Avoid Conflict at Your Practice with Solid Accounting Methods
When you are working with other therapists in a private practice arguments and conflicts are bound to occur.
It is important that before you begin to employ other therapists or join a private practice you are clear about what is expected from you, and what you can expect in return.
In truth, therapists are just like other professionals. They want to do their job well and enjoy the rewards associated with servicing their clients’ needs.
One issue that often arises in jointly run or shared model practices is disputes over financial reimbursement.
It is crucial that your practice has very clearly defined accounting methods that are agreed to by everyone who works in it, whether they are therapists or support staff.
Avoid Conflict at Your Practice with Solid Accounting Methods
Ensure Accounting Methods are Clearly Understood and Followed
Make sure your financial records are up to date and transparent. Many arguments will occur if one person thinks they are paying for services they are not getting the full use of, or if someone seems to be getting more than their fair share.
If your practice employs a percentage model it will worth your while creating templates which should be used by all therapists when submitting their hourly rates.
As well, you need to have other expenses clearly outlined so there are no discrepancies between hours worked and the opportunity to access the practice’s resources.
Create a Policy Handbook to Avoid Disputes
Create a Policy and Procedure Handbook
Creating a policy and procedure handbook for your practice is a good way to ensure that everyone, therapists and supporting staff, know what is expected of them, and what they can expect in return.
If everyone reads and accepts what it contains and if a dispute does arise you can deter any complaints to the handbook, and solve the matter quickly and with minimal disruption to the practice.
