Based on an article by Jill Carlson, RMA (AMT), BS (HCA) from the AMT Pulse.
Leadership values are vital to a career in medical assisting because they shape how the office functions and influence the team’s culture and effectiveness. The five tenets below are my core values—with integrity being the cornerstone of my leadership philosophy.
Core Leadership Values
Integrity: Integrity means doing the right thing even when no one is looking—ensuring that ethical behavior is consistently maintained. This foundation of trust and honesty is crucial in leading others and making sound decisions.
Integrity ensures that actions are consistent with ethical standards, both in public and private. When everyone, especially leaders, adheres to high integrity standards, it fosters a trustworthy and reliable work environment. At work or home, integrity guides consistent, ethical actions and builds a foundation of trust and respect.
Respect: Respect involves actively listening and valuing others’ perspectives. As a leader, I respect my employees, coworkers and patients, recognizing that everyone deserves equal respect regardless of their position. This mutual respect builds trust and collaboration, essential for a harmonious workplace. In my personal life, respect for all individuals, from clerks to executives, underscores my commitment to treating everyone with dignity.
Empowerment: Empowerment is about giving people the authority and information they need to make decisions and take ownership of their roles. By sharing information and involving employees in decision making, I foster a sense of investment and responsibility. Empowered employees are more committed and productive. In my personal life, I value the empowerment that comes from making informed decisions and helping others do the same. Empowerment enhances investment and engagement in both professional and personal settings.
Courage: Courage involves speaking up and doing what is right, even when it’s difficult. In the workplace, this means addressing tough issues and making decisions that may not always be popular. This value is crucial for fostering an environment where ethical concerns are promptly addressed. In my personal life, courage helps me advocate for my family and friends, ensuring that their needs and rights are respected.
Teamwork: Teamwork is essential for achieving common goals. Working collaboratively ensures that diverse skills and perspectives are used effectively. At work, this means creating an environment where everyone feels valued and included. In my personal life, teamwork is crucial, especially as a single parent managing household responsibilities with my teenage daughters. Collaborative efforts in all aspects of life lead to better outcomes and stronger relationships.
Impact on Patient Care
My leadership values directly impact the standards of care for patients. Loyalty and dedication to both my employer and patients ensure that their needs are prioritized. I work closely with the physician and patients, empowering them to participate in their healthcare decisions. This collaborative approach leads to better patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Integrity plays a crucial role in maintaining ethical standards in healthcare administration. For instance, implementing systems to prevent theft ensures financial integrity. This was necessary after discovering the previous office manager had stolen significant amounts of money. By setting these ethical standards, I create a trustworthy environment for staff and patients.
As a medical assistant, ethics and integrity set the tone for the practice. We must consider patients’ values, norms and wishes, even when they differ from our own. For instance, respecting a patient’s decision not to be an organ donor, despite my strong personal views on the matter, demonstrates professionalism and integrity. This approach ensures all patients feel respected and understood, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Ultimately, strong leadership values are essential for creating a positive, ethical and effective workplace. By embodying integrity, respect, empowerment, courage, dedication and teamwork, I strive to lead by example and foster an environment that supports employees and patients. Leadership values are vital to a career in medical assisting because they shape how the office functions and influence the team’s culture and effectiveness. The five tenets below are my core values—with integrity being the cornerstone of my leadership philosophy.