Our Philosophy

Philosophy of Our Practice

The organization, operation and management of a medical practice differs from all other commercial ventures in that we do not deal in material goods manufactured or sold for profit.  Doctors deal in a service to humankind and they deal with the ill and distressed that comes to them for only one reason - they need help and guidance.

The ultimate purpose of all work in the Institute can be stated in three words: TO HELP PEOPLE.  When our patients and guests ask for help, we must be able to provide service to them when it is needed.  The Institute has to have operating policies and rules to aid in reaching that objective.  But, every member of the health care team must understand that the objective is more important than the rules themselves.  If a rule interferes with the goal of helping people, then it must be questioned.  Perhaps, an exception should be made; perhaps, the rule should be changed.  These changes and exceptions are matters which will always be discussed with the physicians - the leaders of the health care team.

Many of the rules and policies of the Institute are intended to build the confidence the patient feels in the physicians and the other personnel who work in this office.  A strong physician/patient relationship is a must if the patient is to receive full benefit from the physician’s services.  The patient must feel sure that they can talk freely with the physician and that the physician is knowledgeable and conscientious and the Institute is well managed.  Only if these attitudes prevail, will the patient be likely to take the physician’s advice and do his part following through with the treatment plan.  YOU play an important part in building this confidence by being cheerful, friendly, tactful, neat and industrious.

Information about patients, their illnesses or their personal lives must be completely confidential.  When talking with a patient about any matter, try to do it in such a way that other patients waiting in the office will not overhear.  Case histories, confidential papers, computer screens and even the appointment book should be kept where passing patients will not see them.  Do not give advice to patients on personal matters....even if they ask for it.  It is improper for you to reveal information on a patient even to another member of the patient’s family.  If a patient or parent asks you a question about his own case, refer the patient or parent to qualified personnel.

Another important principle governing the rules and policies of the Institute is that the physician’s time is the most valuable resource in the Institute.  This resource must be used carefully if sufficient health care is to be made available to all who need it.  Regular attendance and punctuality are, therefore, absolutely necessary.  You must do everything possible to help the physicians use their time effectively.  If problems arise, efforts must be made to solve them without interrupting the physicians while they are performing their duties.

Working together as a team, we can provide the ultimate in service to the patient and have an efficient and cheerful place to work.  We encourage and challenge you to make your contribution to this most worthwhile goal.

Your employment with us automatically carries with it certain just and equitable responsibilities.  It is necessary to maintain the high standards involved in the philosophy and tradition that each member of Midwest Eye Institute individually, and all collectively, has established.