A vital component of hiring (and continually training) talented ophthalmic staff depends on whether the practice management successfully educates them.

Like many other facets of life, education is a continual process. As professionals, we should view it no differently when inside the walls of our practice. From the first day of work, and throughout the employment term, an organized educational program is a key to retaining valuable employees.

Here are six tips to ensure that you have a successful staff education program.

1. Review the educational expectations early.

This should happen at the time of hire, if not sooner.

2. Use an “orientation checklist.”

Review the orientation checklist with the new hire at the conclusion of the orientation or introductory period. The goal is to agree that all important elements have been covered, the employee has an understanding of the topic/job, and the training for each section is documented.

The person who provides the education should sign off, line by line, and date the document. Also, have the employee sign a statement at the bottom of the checklist, indicating that he or she has an understanding of the various educational components provided during the initial weeks of job training. Use this opportunity to discuss any topics that are unclear or require additional opportunities for training or educating. The employee and the manager should agree that all educational training needs have been completed.

3. Conduct additional training.

Be sure that education on OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens was completed within the first 10 days of employment and that you have offered the Hepatitis B vaccination series, if the employee has any risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

Also, offer HIPAA training immediately after hire, and document the training.

4. Offer annual, documented retraining.

These should occur on several topics. These topics may vary slightly from state to state, but generally include:

• OSHA
• HIPAA
• Civil rights
• Compliance with federal laws, such as Medicare.

Be aware that training requirements for ASCs and your private practice may be different; these are two different businesses, and “one size may not fit all” for training needs.

5. Review personnel policies.

This should occur as needed. Also, include an annual review, particularly with any employment law change or update.

6. Document, document, document.

Keep a sign-in sheet for any educational programs offered. If using slides or handouts, attach a copy to the sign-in sheet and keep it on file.

If using distance learning, online training, or other similar material, keep some type of copy or certificate. Online resources may be used as a supplement or even a replacement if your budget does not permit travel and education time. OP

Ms. Cook is the administrator of the Laurel Eye Clinic and the Laurel Laser & Surgery Centers. A Certified Ophthalmic Executive and Certified Administrator Surgery Center, she is a registered nurse and also has a degree in Health Care Administration.