What Is a Handbook?

In the world of human resources, a handbook refers to an employee handbook. This valuable communication resource is intended to support both the employee and the employer. Covering everything from a company's mission and history to its policies and benefits, this written document provides clarity and guidance for employees while reducing employer liability.

Some of the core goals associated with an employee handbook include

• Communicate company policies and procedures.
• Set expectations for employee conduct.
• Reduce liability.
• Give new employees insight into your company.

Whether you own a veterinary clinic, an optometry practice, dental practice, or any other healthcare-related business, there is a lot to cover. Taking the time to invest in a comprehensive handbook now can help you save time, money, and your reputation in the future.

Employee Handbooks in the Healthcare Industry

Just as every industry is unique, so is every practice in terms of company culture, compensation, discipline, etc.

While digital files benefit so many companies across a wide spectrum of industries, digital record-keeping has revolutionized healthcare. Digital technology transformed patient information while strengthening employer-employee relationships.

The key is using technology to your advantage, especially in terms of a comprehensive employee handbook. Instead of relying on casual conversation, team meetings, or emails, you need to create an employee handbook that sets clear expectations. That way, all of your team members are on the same page, leaving little room for error.

For example, have you clearly outlined how your practice handles sick leave? What about paid holidays and overtime?

An employee handbook is your opportunity to present everything your employees would need to know. This helps your team remain in the know — plus without one, you could face legal ramifications due to negligence. While all employees should be informed whenever changes are made to the handbook, more often than not, it is used as an onboarding tool.

What to Include in Your Employee Handbook

As discussed, each practice is unique in terms of how they handle certain situations. However, when it comes to employment laws, this information is fairly black and white. That is why it's so important for you to understand the laws regarding your practice.

In addition to employment laws, you should offer detailed insight into who you are as a practice and why you have outlined the policies presented in your handbook. The more personalized and informative your handbook is, the more likely your team will read it in its entirety. The more you share with your team, the more they can contribute to your overall vision and goals.

Your employee handbook should include:

• Your practice's history, values, mission, and goals.
• Your company culture.
• All legal information surrounding employment and HR.
• Your practice's policies and regulations.
• Employee benefits and perks.

Structure your handbook so that it covers everything an employee would need to know, including everything about work performance, work conditions, discipline policies, anti-discrimination policies, and more. Your completed handbook should provide clear expectations so that if a select situation arises, there are no surprises. You need to protect your employees and your practice, so be as detailed as possible.

Recommended Reading: Why Your Employee Handbook is Your First Line of Defense

HR for Health Can Help

HR for Health will help you create a customized handbook that covers all the bases. After all, each state and individual practice differ in terms of set standards, culture, expectations, etc. While working with HR for Health, you will receive a handbook that is:

• Developed by HR specialists and employment attorneys
• Comprehensive, covering all associated best practices and policies based on your individual goals and mission
• Tailored to the size and location of your practice, focusing on federal and state-compliant policies
• Updated annually at no extra charge

Learn more about all of HR for Health's software features and call us to get started today!