performance evaluations

Good practice managers understand the importance of regular performance reviews for motivating staff and making them feel appreciated as well as addressing and documenting needed improvements.  But sometimes the manager's own review by the managing physician of the practice slips through the cracks -- and, physicians don't always understand the importance of giving structured feedback to their practice managers. If you're a physician who hasn't established a regular schedule for meeting with your manager to provide performance feedback and set goals for the coming year, now's the time to get started.  The role of practice manager continues to evolve as the business of medicine does -- is your manager developing the skills he or she needs to keep your practice running smoothly and profitably?  Are you supporting your manager to take on important challenges for your practice -- whether in staffing and staff development, reaching out to patients via new channels, or upgrading technology?  Is your manager aware of the long-term plans you and your physician partners have for your practice -- so he or she can properly support your goals?  An annual meeting to review progress against past goals, and set plans for the coming year's efforts can be an effective way to empower your manager to move your practice's business in the right direction.  And, it's essential for retaining and grooming a talented manager as well.