What do you do if conflicts in healthcare management are left unresolved?

1 Causes of conflicts

Conflicts in healthcare management can arise from various sources, such as differences in values, goals, expectations, personalities, communication styles, power dynamics, resources, policies, procedures, or roles. Some of the factors that can increase the likelihood or intensity of conflicts in healthcare settings are: high stress levels, time pressure, workload, uncertainty, change, diversity, interdependence, competition, or ethical dilemmas. Conflicts can occur between different stakeholders, such as managers, staff, patients, families, or external parties.

4 Management of conflicts

Managing and resolving conflicts in healthcare management requires appropriate and constructive methods that address the underlying issues and interests of the parties involved, while preserving or enhancing relationships and outcomes. To do this, it's important to identify and acknowledge the existence and source of the conflict, as well as express the willingness to resolve it. Involve relevant and representative parties in the process, while actively listening to each other's perspectives and feelings. Utilize objective and factual information and evidence to support arguments, while avoiding personal attacks, assumptions, or judgments. Additionally, generate and evaluate various options to address the conflict, then implement an agreed solution that meets all parties' needs. Finally, provide feedback and follow-up to ensure that the conflict is resolved satisfactorily and sustainably.

5 Benefits of conflicts

Conflicts in healthcare management can also have positive effects if they are handled effectively and constructively. These conflicts can provide opportunities for learning and growth, as they can stimulate the thinking, creativity, and innovation of the parties involved and expose them to new ideas, information, and perspectives. Additionally, conflicts can highlight and address the problems, gaps, or weaknesses in the healthcare process and motivate the parties involved to find better ways of doing things. Lastly, conflicts can enhance the trust, respect, understanding, and collaboration among the parties involved and strengthen their bonds and commitment.