Hospitals Nationwide Enact Policies to Comply with New Joint Commission Standards for “Disruptive Physicians”

The Joint Commission on Hospital Accreditation defines the problem in this way: “Disruptive behavior is conduct displayed by a health care professional that negatively impacts the quality or safety of care or has the potential to do so. Disruptive behavior may also intimidate staff, affect staff morale, and lead to staff turnover. Disruptive behavior may be verbal or non-verbal, and often involves the use of rude language, facial expressions, threatening manners, or even physical abuse.” All accredited hospitals are required to have policies in place to address this widespread problem.

A careful review of the above definition does not mention substance abuse or mental illness. These issues are addressed elsewhere. The popular and internationally-recognized Anderson & Anderson Anger Management/executive coaching course has been quickly accepted by Medical Licensing Boards and Hospitals throughout the country.

The key features of the Anderson & Anderson model is its built-in protection against pejorative pathological labels in the files of healthcare participants who are referred to anger management programs. The assessments used in this model are designed to gauge a client’s level of functioning in managing anger, stress, assertive communication and emotional intelligence. Skill enhancement is then addressed in the 12 session coaching course.



For more information, please contact George Anderson at 310-207-3591 or visit www.andersonservices.com