However, small practices can still succeed if they utilize essential resources. American Academy of Family Physicians Board Chair Robert Wergin, MD, gives insight into how small practices can thrive in the wake of consolidation, according to an AAFP post.
Here are four things to know:
1. While small practices may not have the time or money to meet data requirements, they have the advantage of forming personal relationships with patients. Patient satisfaction scores are increasingly important as healthcare transitions to value-based care.
2. Dr. Wergin advises small practices to form “virtual groups.” CMS’ Transforming Clinical Practice Initiative created a state-by-state peer learning network that works to help small practices improve care quality with other fellow small practices.
3. Dr. Wergin, who is employed by a 20-bed critical-access hospital, is a member of South East Rural Physicians Association. The association is comprised of nearly 100 physicians who meet regularly to discuss ways to provide quality care with finite resources.
4. He advises physicians to make a decision on where to practice based on how they want to work. Dr. Wergin said, “I think the important issue for small practices is that you have options and you will find that you are not alone. You can stay in a small practice, and there is support to do it.”
More healthcare news:
Nobilis acquires Texas ASC; expands into Houston market; Tenet’s market cap totals $2.45B & more — 5 key notes on ASC companies
Explosions in NY, NJ; stabbings in MN: 8 things to know about this weekend’s violence
Is Chicago ready for a WS appearance? Cubs are 1st to clinch division title in 2016 — 6 highlights
