Discussion Question:
Describe the organizational characteristics of a facility in which you currently work. Include the following: the type of organization, its organizational culture, its structure, and its formal and informal goals and processes.
Define three different kinds of power, and describe how power affects the relationships between people of different disciplines (e.g., between staff in nursing, medicine, physical therapy, housekeeping, administration, finance, social work) in a health-care organization.
Your initial posting should be at least 400 words in length and utilize at least one scholarly source other than the textbook.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
In the facility where I currently work, the organizational characteristics play a significant role in shaping the overall functioning and dynamics of the healthcare setting. This facility is a large tertiary care hospital that provides comprehensive medical services to a diverse patient population. It follows a hierarchical organizational structure with a strong emphasis on teamwork and collaboration. The organizational culture is focused on patient-centered care, innovation, and continuous quality improvement.
The organizational structure of the facility is hierarchical in nature, with clear lines of authority and responsibility. It is divided into various departments, such as nursing, medicine, physical therapy, housekeeping, administration, finance, and social work. Each department has its own set of goals and processes, which are aligned with the overall mission and vision of the organization.
Formal Goals and Processes:
The formal goals of the facility include providing high-quality patient care, ensuring patient safety, promoting evidence-based practices, and maintaining fiscal responsibility. To achieve these goals, the facility follows standardized protocols and guidelines, conducts regular quality audits, and engages in continuous process improvement initiatives. The facility also has formal processes in place for decision-making, resource allocation, and performance evaluation.
Informal Goals and Processes:
In addition to formal goals and processes, the facility also has informal goals and processes that influence the day-to-day functioning. These informal goals may include fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, promoting a supportive work environment, and encouraging open communication among staff members. Informal processes, such as informal consultations, informal exchanges of information, and social events, also contribute to the overall functioning and cohesion of the organization.
Different Kinds of Power and their Impact on Interdisciplinary Relationships:
1. Legitimate Power:
Legitimate power is derived from an individual’s official position or formal authority within the organization. In a healthcare setting, legitimate power can be observed between individuals of different disciplines, such as physicians, nurses, and administrators. This power dynamic can affect the relationships among staff members, as individuals with higher levels of legitimate power may have more influence over decision-making processes and resource allocation. However, it is important to note that legitimate power should be exercised in a collaborative and respectful manner to maintain positive interdisciplinary relationships.
2. Expert Power:
Expert power is based on an individual’s expertise, knowledge, or skills in a particular field. In a healthcare organization, individuals with specialized knowledge, such as physicians, pharmacists, or physical therapists, may possess expert power. This power dynamic can impact interdisciplinary relationships as individuals with expert power may be seen as valuable resources and may have a greater influence on clinical decision-making or treatment plans. However, it is crucial to foster a culture of mutual respect and shared decision-making to ensure effective interdisciplinary collaboration.
3. Referent Power:
Referent power is based on personal attributes, relationships, or admiration from others. In a healthcare setting, referent power can be observed between individuals who are respected, admired, or trusted by their colleagues. This power dynamic can positively impact interdisciplinary relationships, as individuals with referent power can serve as role models, mentors, or sources of support for other staff members. Such relationships can enhance collaborative approaches and foster a culture of teamwork.
In conclusion, the organizational characteristics of the facility where I work include a hierarchical structure, a patient-centered culture, and formal and informal goals and processes. The three types of power – legitimate, expert, and referent – have varying effects on the relationships between people of different disciplines in a healthcare organization. It is crucial to foster a culture of collaboration, respect, and shared decision-making to ensure effective interdisciplinary relationships and enhance patient care.
