If you encounter questionable practices, whom should you report them to first?

Reporting questionable practices to your supervisor first is essential in most organizational protocols, especially in healthcare environments like Houston Methodist. Supervisors are typically responsible for addressing issues within their teams and are equipped to escalate matters appropriately. They possess the authority to initiate investigations, implement corrective measures, and ensure that patient safety and organizational standards are upheld.

Involving coworkers might create a conflict of interest or exacerbate the issue rather than resolve it. Additionally, reporting to the media or family members is not appropriate, as these avenues do not align with internal processes for managing safety concerns and can compromise confidentiality and integrity. Following the chain of command by reporting to a supervisor ensures that the issue is handled professionally and ethically, fostering a culture of accountability and safety within the organization.