Fundamentals of Hospital Management

This document serves as a resource guide on the fundamentals of hospital management, such as communication, improving as a manager, and setting reasonable goals for your facility. In addition, there are links to free resources throughout the document to expand on points made in the guide.

Communication Resources

When managing a group of individuals, whether it is in a particular department or an entire hospital facility, there are several tools you can put in your toolbox for future use. Even with experience and practice, taking on this kind of responsibility can be overwhelming. There are several resources linked below for creating a solid foundation for communication and addressing concerns within your team:

Improving As a Manager

Good managers constantly look for ways to improve themselves and their management style, seek feedback from their employees and higher-ups, and develop new skills to bring to their meetings. Here are 10 Characteristics of an Effective Manager, Soft Skills You Need As a Good Manager, and How to Be a Better Manager: 11 Tips.

  • Practicing Consistency and Reliability– Managers must be predictable in that they are consistently reliable. When a manager is consistent, it is much easier for them to require and expect their employees to be consistent and reliable.
  • The Power of Consistency in Leadership
  • 12 Elements of Effective Reliability Management
  • Managing “Up”– When a manager’s “upper” is facing personal challenges, unusually busy, or having an off day, stepping up to the plate is an essential display of your competence as a manager. Generally, the flow of communication in a hierarchy is down, but sometimes the flow from your position can go to your higher-up(s). Build a solid relationship with your supervisor(s) and use your relationship to anticipate their needs effectively.
  • Managing Up-How to Lead When You are Not the Boss
  • Gaining Trust– By treating your employees as people (rather than numbers), admitting mistakes, overcoming personal biases, and giving credit when it is due, you as the manager gain trust from your employees. Without trust between supervisors and their teams, there is no adequate model for feedback. Gaining trust does not happen overnight, but it can create a positive work culture with the right tools and communication.
  • 7 Ways Managers Can Gain Trust in the Workplace
  • Making Decisions and Accepting Responsibility– By taking responsibility for decisions you have made for yourself and on behalf of your team, you are putting yourself on the line for your employees and your ability to perform well as a leader.
  • Taking Responsibility is the Highest Mark of Great Leaders
  • Helping People Take Responsibility
  • Keeping Up your Enthusiasm– Talent seeks out other talents. Bringing out the best in your team and conveying your passion for your work is essential to providing a positive work environment and culture.
  • 12 Ways to Be the Leader Everyone Wants to Work for
  • Hospital Management Courses– Seek out webinars, seminars, classes, and courses you can attend to become a better leader, manager, and member of your team.

Goal Setting

Additional Resources: