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Q: To cut costs, your facility closed one of its business offices and relocated your department. Unfortunately, the new digs are less than ideal. The space is cramped, with few windows to let in light. Desk chairs have been downgraded to a cheaper (and quite uncomfortable) version, and the only photocopier is down the hall. Employees are struggling to adjust, and morale has taken a nose dive.
Should the staff ask for better working conditions, or should they be willing to compromise in these tough economic times?
A: In today's challenging economic climate, with hospitals continuing to "right size" or "downsize" in an effort to conserve precious financial resources, it is not surprising the hospital elected to close one of its business offices. Oftentimes, downsizing impacts operations in more ways than one, including disruption of long-established office locations, process operations and degradation of office morale.
In this instance, there is one distinct strategy the staff can take to address the identified deficient working conditions and resulting impact upon overall employee morale. The strategy involves constructively working with the hospital administration to address some of these work place deficiencies. Focus on the direct relationship of employee productivity and work surroundings, including convenient access to a copy machine and sound office equipment that promotes ergonomic work solutions and reduces employment-related health ailments, such as low back pain, that lead to employee absenteeism.
Taking a positive approach to effect change in working conditions is your best bet, given the current economic climate and employment situation. A general sentiment in the work place today is one of thankfulness for remaining employed.
--Glenn Krauss, RHIA, CCS, CCS-P, CPUR, C-CDIS
A: Most organizations are cutting back during these hard economic times. Management and staff must understand that to stay competitive, some unpleasant changes may be required. However, management should also stress that by making the necessary changes, the staff may not have to endure more drastic measures, such as layoffs and salary cuts. Communication to employees, particularly in times of change, is very important. If employees are included and understand the reasons why certain decisions are made, they are less likely to misinterpret the changes.
Additionally, management must take proactive steps to curb declining morale. Changes can be made to improve morale that will not affect the bottom line. In this example, a casual dress code may be in order, so the staff is more comfortable in their new work environment. Management will need to get creative with additional "perks" to ensure they retain talented employees.
--Kayce Dover, MS, RHIA
This week's panel:
Glenn Krauss, RHIA, CCS, CCS-P, CPUR, C-CDIS, is an independent consultant in Madison, WI.
Kayce Dover, MS, RHIA, is president and executive recruiter at HIM Connections Inc., Trussville, AL.
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