a handbook for supervising allied health professionals - HETI - NSW ...

An effective way to ensure that expectations of the supervisory relationship are clear at
the outset is by completing a supervision contract. Whilst this is separate to the managing
for performance process, the two are both linked to productivity and performance of the
individual clinician.
A supervision contract is a document which outlines the parameters of the relationship
including the responsibilities of each individual. It is signed by both parties and forms the
basis of the supervisory relationship. A copy should be kept by the supervisor, supervisee
and the line manager (if applicable) in a central file as a reference document.
Items covered in a supervision contract may include:
• requirements as outlined in the local supervision policy
Supervision contracts
• goals of supervision
Confidentiality
This includes:
SECOND EDITION
• frequency and time allocation for supervision
• parameters of confidentiality within the supervisory relationship
• evaluation of the supervision process
• the process if either party feels the supervisory relationship is not working or that
the contract has been broken.
Examples of supervision contracts are given in Appendix A (page 72) and Appendix B (page 73).
Confidentiality is vital to supervision. Agreeing on the parameters of confidentiality
protects personal and sensitive information and upholds professional integrity
(Country SA 2009).
Confidentiality should be discussed as part of establishing the supervision contract.
• mutually agreed reporting procedures if duty of care issues are raised by the
supervisee
• mutually agreed reporting procedures if the supervisor has duty of care concerns
pertaining to the supervisee
• agreement in relation to what feedback can be given to the line manager
• ensuring discussions are held in private and documentation is kept in a secure
place.
It is important for staff to be aware that there are limits to a confidentiality
agreement in the case of misconduct or following adverse patient care events.
HETI
THE SUPERGUIDE
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