardless of gender or other characteristics. The following best practices aim to mitigate risks associated with sexual harassment, general harassment, and a hostile work environment.

Adopt a “top-down” approach.

ASC leaders must model the standards and behaviors they want to see in their organization. It is their duty to define and enforce clear harassment policies, both in formal guidelines and casual everyday conversations. An employee handbook should outline in writing the processes and procedures to be followed if a harassment claim is filed. And leaders should talk often about the behaviors they expect, and those they won’t tolerate.

Be proactive about addressing risks.

Negative interpersonal behaviors can sour a work environment quickly. Leaders must be proactive about preventing them, incorporating steps such as:

  • Online and in-person training about unacceptable behaviors
  • Frequent conversations about shared beliefs and values
  • Positive recognition of those demonstrating company values
  • Programs to strengthen culture
  • Leaders demonstrating desired behaviors
  • Zero tolerance policies for harassment

Address problems early on.

To foster a positive work environment, employees must feel supported in speaking up about any complaints they have. Whether they are bothered by an uncomfortable incident or an ongoing pattern of harassment, they need to have a safe space to air their concerns. This may involve a short, in-the-moment conversation when someone says something improper. Or it might require more official protocols. Especially with delicate situations, managers shouldn’t hesitate to involve human resources experts who can guide productive discussions, facilitate conflict resolution, and follow up with additional actions.

Learn how MedHQ utilizes its expertise to help ASCs mitigate HR risks.