There are four generations of people employed in health care. Consider how each reacts to situations that put patients at risk for medical errors and medical malpractice. These guidelines are generalities and may not apply to a particular person.

1. Veterans or Traditionalists

This generation has born between 1927 and 1946.

They have specific values such as “remember the lessons of history”. They have loyalty to the organization. The Veterans worked to get their retirement. They have a nose to the grindstone work ethic. They are the keepers of the institutional memory. They tend to be patriotic, polite, and fiscally conservative.

They have a high work ethic and are the senior employees and physicians, eyeing retirement and considering slowing down trial practice. Many of them are influenced by a military model as they grew up in World War II. They understand and follow a chain of command.

2. Baby Boomers

Born between 1946 and 1964, Baby Boomers are the largest group. They were influenced by several events in the tumultuous world of the 60s including the civil rights movement.

The Baby Boomers have a strong work ethic. They are workaholics and loyal to the organization. They will stay until the work is done. They are highly competitive, question authority, and invented the type A personality. They have an overwhelming need to succeed.

The Baby Boomer believes in teamwork and consensus building. They are optimistic.

Baby Boomers are often found in management positions.

The Baby Boomer is uncomfortable with conflict and reluctant to go against peers. It is hard for them to ask for help; they have difficulty admitting something is wrong. This may influence their behavior when caught up in a situation that could lead to patient injury.

Read part two here.

Med League provides medical expert witnesses to trial lawyers. Please call us at (908)788-8227 or contact us today to discuss your next case.