What does a typical day in the life of a veterinary hospital manager look like? Well, let me tell you...
Today it all began with equipment malfunctions. Does this sound familiar? First it was a CT scanner malfunction (newly replaced scanner and trailer); then it was telephone system problems, our new system was just installed last week (no dial tone and voice mail issues); then it continued with a failing water heater and commercial washer. While I worked to put out those fires, I reviewed quotes for HVAC system replacement.
Finally, I got to sit at my desk to review accounts payable, monthly financial statements and clients files.
As the afternoon continued I prepared for a doctors staff meeting, received a resignation notice from a surgery department staff member; met with a candidate for a technician supervisor position; and talked with our Human Resource director about an RVT applicant.
Not necessarily related to my core job functions, but a part of the hospital organization - I identified a specialist who can speak at our upcoming winter lecture series and looked at other potential presenters for our lecture series.
Finally, rounding out the day I updated our regional hospital listing (discovered that several changes hadn’t been updated) and purged some unnecessary items from our bulletin board.
If you are like me and would just like a “quiet day” every now and then, you might be disappointed... A veterinary manager's days are filled with uncertainty, chaos and challenges. BUT, fortunately, they are also filled with opportunity! I could easily allow myself to be dragged down by the constant fires that need to be put out or I can choose to make it a good day by facing the challenges with optimism and hard work. I find that days like today (and most days) go much smoother when I am prepared and organized. The other thing that helps keep me sane, and keep our hospital moving forward, is to lean on my team. I find that in busy, challenging times and situations, continually communicating goals, progress and outcomes with our healthcare team is essential for keeping them informed and engaged. Together, we can achieve much, much more.
Jon Cunnington, MBA, CVPM
VHMA President