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Last updated on Mar 7, 2025
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  3. Working with Physicians

A physician is ignoring established project protocols. How do you handle this challenging situation?

How would you approach a physician who bypasses project protocols? Share your strategies for handling such complex situations.

Working with Physicians Working with Physicians

Working with Physicians

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Last updated on Mar 7, 2025
  1. All
  2. Healthcare
  3. Working with Physicians

A physician is ignoring established project protocols. How do you handle this challenging situation?

How would you approach a physician who bypasses project protocols? Share your strategies for handling such complex situations.

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7 answers
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    Okechukwu Ekemezie

    Cruise Ship Medical Director

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    Here's how I will handle the situation.. 1- Empathy; use emotional intelligence skills to understand the physician's point of view and his candid reasons. 2- communication; I will effectively communicate with him with good listening skills and make it a dialogue rather than a monologue. 3- intelligent reasoning; help him understand why established protocols are necessary for all healthcare professionals.

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    Jennifer N.

    I Know A Few Things | The Trauma Safe Lab Podcast | Categories & Systems Thinker | Founder's Wife | Nandanator 🦸♀️ | RN, MBA

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    Depends on the situation and MD. Usually you figure out the why. Then give your perspective. And if it’s unsafe you get the manager or attending involved. If this Md is the attending then you get his department head involved. HR/Legal is also an option.

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    Dr Vibha Jain

    Digital Healthcare Transformation | Clinical Analytics Expert | Advocate for Preventive Medicine | Strategic Advisor

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    Handling a physician ignoring project protocols requires a balanced approach: - Start with a private conversation: Understand their perspective without confrontation. - Clarify the impact: Explain how deviating from protocols affects patient care and project outcomes. - Reinforce collaboration: Emphasize that protocols ensure consistency and safety for everyone involved. - Offer solutions: Suggest adjustments or address any gaps they’ve noticed. - Document professionally: Keep records of the discussion for accountability. Respect and communication build alignment, not authority alone.

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    Yeh F.

    CCM | ACM-RN | Case Manager | Advocate for clients’ directives, securing services in their health insurance plans and providing wellness and autonomy

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    1. **Address the behavior directly** "Hey Dr. [Name], noticed the project protocol isn't being followed lately—can we chat about how we can align on this?" Make sure to listen and offer solutions, focusing on collaboration. 2. **Invite open discussion** "Noticed some deviations from protocol—let's sync up to see if there's a better way to make things flow." Suggest a meeting to clarify any misunderstandings. 3. **Reflect my own values** "Protocols are key, but if there's a better way, I’m all ears—let’s make sure we’re both on the same page." Revisit team goals and core values for alignment.

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    Jessica Stewart, MHA, MPH

    Healthcare Consultant | Operations and Growth Strategies | Founder and Principal Consultant @ Good Stewart Consulting, LLC

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    I address it directly but respectfully. I start with a one-on-one conversation to understand their perspective and explain the “why” behind the protocols—how they support patient care, team efficiency, and overall project success. I’m clear about expectations, but I also make space for collaboration. Physicians value autonomy, but accountability still matters. It’s not about calling someone out—it’s about bringing them back into alignment with the bigger picture. Leadership means having the hard conversations early—before small issues become bigger problems.

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    Brett Ray

    Strategic Minded Consulting- Mid-Rev Cycle Staffing Strategist - Coding, CM/UM & CDI Optimization - Helping to Ensure Maximum Quality and Increased Rev Cycle Efficiencies. = Problem Solver... Lets chat!

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    If you can, tie it to the bottom line and explain the protocols are in place to protect Reimbursement (AKA their pocketbook).

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    Cheryl Meriot, ACC (ICF), CEC, CCHt.🇨🇦

    💎Crush Doubt, Lead Fiercely, Thrive on Your Terms✨ | Partnering with High-Achiever's to Reclaim Confidence, Balance, and Purpose🌿|

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    Assume positive intent and get curious. Instead of pushing compliance, ask: “What’s your perspective on the protocols?” or “What’s getting in the way of following them?” Resistance often signals deeper concerns—lack of buy-in, overwhelm, or past experiences. Meet them where they are, not where you think they should be. Collaboration, not correction, builds alignment.

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