How to Avoid Political Discussions with Patients During Examinations

by G. Richard Holt, MD, MSE, MPH, MABE, D Bioethics •

Dr. Holt is professor emeritus and clinical professor in the department of otolaryngology–head and neck surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio.

Politics and the Workplace

Talking politics can also be disruptive to a positive, harmonious work environment, creating division between employees and isolating individuals with unpopular beliefs. These suggestions can help you keep politics out of your practice:

  • Set a good example by avoiding political or other controversial topics during working hours, even if you share the same beliefs as those being expressed by your co-workers.
  • Stay engaged with the conversations happening in your practice or facility by actively listening.
  • Don’t make jokes about controversial topics, and gently but firmly let others know that these types of jokes are not acceptable at your practice.
  • If you hear a political conversation, politely but firmly remind employees that these discussions belong outside the workplace. Don’t wait to intervene until the conversation becomes aggressive, disrespectful, or threatening, or if a confrontation goes from verbal to physical.