1. Mission
Success starts with a mission, a total dedication to the patients and the business. Everyone who works in the facility, from ownership governance, management to business and clinical staff must share the same mission.
2. Staff
All of these ASCs’ success lies with their staff. Always hire staff that are friendly and smiling; patients in pain do not want to listen to your staff complain about the facility, staff or personal problems. All staff must be considerate and kind to patients even when it can seem nearly impossible to be kind and considerate to them. pain patients come back often. You have one opportunity (first encounter) to provide them with a positive experience and give them a sense that the staff and physicians really care about them. They will come back, they will tell their referring healthcare providers and their friends and family about their experience. Bottom line is if you want to succeed, hire the best staff you can and invest in them.
3. Education
Always provide positive feedback and continuing education for your staff. It is just as important to provide sound education to the patient and their families. Do not underestimate the family’s role in caring for a chronic pain patient.
Stick to known clinical algorithms without giving the sense of a cure.
Educate your referral sources. Offer to become a resource to them for pain management. Say thank you.
Arm yourself with education. Stay informed as to what is going on in the pain management industry. Pain societies and CMS transmittals are a great resource.
4. Payor mix
Never overlook the financial aspects of well-negotiated contracts. Know what you can offer to the plans enrollees, other participating providers and their patients. Utilize demand for these types of services, your physicians’ and ASC’s expertise, familiarity in your area, community, language, etc., in your negotiations. Above all else, know your costs.
5. Environment
Continued success means always offering prompt, courteous, compassionate and professional services that meet the needs of the market in a pleasant physical environment.
Learn more about Mowles Medical Practice Management.
