Some O.D.s feel threatened by a technician doing what has always been the doctor's job, or they think patients will decide the O.D. is not a necessary part of the exam. A technical and administrative staff is a key element in providing excellent patient service. Patients generally receive care provided by health-care technicians very well, but they look to the doctor for clues on all aspects of care. If you think the procedures your techs perform are second class, patients will sense it. If you have confidence and respect for the technician, patients will feel confident.
Technicians actually elevate the status of the doctor in the eyes of the patient.
The myth of false economy. The reality is you can't afford to do most of the routine tasks yourself. You will have to give employees salary increases as their responsi-bilities increase, but this is still more economical than doing everything yourself. Also, employees often leave when they have no opportunities for professional growth or salary increases. Give your employees these opportunities, and you'll likely reduce staff turnover.