Perspectives: Clinician Well-Being Insights for Healthcare Leaders

Webinar: Bridging the Divide Between Performance and Support

Written by Sarah DeMarco, MA | April 9, 2026

In the high-stakes environment of healthcare, "performance management" is often a phrase that triggers anxiety for both leaders and their teams. However, when an employee’s performance begins to slip, it is rarely a simple matter of capability. More often, it is a signal of underlying distress — what we call the Accountability Gap. 

The challenge for healthcare leaders is navigating the fine line between clinical risk management and empathetic support. When should a performance issue trigger a formal referral? And how can a leader approach that conversation with enough clarity to manage risk, but enough care to preserve the human connection? 

Beyond the "Checkbox" Referral 

On May 13, we are diving deep into these questions during our latest webinar in the 2026 Leadership Development Series: "The Accountability Gap: Mastering the Formal Referral Process to Safely Manage Staff Performance & Risk."

Too often, the formal referral process is viewed as a last-resort disciplinary measure. In reality, a well-executed referral is one of the most proactive tools a leader has to stabilize a team. It is a strategic bridge that connects organizational policy with the specialized support of an Enhanced EAP

What We Will Explore

This session is designed to move leaders beyond the "wait and see" approach, providing a clear framework for high-stakes interventions: 

  • Identification: Learn how to distinguish between a coaching opportunity and a situation where a formal referral is the most appropriate (and safest) path forward.
  • The Approach: Master the art of the conversation. We will share strategies for approaching employees with care and clarity — ensuring the message of accountability is heard without compromising the employee's dignity. 
  • System Integration: Understand how the referral process integrates seamlessly with your organizational policies and your EAP resources to protect both the organization and the employee. 

Leadership as a Safety System  

As we look harder at the shifts in healthcare leadership standards, the ability to manage performance through the lens of well-being is becoming a core competency. By mastering the formal referral process, you aren't just closing a performance gap; you are strengthening your organization’s safety system. 

Don't let the accountability gap become a liability for your team. Join us to learn how to turn a difficult process into a powerful catalyst for restoration and risk mitigation. 

Webinar Details