As you approach retirement, you've probably been reflecting on your journey as a medical office manager—the challenges you've overcome, the systems you've refined, and the relationships you've built. Leaving all of that behind can be bittersweet, but one of the most important things you can do before you retire is to ensure a smooth transition for your successor. Setting them … [Read more...] about How to set up your successor for success as you retire
Working with physicians
How to curb office gossip in your medical practice
Office gossip can quickly create a toxic environment, especially in a medical practice where teamwork and trust are essential for patient care. As a medical office manager, it’s your responsibility to maintain a professional atmosphere where everyone feels respected and focused on their work. Gossip undermines that environment, breeding negativity, reducing productivity, and … [Read more...] about How to curb office gossip in your medical practice
Fail Forward: Turning Fear into Fuel for Success
By Lynne Curry Jeremiah avoided speaking up in meetings. Instead, he let others dominate team discussions. When his boss asked him to lead a department-wide update, he declined—it cost him a promotion. After landing the largest project her company had ever received, Maggie froze. When she didn’t deliver the first assignment by deadline, she lost the contract. Anna … [Read more...] about Fail Forward: Turning Fear into Fuel for Success
What to do when your doctor becomes a patient
Their role as healers makes it easy to forget physicians are subject to the same illnesses that befall other humans. They are not invincible, even though their silence about their own health might lead staff and patients to believe otherwise. Physician illness is a topic that's not often discussed, even within the physician community. When physicians do broach the subject, … [Read more...] about What to do when your doctor becomes a patient
Using ‘Ambient AI Listening’ to Reduce Administrative Burden for Physicians
You're constantly looking for ways to streamline processes and create efficiencies that benefit both your practice and your patients. One of the most promising innovations in healthcare technology today is ambient AI listening, and it’s gaining traction as a tool to help reduce the administrative burdens placed on physicians. In a world where documentation, patient records, and … [Read more...] about Using ‘Ambient AI Listening’ to Reduce Administrative Burden for Physicians
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
How to build a successful patient feedback system
A good patient feedback system is essential to enhancing the quality of care your practice provides and ensuring patient satisfaction. This system not only allows you to gather valuable insights but also demonstrates your commitment to continuous improvement and patient-centered care. Here are key steps to establish an effective patient feedback system in your medical … [Read more...] about How to build a successful patient feedback system
3 steps to set up your strategic planning process
By Nick Hernandez bio There are many different models and action steps for strategic planning. Attempting to "jump right in", however, is ill-advised. Undertaking some basic pre-work will help to ensure better success for the strategic planning process. Here are three prerequisites for strategic planning: 1. Agree on a strategic planning process You should provide … [Read more...] about 3 steps to set up your strategic planning process
“Why are you leaving us?” 5 key questions to ask staffers who resign
There's good information to be had from a staffer who's leaving. Here are a few rules to follow and a few questions to ask. Two minutes before the exit Do the interviewing just as the staffer is ready to walk out the door. That means late afternoon of the last day. The 11th-hour timing ensures that whatever negative remarks the staffer makes won't carry repercussion. … [Read more...] about “Why are you leaving us?” 5 key questions to ask staffers who resign
New Year, New Patients: Building a Strategic Marketing Plan for Your Practice
By Michele Krohn The new year is an ideal time for medical practices to evaluate and update their marketing strategies, ensuring they effectively reach patients, expand referral networks, and enhance their reputation in the healthcare community. This guide outlines essential steps to develop a comprehensive marketing plan. Conduct a SWOT Analysis A SWOT Analysis … [Read more...] about New Year, New Patients: Building a Strategic Marketing Plan for Your Practice