Tip of the week: Don't underestimate the value of a physician conduct policy

A physician conduct policy establishes clear expectations to which all medical staff members must adhere. Keep the following in mind when developing such expectations:

• Distribute draft expectations to the medical staff
• Ensure a long lead time for discussing draft expectations before they are brought to a vote
• Encourage criticism and input on the draft expectations from every physician
• Assign an individual to speak directly and privately with each formal and informal opinion leader on the medical staff
• Incorporate changes to the draft expectations recommended by physicians who weren't involved in developing the initial draft of expectations
• Communicate openly about the process at every step