Dr. Kin Ong, a primary care doctor and Senior Director at SCAN Health Plan, shares valuable insights on managing constant change within healthcare organizations. The discussion emphasizes the significance of open communication and emotional intelligence to support teams during transitions. Strategies for avoiding burnout and fostering team engagement are highlighted. Dr. Ong also explores the importance of involving staff in discussions and celebrating small successes to maintain morale, making it clear that navigating change can empower teams rather than overwhelm them.
Effective change management hinges on understanding employee emotions and fostering open communication to maintain morale during transitions.
Implementing technological innovations while involving staff in improvement discussions enhances service delivery and empowers team engagement.
Deep dives
Navigating Change Fatigue in Organizations
Change fatigue can significantly impact both employees and organizations undergoing transformation. Dr. Kin Ong at SCAN Health Plan faces the challenge of maintaining team morale while implementing necessary program innovations to support their members. Acknowledging that change is constant in the healthcare sector, he emphasizes the importance of addressing employee feelings and ensuring that their voices are heard during the process. By celebrating wins and facilitating discussions around challenges, organizations can create an environment where staff feel valued and engaged despite ongoing changes.
The Importance of Emotional Well-being
Understanding the emotional rollercoaster of the change curve is crucial for leaders managing change initiatives. As team members progress through various emotional stages, from excitement to fatigue, leaders must provide support and acknowledge the challenges they face. Dr. Ong highlights the significance of connecting with employees on this level, as it fosters an atmosphere of trust and solidarity, which is vital for sustaining momentum. By investing in employee well-being and recognizing their emotional states, organizations can better navigate turbulent periods of transition.
Advancing Technology to Improve Service Delivery
Implementing technological innovations is a vital strategy for enhancing service delivery at SCAN Health Plan. Dr. Ong has led efforts to optimize workflows for field-based teams, ensuring that community health workers can better serve members while reducing administrative burdens. By involving staff in identifying areas for improvement, the organization has made considerable strides in streamlining processes and using technology effectively in their operations. This focus on innovation not only improves member outcomes but also strengthens team engagement by giving staff a sense of ownership over their work.
Balancing Stakeholder Needs and Organizational Goals
Successfully managing change requires a delicate balance between the needs of team members and organizational goals. Leaders must actively engage with employees to assess the effectiveness of implemented changes, ensuring that team morale is not overlooked while focusing on member service. Dr. Ong's commitment to transparency and open communication fosters a collaborative environment where everyone feels heard, creating pathways for ongoing improvement. This strategic approach underlines that when employees feel empowered and acknowledged, they are more likely to contribute positively to the organization's mission.
The only thing we can guarantee will happen…is change. So how do you make transitions less painful and more empowering? This week, Anne and Frances get a call from a listener — a doctor and Senior Director of a healthcare non-profit — whose organization’s success means new ways of working for her team. Anne and Frances help her find ways to avoid burnout, recenter her team, and collectively accelerate the mission. They share clear communication tactics for managing fast-moving change and retaining your best people.
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