Practice Management

“Why?” That is the question that parents of toddlers hear countless times a day. It is a word that may elicit an internal—or perhaps an external—groan because it is the start of a litany of “whys” that will not cease until a satisfactory answer is given. What causes toddlers to ask “why?” so frequently? According to a study conducted at the University of Michigan, it is because they really do want an explanation. Read Article ›

As we continue to navigate through today’s evolving healthcare landscape, the need for thoughtful innovation is at an all-time high. As oncology administrators, we are responsible for leading our teams through change, which requires engagement, buy in, and input from our front-line workers. One strategy for navigating meaningful change, which has been gaining momentum in many industries, is the process of design thinking. Although the term “design” may create the impression that this process would be best served in engineering or product design, it adds a sense of creation and innovation that is critical to the process. Read Article ›

In the following interview, Ms Hayes discusses Epic Care’s commitment to excellence and its positive experience with the CMOM-HEM/ONC program. Read Article ›

Medical practices across the United States have undergone major transformations in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and administrators alike have been required to adapt rapidly to shifting protocols and unprecedented demands. These healthcare workers are facing multiple stressors, serious safety concerns, and economic upheavals, which put them at risk for anxiety, depression, and burnout as they work tirelessly to provide services for their patients. Leaders play an important role in supporting their employees during these particularly difficult times. Read Article ›

When I was a medical student, one of the attending physicians told me a story about a 25-year veteran nurse known as “Nurse Patty,” who he had worked with when he was a resident. Although most of the employees at the hospital were outstanding, this particular nurse had a reputation for making decisions that were not always medically sound. All of the residents at the hospital knew that when Nurse Patty was on duty, they needed to keep a careful eye on their patients. However, because this nurse had been employed at the hospital for many years, no one—including her—thought she could ever be fired. Read Article ›

Helping patients with cancer achieve optimal health status can present special challenges when their basic needs such as food security, housing, and transportation are not being met. If patients are experiencing such social influencers to health, they will often forgo healthcare or become noncompliant with treatment due to lack of resources. Implementing a community health worker program to complement clinical care can help provide compassionate care for the most vulnerable patients and lead to improved outcomes. Read Article ›

When it comes to your company, there is no greater asset than a healthy team culture. As it has been said many times, “Team culture eats company strategy for breakfast.” You can have the best strategy, the strongest marketing, and the greatest profitability. However, if you do not also have a healthy team culture, your long-term success is doomed to failure. Read Article ›

On August 17, 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) published its proposed plans for payment and reporting changes for 2021. In contrast to previous years on record, the final rule is likely to be released in early December instead of early November. This means that there may be less than 30 days to prepare and implement changes prior to January 1, 2021. Read Article ›

Who determines how successful we are at providing high-quality cancer care? It is our patients and their caregivers, as well as our communities. Most healthcare organizations have specific teams and tools designated to focus on improving the patient experience. They know that patient satisfaction is vital, and invest in teaching this to their leaders and holding them accountable to achieve the best possible satisfaction scores. As we continue to work toward value-based payer models, it is imperative that we emphasize the importance of service excellence. Read Article ›

As oncology management professionals, the sentiment is never lost that people are our strongest asset. The proficiency of a practice’s front-line staff can affect the efficacy of treatment, support the initiatives of professional organizations, and greatly influence the mood and mindset of patients. Therefore, as we continue to navigate through the ever-changing healthcare environment, it is critical to take the necessary steps to support those who are critical to the care of our patients. Read Article ›