Practical Institutional Politics for Doctors

Now that family physicians again find themselves moving more and more into contractual and employee relationships with hospitals and other large organizations, understanding and practicing effective interpersonal and communication skills has become critical to professional success. The age of the lone wolf physician is gone, and trying to do things the old way is an exercise in futility. Here are tips for getting along and communicating well within an organization: 1. Learn to negotiate. 2. Go to the right source. 3. Focus on the individual. 4. Don't forget yourself. 5. Be constructive and useful. Working within an organization presents special stresses and challenges for physicians, but those who understand how to get along and communicate well with others will have a head start toward success.