The office policy manual is something that's easy to push to the back burner.  When working on getting your practice up and running, it's just not something that is a priority.

But it should be and here's why.

Without written policies, those working for you lack the guidance that will determine their behavior.  With a policy manual, which has been read by all and available for reference, people know the expectations.

An example is winter weather. 

As I write this, there is a blizzard warning for my state.  What is the expectation for me to report for work tomorrow when there's 12 inches of snow blowing around in 50 mph winds?  Without a policy, I would need to guess. 

With a policy in place, though, I know exactly what to do.  I know how an office closure would be communicated.  I know my options to stay home, if I choose.  The expectations have been communicated and everyone knows what to do.

The time to write your policies is before you need them.  After situations occur, you will undoubtedly need to revise policies for the reality of your experience.  But it is better to have something in place to ensure your office runs as it should and your patients are well-cared for.