Today healthcare is in a constant flux with ACA, VBP, HAC and ACOs. Healthcare organizations are not sure which direction they should turn to and managers are contemplating on how they should handle these difficult transitions. During times like these, effective communication can be a critical component which provides stability during these unstable times.

The truth is that efficient communication doesn’t come as easy as it may be perceived and can be difficult to implement for organizations of all sizes. If communication strategies are administered correctly, improvements in efficiency, staff and patient satisfaction will be apparent resulting in a thriving organization.

Employee satisfaction as regards to communication in their organization is connected to the commitment of their organization to them, to the productivity and performance of the positions and to the work satisfaction. (Judy Gray, 2004)[i]

Studies show that on average managers spends about 75 to 95 percent of their time talking, listening, writing and citing but that does not mean their communication is efficient or effective. The fact is that the effects of good communication practices are apparent in any organization or department’s operations. In any organization where Communication is successful, its employees understand their organization and automatically become the active source of marketing for it. How does an organization make this happen? Here are some critical components of an excellent communication strategy.

Effective communication involves not only talking but listening. This is important. Take time to actively listen. Techniques like paraphrasing what a person has said is very effective resulting in a productive dialogue.

Use multiple methods for communicating. To ensure people are getting the message, one should never rely on a single method and should use multiple methods such as meetings, direct conversations, emails, telephone conversations, bulletins, postings and memos. Individuals gather and absorb information differently so you have to ensure you are covering all of your audience. Don’t beat around the bush. Be open, honest and straight forward when delivering a message and use terms that are understandable to all levels of the organization. Use repetition when delivering important information. As well as using multiple methods, you have to repeat the message multiple times since individuals are receptive at different times. Additionally, repetition reiterates the importance of your message. Allow time for the employee to make their suggestions, and problems known. It can be very frustrating for employees when managers do not allow their employees to provide input. Even worse, when employees do not get any feedback on their input. Managers must ensure that their message comes across in a very clear way. To facilitate this, you can hold focus groups and town hall meetings to answer any questions or concerns. An efficient feedback strategy will motivate employees and ultimately induce successful transition.

The Medhost Consulting Group provides a comprehensive consulting program that will help hospitals and health systems leverage their technology and personnel to become more efficient resulting in a safer and more profitable organization. MCG will ensure communication and program management along the way so you can focus on what’s important.

Reference: Judy Gray, H. L. (2004). Improving the Measurement of Communication Satisfaction. Management Communication Quarterly.