As discussions around workplace flexibility continue to grow, the idea of a four-day workweek has gained significant attention in the United States. From pilot programs in the private sector to proposed legislation, such as the Thirty-Two Hour Workweek Act introduced in 2024, the potential shift to a shorter workweek is becoming more than just a trending topic. For medical … [Read more...] about Exploring the Four-Day Workweek: A Map for Medical Office Managers
Compliance
5 strategies for safeguarding patient confidentiality
In the healthcare industry, protecting patient confidentiality and safeguarding sensitive medical information are paramount responsibilities. As a medical office manager, fostering a robust workplace security culture is essential to ensure compliance with regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and to maintain the trust and confidence of … [Read more...] about 5 strategies for safeguarding patient confidentiality
Strategies to stay updated with healthcare regulations
One of your paramount responsibilities is ensuring that your practice adheres to the myriad of healthcare regulations that govern the industry. Compliance isn't just a legal obligation; it's a cornerstone of patient safety, operational efficiency, and the overall credibility of your practice. Here's why staying updated with healthcare regulations is crucial and how you can … [Read more...] about Strategies to stay updated with healthcare regulations
HIPAA compliance quiz for medical office employees
Instructions: This quiz is designed to test your knowledge of HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) requirements and regulations. Please select the best answer for each question. Choose only one answer unless otherwise specified. Good luck! Question 1: What does HIPAA stand for? a) Health Insurance Policy and Administration Act b) Health Information … [Read more...] about HIPAA compliance quiz for medical office employees
How to navigate insurance contracts
Reviewing and negotiating insurance contracts and ensuring compliance with regulations are indispensable tasks for medical office managers. These efforts not only impact the financial stability of the practice but also contribute to the quality of patient care. By approaching these strategically, medical office managers can secure favorable terms, optimize provider networks, … [Read more...] about How to navigate insurance contracts
Your interview notes could get you in trouble
By Dr. Steve M. Cohen bio Although workforce disasters usually make the headlines, there are a number of "basic" human resource tasks that should not be discounted. One is the job candidate interview. Theoretically, interviews should not be a problem. They're a common occurrence, with no possible traps, right? After all, the candidate just wants the job and you are … [Read more...] about Your interview notes could get you in trouble
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
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 handle the departure of summer temps
As summer comes to an end, so does the tenure of many summer temps who have been assisting in your medical office. While their contributions may have been temporary, ensuring a smooth transition as they depart is essential for maintaining the efficiency and continuity of your practice. Here’s how you can effectively handle the departure of summer temps. 1. Conduct an Exit … [Read more...] about How to handle the departure of summer temps
HIPAA compliance checklist
Having a complete HIPAA compliance program is important to your organization. Run through this HIPAA compliance checklist to see if you have your foundation of HIPAA compliance in place and easily retrievable. HIPAA Policies and Procedures HIPAA privacy policies, procedures, and forms HIPAA security policies, procedures, and forms HIPAA Breach Notification policy and … [Read more...] about HIPAA compliance checklist