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
Managing patients
What Every Office Manager Needs to Know About HIPAA Today
HIPAA compliance isn’t just a legal requirement — it’s a cornerstone of patient trust and professional integrity. In today’s healthcare environment, patients expect their information to be handled with care, and regulators expect your practice to meet strict standards for privacy and security. That’s where this guide comes in. Whether you’re new to HIPAA or just need a … [Read more...] about What Every Office Manager Needs to Know About HIPAA Today
Using patient portals to enhance communication and engagement
In today’s digital age, enhancing communication and engagement with your patients is more important than ever. One of the most effective tools at your disposal is the patient portal. This online platform can transform how you interact with patients, making communication more efficient and fostering a deeper level of engagement. Let’s explore how you can utilize patient portals … [Read more...] about Using patient portals to enhance communication and engagement
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
7 terms to include in your patient debt collection agency services contract
Outsourcing patient collections enables medical practices to generate needed cash flow and concentrate on clinical operations. That, at least, is the theory. But the strategy does not always work. One of the key factors of success is the actual services contract the medical practice signs with the agency. Many a medical practice has seen the anticipated benefits of outsourcing … [Read more...] about 7 terms to include in your patient debt collection agency services contract
Slips, Trips, and Falls in Healthcare: What You Can Do to Keep Your Medical Office Safe
In a busy medical office, slips, trips, and falls can happen in the blink of an eye—but their impact can be long-lasting, both personally and professionally. As a medical office manager, safety is one of your top responsibilities, and preventing these types of injuries is a big part of that. It’s not just about compliance—it’s about protecting your team, your patients, and your … [Read more...] about Slips, Trips, and Falls in Healthcare: What You Can Do to Keep Your Medical Office Safe
Click, Connect, Care: How to Manage Telehealth
Telehealth isn’t just a pandemic-era solution—it’s here to stay. Patients love the convenience, providers appreciate the flexibility, and practices that manage it well are seeing long-term benefits. But behind every smooth virtual visit is a well-organized office manager making sure the right systems, schedules, and support are in place. If you're responsible for keeping … [Read more...] about Click, Connect, Care: How to Manage Telehealth
Why and How to Provide Translators for Patients
One critical area that can often be overlooked in a medical office is the need for translation services. For many patients with limited English proficiency (LEP), the ability to communicate effectively with healthcare providers can be a matter of safety, health, and trust. Providing accessible language services is not just a nice-to-have — it’s essential for your practice’s … [Read more...] about Why and How to Provide Translators for Patients
Ensuring Accessibility for All at Your Medical Office
As a medical office manager, ensuring that your practice is accessible to all patients, regardless of their physical abilities, language skills, or other needs, is not only a legal requirement but also a moral and ethical responsibility. Accessibility means creating an environment where every patient feels welcome and can easily navigate your office, receive the care they need, … [Read more...] about Ensuring Accessibility for All at Your Medical Office