Does your physician practice employee policy manual address sexual harassment?

If you have a policy manual, does it? As the spotlight continues to grow on workplace sexual harassment, it is more important than ever for medical practices to take the time to review their policies in order to help prevent or defend against sexual harassment claims.

A comprehensive sexual harassment policy is the first step in preventing sexual harassment issues. Effectively communicating and implementing a strong policy gives employees an understanding of what constitutes sexual harassment in your workplace, the mechanisms for report­ing sexual harassment, and the consequences for violat­ing the policy.

It is particularly important that medical practice employers convey this information to physicians, administrators, or those acting in a supervisory capacity. By outlining the rules and the consequences for violating these policies, you will be are better prepared to effectively respond to sexual harassment claims.