A full office makeover may not be possible, but every medical practice can make improvements to its patient waiting room. 1 Keep it clean All places of business should be clean, but arguably none more than a medical practice waiting room as it speaks to the quality of care. Take a look around. Are the windows and doors clean? Is there dust on the tables? Does the … [Read more...] about 5 quick ways to make your waiting room more welcoming
Managing patients
Good responses to bad patient reviews
It is important to address every online review—good or bad—publicly so that others reading the review will know you are responsive to patient communication and concerns. Here are some simple steps to addressing a bad review, potentially resolving the patient’s complaint and showing possible future patients how you deal with patient concerns. Keep your cool As much as we … [Read more...] about Good responses to bad patient reviews
Empathy an important workplace leadership quality
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings, thoughts, and perspectives of others. It involves not only recognizing and acknowledging the emotions of others but also demonstrating care and concern for their well-being. In the context of a workplace leader, empathy is essential for several reasons: Building Trust: Empathetic leaders are more likely to earn … [Read more...] about Empathy an important workplace leadership quality
When the news is bad: Supporting a patient through a distressing medical diagnosis
Handling a patient in distress over a medical diagnosis is one of the most delicate and emotionally challenging aspects of healthcare management. It's important to be prepared to navigate these distressing situations with empathy and professionalism. Scenario: Imagine a patient who has just received a life-altering medical diagnosis, such as cancer, during a routine … [Read more...] about When the news is bad: Supporting a patient through a distressing medical diagnosis
3 steps to success for a new medical office manager
Dear Medical Office Manager: I've just been promoted to manager of a medical office. What should I do now to ensure success? Congratulations on your promotion! Here are three steps you can take to ensure success in your new role as a medical office manager: Get to know your team: Take the time to meet and build relationships with your staff. This will help you … [Read more...] about 3 steps to success for a new medical office manager
10 steps to build your confidence as a new office manager
Starting a new role as an office manager can be an exciting yet challenging experience. It's not uncommon to feel a bit overwhelmed in the beginning, but by taking proactive steps, you can build your confidence and excel in your new position. Here are some valuable tips to help you grow in your role as an office manager: 1. Understand Your Role: Begin by thoroughly … [Read more...] about 10 steps to build your confidence as a new office manager
Could you be doing more to make your accounts receivable less?
The financial health and stability of your medical practice depends on keeping receivables low and effectively managing outstanding balances. By implementing strategic practices and fostering a patient-centric approach, you can maintain low receivables while promoting a positive patient experience. Here are some strategies to achieve this: 1. Establish Clear Financial … [Read more...] about Could you be doing more to make your accounts receivable less?
21 easy ways to boost practice profitability fast
Simple changes to billing procedures, hiring policies, purchasing, patient relations, and other daily activities can have a positive impact on your practice's bottom line. Here are 21 ways you can quickly boost practice profitability. 1. Name a reimbursement coordinator To get all the reimbursement possible, hire or appoint someone to be a reimbursement coordinator. It … [Read more...] about 21 easy ways to boost practice profitability fast
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
18 great ideas to make you a better manager
Here are 18 good ideas that can be of value to any manager. 1 Reduce the interruptions. During busy times, move the chair around so your back is to the door. People hesitate to interrupt when they can’t make immediate eye contact with the manager. Stand up when people come in and stay standing. As long as the manager is standing, the visitor won’t start up a long … [Read more...] about 18 great ideas to make you a better manager