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Home » Working with physicians
WORKING WITH DOCTORS

Know the signs and risk factors for physician suicide

5:00 pm by

This week of Sept. 10 through Sept. 16 is National Suicide Prevention Week, and Sunday, Sep. 17, is National Physician Suicide Awareness Day. Physicians are at a higher risk of suicide and suicidal ideation than the general population, says the American Medical Association. Suicidal ideation has been associated with high workload volume  and medical errors. Although previous research linked physician burnout to depression and suicide, a recent investigation suggests that burnout and depression are separate experiences, with distinct consequences for physicians and their patients. Physicians who experience suicidal ideation have been shown to be less likely to seek the help they need. Take steps to prevent physician suicide Download the report for tips to address physician distress, the well-being of colleagues and the risk of suicidal ideation. Factors associated with… . . . read more.

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Make a good impression with your email closing

10:21 am by

How you end a business email can leave a lasting impression on the recipient. The right closing can make your email feel more professional and polished, while a poor closing can detract from the message you’re trying to convey. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and best practices for concluding your business emails in a way that leaves a positive impression on your recipients. Use a Professional Closing Your email closing should reflect the tone of your message and the relationship you have with the recipient. If you are writing a formal email, use a professional closing such as “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Kind regards.” These closings are neutral and formal, and they convey professionalism and respect. Match the Tone of the Message If you are writing a more… . . . read more.

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TECHNOLOGY

Integrating telemedicine into your practice

12:55 pm by

The healthcare landscape is evolving, and telemedicine has emerged as a transformative tool for medical practices to expand their reach, improve patient access, and provide high-quality care remotely. Integrating telemedicine services into your practice requires careful planning and execution, considering aspects like technology, staff training, patient communication, and regulatory compliance. 1. Understanding telemedicine and its benefits Telemedicine involves using technology to provide medical services remotely, connecting healthcare providers with patients virtually. Some of the benefits include: Improved access: Telemedicine breaks down geographical barriers, enabling patients to receive care without the constraints of distance. Convenience: Patients can consult with healthcare professionals from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for travel and waiting room times. Efficiency: Telemedicine can streamline appointment scheduling, reduce administrative overhead, and optimize resource utilization. 2. Selecting… . . . read more.

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WORKING WITH PATIENTS

Better patient communication for better care and engagement

12:29 pm by

Effective patient communication is at the heart of a successful medical practice. It’s not just about delivering medical care; it’s also about creating a meaningful and lasting relationship with your patients. In today’s digital age, the landscape of communication has expanded, offering numerous channels to connect with patients. From appointment reminders to follow-up care instructions and handling patient inquiries, these communication strategies can enhance patient satisfaction and overall practice success. 1. Appointment Reminders: Keeping Patients on Track Missed appointments can lead to gaps in care and disrupt the scheduling flow of your practice. Utilizing appointment reminders helps to reduce no-show rates and keep patients engaged. Here are some tips to enhance your appointment reminder strategy: Multi-Channel Reminders: Send reminders via multiple channels, including text messages, emails, and even automated voice… . . . read more.

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YOUR CAREER

Getting your head back in the game after summer vacation

8:28 pm by

It can be hard to come back to the office after the fun and relaxation of summer vacation. Consider these tips for a smooth transition and an efficient workflow. Reconnect with the Healthcare Team: Upon your return, schedule meetings with key healthcare professionals and staff members. Discuss any recent changes, updates, or challenges that occurred during your absence. Understanding the current status of ongoing projects and addressing any concerns will help you get back up to speed. Prioritize Patient Care and Appointments: The heart of a medical office is patient care. Begin by reviewing upcoming patient appointments, follow-ups, and medical procedures. Ensure that the schedule is well-organized, and all necessary preparations have been made to provide optimal patient experiences. Address Administrative Tasks: Medical office managers handle a wide range of… . . . read more.

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WORKING WITH PATIENTS

How to see your last patient on time

10:54 am by

Getting the doctor to see the first patient of the day on schedule is no great feat. Seeing the last patient of the day on time can be a struggle. Here are some ways to make that happen: Implement an Effective Scheduling System A well-structured scheduling system is the foundation for keeping appointments on track. Consider using an electronic health record (EHR) or practice management software that allows you to manage appointments efficiently. The system should offer features such as real-time updates, automated reminders, and the ability to reschedule or cancel appointments easily. Set Realistic Time Intervals for Appointments Avoid overbooking or underestimating the time needed for appointments. Analyze historical data to identify average appointment durations for different types of visits. Ensure that sufficient time is allocated for each patient,… . . . read more.

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COMPLIANCE

18 ways your medical office can run afoul of laws and regulations

10:51 am by

Running a medical office comes the responsibility for ensuring compliance with various laws and regulations. Failure to meet compliance requirements can lead to legal, financial, and reputational troubles. Here are some—but by no means all—the ways your medical office can run into compliance trouble: HIPAA Violations: Failure to protect patient health information and maintain patient confidentiality as mandated by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Inadequate Informed Consent: Not obtaining proper informed consent from patients before conducting procedures or treatments, which is essential for respecting patient autonomy. Improper Billing and Coding: Incorrectly coding medical procedures or submitting fraudulent claims to insurance companies, leading to potential legal and financial consequences. Antikickback Statute Violations: Engaging in inappropriate financial arrangements or incentives that could influence referrals or medical decisions, violating the… . . . read more.

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LEADERSHIP

You don’t have to have all the answers: Use your team to solve problems

5:18 pm by

In the dynamic and ever-evolving healthcare landscape, medical offices face an array of challenges that demand efficient and innovative solutions. As the manager of a medical office, one of your most valuable assets is your team. By fostering a collaborative environment and leveraging the diverse skills and knowledge of your staff, you can effectively address specific issues unique to your medical office. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using the team to solve problems and offer practical strategies for maximizing your team’s potential. The Power of Team Collaboration: Collective Expertise: Your medical office team comprises individuals with different areas of expertise, ranging from administrative staff to medical professionals. By encouraging open communication and idea-sharing, you can tap into this collective knowledge to address various issues effectively. Holistic… . . . read more.

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WORK STRESS

Feeling burned out? You and 40% of professionals

7:09 pm by

Burnout is a problem that just won’t go away, new research from global talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half shows. In a survey of 1,132 professionals, 36 per cent of respondents reported being more burned out now than a year ago. Workers said the most common factors contributing to burnout today are: Heavy workloads (54 per cent) Lack of communication and support from management (29 per cent) Toxic organizational culture (26 per cent) Those with the highest burnout levels include: Gen Z and millennials Employees who have been with their company for 2-4 years Working parents “Burnout is a serious issue that needs to be combatted with ongoing efforts”, said David King, Senior Managing Director, Robert Half, Canada and South America. “Though many companies have made strides in supporting employee well-being,… . . . read more.

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WORKING WITH PATIENTS

Creating an inclusive and safe space for the LGBTQ+ community in a medical office

8:37 pm by

As a medical office manager, you play a pivotal role in ensuring that your healthcare facility is a safe and welcoming space for all individuals. It is important to prioritize inclusivity, especially for members of the LGBTQ+ community, including staff, patients, their families, vendors, and visitors. By establishing a safe space, you not only provide quality healthcare but also promote trust, comfort, and well-being. Why Create a Safe Space? Ethical and Patient-Centered Care: As a healthcare provider, your primary focus is to deliver patient-centered care. By creating a safe space, you demonstrate your commitment to providing compassionate and inclusive care to all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Health Equity and Reduced Disparities: Members of the LGBTQ+ community often face healthcare disparities and discrimination. By establishing an… . . . read more.

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