From power outages to rainstorms, earthquakes to wildfires, the unexpected can happen. That's why your office needs a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan is essential. Here are key steps in establishing a plan. 1. Assess Vulnerabilities: Begin by identifying potential risks that could impact your office, such as natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, hurricanes), … [Read more...] about Be ready for disaster with an emergency preparedness plan
Managing patients
How to see your last patient on time
Getting the doctor to see the first patient of the day on schedule is no great feat. Seeing the last patient of the day on time can be a struggle. Here are some ways to make that happen: Implement an Effective Scheduling System A well-structured scheduling system is the foundation for keeping appointments on track. Consider using an electronic health record (EHR) or practice … [Read more...] about How to see your last patient on time
18 ways your medical office can run afoul of laws and regulations
Running a medical office comes the responsibility for ensuring compliance with various laws and regulations. Failure to meet compliance requirements can lead to legal, financial, and reputational troubles. Here are some—but by no means all—the ways your medical office can run into compliance trouble: HIPAA Violations: Failure to protect patient health information and maintain … [Read more...] about 18 ways your medical office can run afoul of laws and regulations
You don’t have to have all the answers: Use your team to solve problems
In the dynamic and ever-evolving healthcare landscape, medical offices face an array of challenges that demand efficient and innovative solutions. As the manager of a medical office, one of your most valuable assets is your team. By fostering a collaborative environment and leveraging the diverse skills and knowledge of your staff, you can effectively address specific issues … [Read more...] about You don’t have to have all the answers: Use your team to solve problems
5 strategies for building a strong referral network
One of your crucial responsibilities is to establish and maintain strong referral relationships with other healthcare providers. These relationships are vital for the success and growth of your practice, as they can bring in new patients and foster collaborative care. Here are some strategies to enhance referral relationships, enabling you to build a strong network and provide … [Read more...] about 5 strategies for building a strong referral network
Checklist: Is the office ready for your summer vacation?
Your long-awaited and well-deserved summer vacation is approaching. Is your staff prepared to run the office smoothly in your absence? Use this list to see if you have the bases covered. Vacation Preparation Checklist for Busy Medical Office Managers Delegate Responsibilities: Identify competent staff members to handle key tasks during your absence. Assign … [Read more...] about Checklist: Is the office ready for your summer vacation?
10 ways to get patients to pay up
Effective patient payment collection is crucial for the financial stability and success of a medical office. However, it can be a challenging task to navigate the complexities of medical billing and ensure timely payments. To enhance your medical office's patient payment collections, it is important to implement strategies that streamline the billing process, improve patient … [Read more...] about 10 ways to get patients to pay up
6 common problems in medical offices, and suggested solutions
Got a problem with your office? Chances are it's one of a half-dozen common problems for medical offices. Here are the problems and suggested solutions. 1 Streamlining Appointment Scheduling Problem: Patients often experience long wait times and confusion during the appointment scheduling process. Solution: Implement an online appointment scheduling system that allows … [Read more...] about 6 common problems in medical offices, and suggested solutions
Creating an inclusive and safe space for the LGBTQ+ community in a medical office
As a medical office manager, you play a pivotal role in ensuring that your healthcare facility is a safe and welcoming space for all individuals. It is important to prioritize inclusivity, especially for members of the LGBTQ+ community, including staff, patients, their families, vendors, and visitors. By establishing a safe space, you not only provide quality healthcare but … [Read more...] about Creating an inclusive and safe space for the LGBTQ+ community in a medical office
CMS posts info on the No Surprises Act for patients
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) made available new consumer-friendly web pages for people with easy-to-read information regarding the consumer protections in the No Surprises Act. The No Surprises Act protects people covered under group and individual health plans from receiving surprise medical bills when they receive most emergency services, … [Read more...] about CMS posts info on the No Surprises Act for patients