The 2025 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) introduces several key updates that impact payment policies, rates, and quality provisions: Payment Rates: There are refinements to codes for services addressing social determinants of health, with a focus on expanding the use of billing codes for social risk assessments and care coordination. Complexity add-on payments for … [Read more...] about Physician Fee Schedule Updates for 2025 hit Telehealth, Payment Policies, Rates and Quality
Available for NL
The October Theory: An Easy Strategy for Improving Your Work Life
By Lynne Curry Question: When I returned to my job last week from my annual three-week vacation, I stopped in the breakroom for coffee. To my surprise, my colleagues’ conversations didn’t center on the election like they had before I left. Instead, my coworkers buzzed with excitement about “goals” and “results.” I asked one coworker, “What’s up?” and he told me he and … [Read more...] about The October Theory: An Easy Strategy for Improving Your Work Life
CODING ALERT: Watch for ICD-10-CM and CPT Changes for 2025
For 2025, medical coding changes in ICD-10-CM and CPT codes are set to reflect more precise diagnostic details and updated guidelines across various medical conditions. Some of the key updates include: Mental Health: New ICD-10-CM codes will expand the classification of eating disorders, differentiating severity levels (mild, moderate, severe) and adding specific … [Read more...] about CODING ALERT: Watch for ICD-10-CM and CPT Changes for 2025
CHECKLIST: 7 November Tasks for a Smooth Medical Office Finish
As the end of the year looms, November is a perfect month to dive into key tasks that will set your medical office up for a productive finish and an even better start to next year. With the holidays around the corner, it's all about checking off high-impact items before things get even busier. Here are some essential areas to tackle this month. 1. Year-End Financial … [Read more...] about CHECKLIST: 7 November Tasks for a Smooth Medical Office Finish
Winning at Office Politics
By Lynne Curry Question: I lost another opportunity this week, one on which I had my heart set. It involved working on a strategic team with individuals pulled from all areas of the company to develop key initiatives for our future. I had so many ideas of exciting directions we could take that I’m heartsick I lost out. The woman that corporate management selected from … [Read more...] about Winning at Office Politics
Get ready for employment law updates coming in 2025
Coming up in 2025, there are several important employment law changes that managers in the U.S. should be aware of: Overtime Pay Threshold Increase: The Department of Labor (DOL) is expected to increase the salary threshold for overtime pay eligibility. Starting in early 2025, employees earning under $58,656 per year (up from $35,568) may become eligible for overtime pay … [Read more...] about Get ready for employment law updates coming in 2025
‘Well that was awkward!’
As an office manager, you’re bound to encounter some awkward situations that require a delicate touch. Navigating these moments effectively can help maintain a positive office atmosphere and demonstrate your leadership skills. Here are some common awkward scenarios and how to handle them with grace: 1. Dealing with Personal Hygiene Issues Addressing an … [Read more...] about ‘Well that was awkward!’
Patient Experience Checklist
Here's a Patient Experience Checklist tailored for a medical office manager to ensure a positive patient experience: Welcoming Patients Greet patients promptly and courteously as they arrive. Ensure front desk staff maintains a friendly and professional demeanor. Provide any necessary forms or information efficiently. Waiting Area Management Confirm … [Read more...] about Patient Experience Checklist
HR question: Political gear at work
By Lynne Curry Question: Our problems started in September. Four guys in the warehouse started wearing Camo “Make American Great Again” hats. Two weeks later, they installed in a handmade sign inside the warehouse door that said, “This is Trump Country.” It didn’t bother anyone, or so we thought. But apparently it did. Ten days later, two women in the accounting office … [Read more...] about HR question: Political gear at work
How to add an insurance specialist to your team
Having a skilled insurance specialist on your team is essential for maintaining smooth financial operations and ensuring patient satisfaction. This role serves as a vital link between your practice, insurance companies, and patients. From verifying patient coverage to submitting claims and resolving billing disputes, an insurance specialist helps reduce financial stress for … [Read more...] about How to add an insurance specialist to your team