Practice management: Why German GPs and specialists would be more successful with positivity

What it’s all about

One aspect of the development opportunities for practice management in German medical practices remains almost unnoticed: positivity. Its absence as a practice value leads to a multitude of barriers that limit the performance potential that can be activated in every respect.

The difference between positivity and positive thinking

The term “positivity” refers to the principle of focussing on positive things. In contrast to positive thinking, which attempts to turn an imagined ideal into reality, possibly also by redefining what exists, the former approach refers to paying attention to positive situations and experiences in reality, but without ignoring negative aspects.

Lack of positivity in everyday practice

Positivity is a value that should not be missing in any medical practice due to its motivational effect, but is actually given far too little attention.
The “classic” lack of positivity is the search for mistakes and those responsible in order to penalise mismanagement.

The lack of positivity not only has an impact on cooperation between practice teams, but also on the practice-patient relationship. The owner determines whether positivity prevails in a practice. If medical assistants are constantly confronted with negative statements, their energy, which always follows their attention, is focussed on the negative. From a purely objective point of view, this can make sense in individual cases, as, for example, more attention is paid to avoiding errors, but it is counterproductive in terms of motivation, as they lose sight of the strengths and positive aspects of the work. This kind of one-sided conditioning also gradually characterises the relationship with patients and focuses on the aspects that do not work, e.g. a forgotten insurance card, which are then overrated.

The role of the practice owner’s attitude in promoting positivity

The attitude and behaviour of practice owners play a crucial role in shaping the working atmosphere and general mood in a medical practice. As managers, they have a direct influence on the culture and working atmosphere within their organisation. Their attitude can either help promote positivity and a supportive work environment or reinforce negativity and dissatisfaction.

Role modelling and leading by example

Practice owners act as role models for their staff. Their attitude and behaviour in their daily work set the tone for the entire team. If practice owners demonstrate a positive attitude, remain calm and solution-oriented even in stressful situations and promote respectful interaction, then employees tend to adopt these behaviours. Conversely, negative attitudes such as cynicism, impatience or an excessive emphasis on mistakes can have a negative impact on the general mood.

Influence on the communication culture

The way in which practice owners communicate has a direct impact on interpersonal relationships within the practice. Open, transparent and respectful communication creates an atmosphere of togetherness and trust. In contrast, when practice owners communicate in a distant, unclear or patronising manner, this results in misunderstandings, frustration and an overall negative working environment. A positive communication culture encourages employees to talk openly about problems and work together to find solutions.

Recognition and appreciation

Recognising the work and achievements of employees is another important factor for their motivation and satisfaction. Practice owners who regularly express appreciation and recognise the achievements of their team help to create a positive and motivating working atmosphere. If this recognition is lacking, employees feel undervalued and demotivated, which increases negativity within the team.

Dealing with stress and challenges

How practice owners deal with stress and challenges also has a significant impact. Keeping calm during stressful times, setting clear priorities and offering support will help the whole team feel more confident and supported. A hectic, chaotic or panicked management style, on the other hand, can lead to increased tension and stress among staff, which can increase negativity.

Promoting teamwork and cohesion

The practice owner’s attitude towards teamwork and cohesion within the practice is of course also crucial. A supportive and co-operative working environment in which employees are encouraged to work together and support each other increases positivity in the long term. Practice owners who consciously or unconsciously initiate competition and lone wolf behaviour, on the other hand, create an environment in which mistrust and negativity can thrive.

Attitude towards change and innovation

Doctors who are open to change and innovation create a dynamic and future-orientated working environment in which motivation and commitment are supported. A rigid attitude towards change and a defensive attitude towards new ideas, on the other hand, can lead to frustration and a stagnant working atmosphere.

Conclusion

Positivity does not exclude objective criticism, but always places it in the context of a positive basic atmosphere, which is essential for productive and motivated cooperation in medical practices. The practice owners are responsible for shaping this. At the same time, it also offers staff emotional security and orientation.