Developing and Implementing an ASC Incentive Program: Q&A With Sarah Martin of Meridian Surgical Partners

Sarah Martin is regional vice president of operations for Meridian Surgical Partners.

Q: Our ASC's physicians and board of directors would like to create a bonus/incentive program at the center. What do you think makes up a good incentive program?

Sarah Martin: A good incentive program is tied to the financial and quality aspects of
the business and specific thresholds must be met in order for the staff to receive the bonus. For example, all staff can assist the facility to meet supply and salary goals for the month, based on flexing their hours worked and not opening unnecessary supplies, as well as helping to identify other sources for supplies. All staff from business office to clinical can assist in patient and physician satisfaction. Business office staff can seek to hit A/R day and collection goals in order to get bonused.

To me the key is to make the bonus an earned "meeting or exceeding expectations" opportunity and not something that becomes an expectation. Then it is no longer a bonus, but just part of their salary.

Learn more about Meridian Surgical Partners.

Read more practical guidance from Sarah Martin:

- How Quality Reporting and Information Technology Requirements Will Impact ASCs

- 3 Key Indicators a Physician Might Not be a Good Fit for an ASC

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