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
Managing staff
Job Security Is Dead; Reset Your Workplace with Radical Transparency
By Lynne Curry Job security is dead for four out of every five U.S. employees. U.S. According to a December 2024 survey of 1,115 U.S. employees: 92% fear a recession in 2025. 81% worry about losing their jobs. 76% expect layoffs to rise. 63% foresee more business closures than in 2024. 57% think finding a job will be harder. 52% anticipate worsening … [Read more...] about Job Security Is Dead; Reset Your Workplace with Radical Transparency
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
Background checks: better safe than sorry
By Dr. Steve M. Cohen You might think it unnecessary for your medical office, but I consistently recommend that my clients conduct background checks on all employees they intend to hire. Some of my clients are required to conduct background checks by state or federal statutes. This is especially widespread when employees will provide services to frail or vulnerable … [Read more...] about Background checks: better safe than sorry
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
HR UPDATE: Who will win the return to office fight?
By Lynne Curry If you love working from home, and dread returning to the office, here’s the stark question you may face this year—are you willing to lose your job? This crossroads looms large for millions of workers. After tasting the benefits of remote work—zero commutes and better work-life balance—many employees feel reluctant to trade that freedom for fluorescent … [Read more...] about HR UPDATE: Who will win the return to office fight?
“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
9 Ways to Build an Environment of Continuous Learning for Your Staff
A well-trained, motivated administrative team is one of the most valuable assets in any medical office. But maintaining that level of performance takes more than a strong onboarding program—it requires a culture of continuous learning. When staff feel supported in developing new skills and staying current with industry trends, everyone benefits. Here are nine ways to encourage … [Read more...] about 9 Ways to Build an Environment of Continuous Learning for Your Staff
January To-Do List for a Busy Medical Office Manager
The start of a new year is the perfect time to set the tone for success in your medical practice. January often brings a mix of wrapping up the previous year’s tasks, setting goals, and preparing for the months ahead. To help you stay organized, here’s a comprehensive to-do list to keep your office running smoothly and efficiently as you head into the new year. 1. … [Read more...] about January To-Do List for a Busy Medical Office Manager
Manager, Brace Yourself: The January Resignation Rush Is Coming
By Lynne Curry “My job’s been a pressure cooker of rush projects, travel and late-night emails for the last two years. The final straw came on Christmas. My boss decided I’d be the one to cover any calls, as everyone else was married. After that, it wasn’t a difficult decision. I’m trading my corporate paycheck for peace of mind and evenings and weekends off. My new job has … [Read more...] about Manager, Brace Yourself: The January Resignation Rush Is Coming