Add some fun to your practice

Patients often come to your practice feeling anxious, hurt, or afraid. Adding some levity can help put them at ease, and it can help your stressed-out colleagues as well. Here are four easy things you can do:

1. Take pictures. Kids love to have a photo of themselves with a new cast or a fun bandage, and even adults enjoy having a snapshot to remember milestones or special occasions. Use your cell phone camera or have a Polaroid camera on hand (yes, they still make them) to capture these moments.

2. Bring treats to share. Surprise your staff on occasion with doughnuts, fancy coffee in the break room, or maybe something healthier. Even if they don’t partake, it can be a conversation starter.

3. Have a contest. When it’s time for the Academy Awards, the Super Bowl, or March Madness, have a little contest to see who can choose the most winners or the winning score. Even if it’s just a staff contest, patients like to see the fun things you’re doing.

4. Post your “happy letters” for everyone to read. Memos from human resources and the parking police may be necessary, but make room on your staff bulletin board for kind letters from patients and families, which will help you remember why you do what you do.

Read the full FPM article: “A Funny Thing Happened Today at the Office.”