The New Year is here, and while many practices start with ambitious goals, the reality is that time and resources can quickly derail even the best intentions. Instead of setting lofty resolutions, focus on actionable steps to create lasting momentum. Here are easy ways your medical practice can improve financial management, security, staff efficiency, and patient satisfaction without overwhelming your team.
1. Financial/Billing Improvements
Start Small with an Audit:
- Hire a professional for a quick coding audit. A small investment now can uncover issues that might lead to significant financial gains later.
- DIY Billing Audit: Review a recent billing cycle for a couple of hours. Identify errors or inconsistencies to improve your process.
Measure Something—Anything:
Don’t overcomplicate metrics. Pick one area, such as claims denial rates or patient payment turnaround times, and track it for six months. Small insights can lead to big improvements.
2. Strengthen Security Measures
Conduct a Security Risk Assessment:
Invest in a third-party review of your systems. Knowing your vulnerabilities—and fixing them—will provide peace of mind and potentially save you from costly breaches.
Train Your Team:
Most breaches occur due to human error. Implement quarterly training sessions and consider using ongoing phishing simulations to keep your team alert.
3. Improve Staff Efficiency and Retention
Streamline Workflows:
Map out one workflow in your office. Are there bottlenecks or redundancies? Collaborate with your team to make it more efficient.
Develop Your Staff:
Retention is better than recruitment. Invest in training, create growth opportunities, and ensure staff feel valued.
Evaluate Your Team:
Are the right people in the right roles? Conduct a review of your team’s skills and responsibilities to ensure optimal performance.
4. Enhance the Patient Experience
Simplify Patient Statements:
Review a small sample of your patient statements. Are they clear and understandable? If you wouldn’t pay it, why should your patients?
5. Explore AI Solutions
AI doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with one process, like creating patient communication templates, summarizing contracts, or analyzing data. A small AI application can save time and improve outcomes.
Conclusion:
The key to sustainable growth is momentum, starting with small, manageable steps. Choose one or two of these resolutions to implement this month. Over time, these incremental improvements will yield significant results for your practice.
Ready to make 2025 your best year yet? Applied Medical Systems specializes in outsourced medical billing, coding, and practice management solutions tailored to your needs. Our team supports you if you need help with a coding audit, staff training, or streamlining your processes. Contact us today to learn how we can help your practice thrive this year and beyond!
