Group Dynamics in Healthcare Settings

Conclusion

Becoming an effective leader to a diversified group of individuals is a challenging undertaking. Moreover, developing a cohesive multidisciplinary team is critical in any healthcare setting in order to meet high standards and quality of care. Foremost, establishing an open line of communication is crucial for the foundation of the multidisciplinary team in order to build trust and respect. Also, and essential to the rapport development and maintenance, is being a humble and selfless leader. Meeting the standards of a Level 5 Leader can be the determining factor of on-going and sustained success, and is vital to improving leader-follower relationships. However, when conflict inevitably arises, positive conflict management strategies must be employed in order to foster growth, encourage mutual respect between colleagues and enhance quality and standards of care.

Essential to the efficiency of the team is adaptation of services to ease communication lines. Research has shown that the use of telehealth services can reduce costs while improving health outcomes. Adoption of these services can bolster collaboration efforts and create better teamwork and clinical outcomes. The continuing success of a healthcare team requires the use of assessment tools to evaluate performance. These assessment tools can be used in different dimensions and areas of focus but are designed to target deficiencies and improve quality of care. The last area of focus discussed is the implementation of wellness initiatives. Research indicates that wellness programs in the workplace can increase productivity, decrease absenteeism, and save money by lowering insurance premium costs. Wellness programs also create a culture of health that allows the team to become more aware of the importance of personal health choices.

Using the aforementioned principles can provide guidance towards fostering positive group dynamics that are both effective and efficient. Each must be used in collaboration with support from all members to satisfy its intended benefit.