Doctors, talk with your team about this CDC report

According to a report in the Wall Street Journal today, Decay rates decreased from the 1970s until the mid 1990s and are now showing what the CDC reports as “significant” increases. “The reasons for the increase aren’t entirely clear. But dental experts suggest it may be due to children drinking more bottled water that doesn’t contain fluoride, and to changes in dietary habits.” Parents count on their dental practices to keep them aware and making good choices for their children’s dental health. Let’s spread the message and turn this back around.

Planning a holiday party this year?

Holiday party HR questions, featuring Bent Ericksen & Associates * go to www.dentistryiq.com for full article

Question 2: As a multicultural office, we find it difficult to celebrate the holidays. We want to have an event in which we can all get together and celebrate, but we don’t want to be disrespectful to any employee’s beliefs. What’s the best way to handle this?

Answer: In our ever-growing diverse nation this is becoming a concern for most employers. The best way to avoid allegations of discrimination is to refrain from using religious descriptions or decorations that represent a particular belief. For example, call the celebration a “holiday party” or “a celebration of seasons” rather than a Christmas party. If your main intention for the party is to reward employees for their hard work throughout the year, you may also want to consider celebrating during a different time of the year. Sponsoring events such as a summer BBQ or a day at an amusement park, for example, are great ways to show employee appreciation while avoiding any religious connotations

EEOC* statistics reported

Here’s an impact of the economic slowdown that you might not have considered:

Discrimination claims filed with the EEOC jumped 15 percent in fiscal 2008. Sexual harassment claims jumped 29 percent. The EEOC expects 2009 stats to be higher. Don’t be part of the statistics; get your policies in place now. Contact me about the Bent Ericksen HR Director. We make easy work of getting compliant and gaining peace of mind.

*Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

What are you focusing on?

The annual ADMC (Academy of Dental Management Consultants) (ADMC.net) meeting is always a must-see event. This year was no different, especially with the location being in Waikiki, Hawaii. This is one of the few meetings that is designed by and for dental consultants and the collective brain trust in attendance is amazing!

Dr. Jerry Teplitz, a PHD in Behavioral Kinesiology demonstrated the physical manifestation of negative focus for the group. If you have ever doubted the notion that your thoughts beget your actions and your results, check out Dr. Teplitz’ website and see a snipet of his presentation http://www.teplitz.com/media/keynote/keynote1.html This should spark a great team discussion.

Disturbing new trend

I’ve been providing HR support to my clients since 2002 and I’ve seen some disturbing new trends in the just past few months in the number of calls I’m getting regarding harassment claims. It’s a whole new world as these claims are being reported between team members & guests to the practice such as vendors and delivery people.

It’s important that you let your team members know that you want them to always feel safe and comfortable while working in your practice. Have a formal no-tolerance policy in writing, along with instructions for how to report any incidents. Protect your employees & your practice.