Just a few months ago, it was all systems go for Stage 3 of Meaningful Use—the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) program that awards incentives for using certified electronic health records to improve patient care—but an overhaul will effectively end the program, according to acting CMS administrator Andy Slavitt, who discussed the impending changes in his … [Read more...] about End of Meaningful Use is near, says CMS
New study finds connection between resilience and positive business outcomes
Today's employers are challenged to provide competitive benefits and employee engagement strategies that not only support the well-being of their employees, but also improve the bottom line. With resilience building and mindfulness training programs continuing to gain momentum in the workplace, meQuilibrium, recently conducted a study to measure resilience against … [Read more...] about New study finds connection between resilience and positive business outcomes
Silly problems, silly solutions boost morale at Georgia practice
For the small problems inherent in any office's staff, one manager has two easy solutions – humor and once-a-day positive notes. The humor comes in the form of silly contests to solve equally silly – though very human – problems. They're nonsensical, "but they reduce tension," says Nadine Cook, office manager for Family Price Care, a one-physician, 13 staff practice in Tifton, … [Read more...] about Silly problems, silly solutions boost morale at Georgia practice
Recharging your batteries
Editor's picks: Personal vs. professional life: setting boundaries Time and anxiety really do matter Easy ways to make your medical office healthier … [Read more...] about Recharging your batteries
Office bullies are bad, really
By Steve M. Cohen bio First it was labeled a schoolyard problem, then a big issue throughout schools and colleges. Then bullying was discovered in the workplace. First it was overbearing owners and managers. Then we discovered that it was also possible for employees to bully other employees. Don't misunderstand me; these are serious and ongoing problems. Bullying in … [Read more...] about Office bullies are bad, really
Model Policy: Conflict of interest policy for romantically involved employees
Why you need this policy: Romantically involved employees can cause personnel and legal problems for your medical office. How this policy helps you: Protect your medical office from harm that can result when employees date their coworkers. How to use this policy: Read this policy to understand how it relates to your office. Insert the name of your company. … [Read more...] about Model Policy: Conflict of interest policy for romantically involved employees
Office efficiency, profit often depend on surprising issues
By Dr. Steve M. Cohen Once upon a time, medical offices could count on such a solid, even lucrative income stream that some minor problems, even considerable costs, could be accepted. That's not been true for a long time. Increasingly complex and intrusive regulation, rising insurance costs, and an increasingly litigious environment are now accompanied by reduced and delayed … [Read more...] about Office efficiency, profit often depend on surprising issues
Learning to lead
Editor's picks: How to be a strong manager even when dealing with over-controlling physicians The plain and practical side of medical office managing Five realities of effective leadership … [Read more...] about Learning to lead
Managing Profitability in 2016 and the Challenges to Expect
Click here for the presentation slides Click here for the handout This recording will help you understand the benefit of establishing and abiding by a written billing procedure and refining your billing statement. It will discuss new technology that is available to help address Slow Pay Patient Management so you can get ahead of the challenge of collecting what is owed … [Read more...] about Managing Profitability in 2016 and the Challenges to Expect
Staff participation
Editor's picks: Specific acknowledgement, specific recognition create a happy, productive staff Effective communication leads to greater staff engagement and better company reputation Involving staff in marketing generates good ideas and sense of teamwork … [Read more...] about Staff participation