ONET is a collection of job analyses compiled by the DOL and can be accessed at online.onetcenter.org. The job analyses located on the site are a great place to start, and can be used as a template that can be further developed and customized to fit what is needed at the practice. The Occupational Outlook Handbook can be accessed through the U.S. DOL’s Bureau of Labor statistics. The handbook gives the training and education requirements, required earnings, description of typical job duties and working environments for many different types of jobs. The end process of a job analysis is a written job description, which should be a one- or two-page outline that can be use in a compensation system, performance appraisal and selection system.
Develop Personnel Policies, Procedures & an Employee Handbook
Creating written company policies and an employee handbook may seem daunting, but this is necessary to protect the practice. There are many resources available online, including downloadable templates that can be modified to fit the needs of the practice.
The employee handbook is a collection of the practice’s policies, office procedures, mission, goal and other employment information that is used to guide the employee and clearly define their role. The handbook should illuminate the policies and expectations, and ensure uniformity in the way things are handled in conducting the business of the practice. The handbook is meant to simply be a guide—not a contract—and therefore should be unilateral and appropriate for the entire organization, not specific to any one position or department.
The employee handbook has many purposes. It should provide consistent answers to employment questions and evidence of formal policies that may be needed. It is also a vehicle to communicate the history, ethics and goals of the organization. Most importantly, the handbook is necessary to ensure compliance with various government regulations relating to patient safety and employment.
Keep in mind, as the physician practice owner, you are solely responsible for all policies and statements contained in the employee handbook, regardless of where it came from or who authored the book. It is recommended that an attorney review the content in the employee handbook for appropriate wording and potential legal implications before distribution.
Also, there are some employment policies mandated by law that must be physically posted where employees can easily access and view them. The DOL provides a guide on its website that has a series of questions to help determine which laws apply to the business. After you complete the questionnaire, a customized list of required posters will be provided, and the posters will be sent by the DOL to employers at no cost.
