The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires medical offices to make reasonable modifications to their policies, practices, and procedures to accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities, unless doing so would create an undue burden or fundamentally alter the nature of the services provided. This includes ensuring that the facility is physically accessible to … [Read more...] about What does the Americans with Disabilities Act require of your medical office?
Workplace Safety
7 tips for a safe winter commute
In the best of winters, driving to and from the office can be challenging. This winter is becoming downright dreadful in many parts of the country. Snow, ice, and cold weather can all create hazardous conditions on the road, and it is important to take extra precautions to ensure the safety of yourself and others. Here are tips for winter driving safety for you and your … [Read more...] about 7 tips for a safe winter commute
Compliance quiz: Which employees can you discipline for smoking pot at work?
SITUATION Your practice is located in a state where recreational and medical marijuana use is legal. But still you're shocked to find three of your employees smoking pot at work. The employees recognize that they've been caught red-handed but each offers up a different explanation: Bud reveals that he's addicted to marijuana; Herb explains that he uses medical … [Read more...] about Compliance quiz: Which employees can you discipline for smoking pot at work?
Safety Briefing: How to weather winter storms
Stormy weather, with snow, ice, rain and wind are a distinct possibility this time of year. You can use this sample safety briefing to remind your staff to keep themselves, their families, patients and co-workers safe during winter storms. Subject: Winter Storm Emergency Safety Briefing Dear [Medical Office Staff], As we enter the winter season, it is essential for all … [Read more...] about Safety Briefing: How to weather winter storms
Who Has OSHA responsibility for the health & safety of a temp?
What are your OSHA duties to temporary workers (“temps”) whom you hire from a temp agency to work at your medical office? Stated differently, are you or the temp agency responsible for the temp’s health and safety? Here’s a set of scenario quizzes that illustrate how the rules work. SCENARIO 1: RESPONSIBILITY FOR HAZCOM TRAINING The Temps R’Us Agency (Agency) assigns an … [Read more...] about Who Has OSHA responsibility for the health & safety of a temp?
When a full-time employee works a second full-time job
By Lynne Curry Question: I supervise a talented but difficult employee, whose performance has always been spotty but recently went downhill. Lately, “Scott” has dragged himself into the office every morning. He looks exhausted. His eyelids half-close during staff meetings. Because I felt concerned, I asked him if he was okay. He said he was just working too hard. He pointed … [Read more...] about When a full-time employee works a second full-time job
Plan now for a smooth winter holiday season
As autumn paints the world in warm hues, it's time to plan how to keep the office running smoothly over the holiday season. Staff scheduling and coverage One of the foremost considerations in holiday planning is managing staff scheduling and coverage. Start by reviewing vacation requests submitted by your staff. Ensure that requests are handled well in advance, allowing ample … [Read more...] about Plan now for a smooth winter holiday season
17 projects for the last quarter of 2023
As we start the last quarter of the year, it's time to plan the projects that need to be done before we close out 2023. Here's a list to consider. Financial Review: a. Review the year-to-date financial statements to assess the financial health of the practice. b. Prepare a budget for the upcoming year, considering revenue, expenses, and capital investments. Insurance … [Read more...] about 17 projects for the last quarter of 2023
Before, during and after a flood: Is your medical office prepared?
Flood preparedness is an ongoing process. Regularly review and update your flood preparedness plan to ensure it remains effective and aligned with any changes in your medical office's operations and environment. Pre-Flood Preparedness: Risk Assessment: Identify flood-prone areas near the medical office and assess the likelihood of flooding. Emergency Contacts: Maintain … [Read more...] about Before, during and after a flood: Is your medical office prepared?
Be ready for disaster with an emergency preparedness plan
From power outages to rainstorms, earthquakes to wildfires, the unexpected can happen. That's why your office needs a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan is essential. Here are key steps in establishing a plan. 1. Assess Vulnerabilities: Begin by identifying potential risks that could impact your office, such as natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, hurricanes), … [Read more...] about Be ready for disaster with an emergency preparedness plan