As an Advanced Practitioner, your relationship with your Supervising Physician is crucial to your professional success. A supportive Supervising Physician can significantly enhance your clinical practice by providing essential guidance and mentorship. However, what should you do when this relationship becomes more challenging or even adversarial? If you’re navigating a difficult relationship with your Supervising Physician, consider these effective strategies to improve the dynamic and maintain a productive work environment.
Focus on the Issues
Take a step back and ask yourself what's really bothering you about your relationship with your Supervising Physician. Is there a particular topic or situation that triggers tension? Does it happen at a specific time of day or in a certain setting? By zeroing in on these issues, you can better understand what's driving the conflict and how to address it. For advanced practitioners, pinpointing the exact problems is the first step in finding a solution.
Investigate What May Be Driving Their Behavior
People usually act out for a reason, often related to something they're dealing with personally or professionally. Is your Supervising Physician overwhelmed with their workload? Are they going through something in their personal life? Or could it be a reaction to something specific in your interactions? If this person has a history of being difficult with others, it might not be about you at all. Recognizing these patterns can help advanced practitioners navigate the situation with more empathy and patience.
Check Your Attitude
It takes two to tango, as they say. Consider the attitude you're bringing into your interactions. Are you approaching conversations with an open mind and a calm demeanor? Staying nonjudgmental and empathetic can go a long way in smoothing over rough patches. In the fast-paced world of healthcare, a little bit of understanding can make all the difference.
Consider Changing Your Approach
If you keep hitting the same wall with your Supervising Physician, it might be time to try something different. Instead of repeating the same patterns, consciously shift your approach. Sometimes, a small change in how you communicate or react can lead to better outcomes and a more positive working relationship.
Have a Honest Discussion
Once you've had time to reflect, consider having an open, honest discussion with your Supervising Physician. Choose a quiet, private space where you both have time to talk without interruptions. It's important to approach the conversation calmly—when emotions are running high, it’s easy for both sides to get defensive, which can shut down productive dialogue. For advanced practitioners, clear and respectful communication is key to resolving conflicts.
Be an Active Listener
To find a solution, it’s crucial to be a good listener. Make sure to not only share your perspective but also to actively listen to what your Supervising Physician has to say. Understanding their viewpoint can help you both move toward a more collaborative relationship.
When to Consider Leaving
Not every professional relationship is meant to last. If the situation with your Supervising Physician becomes toxic, negatively impacts patient care, or makes you unhappy despite your best efforts to improve it, it might be time to consider moving on. For advanced practitioners, maintaining a healthy work environment is essential for your well-being and your ability to provide quality care.
* Originally posted on 5/26/2020. Last updated on 9/3/2024.