BOSS Business of Surgery Series

In this episode,  sleep physician Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown, author of 'Beyond Tired: A Sleep Physician's Guide to Solving Your Child's Sleep Problems'  discusses the impact of children on sleep patterns, the difference between sleep deprivation and insomnia, and shares practical tips for improving sleep quality.

Dr. Afolabi-Brown highlights the importance of self-care, the role of physical activity, and dietary choices in achieving restful sleep. They also address common sleep disorders like sleep apnea and offer advice for new mothers and busy professionals. Listeners are encouraged to pay attention to sleep habits and seek professional help for persistent sleep issues.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:46 Meet Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown

01:29 The Importance of Self-Care for Parents

02:34 Dr. Brown's Journey to Sleep Medicine

04:11 Understanding Sleep Deprivation vs. Insomnia

06:19 Common Sleep Disorders and Statistics

09:04 Steps to Improve Sleep Quality

12:27 The Role of Sleep Studies

18:14 Postpartum Sleep Strategies

26:24 Sleep Issues in Different Life Stages

32:36 Conclusion and Where to Find More Resources

https://www.therestfulsleepplace.com/about

 

Summary

This transcript is a conversation between Dr. Amy Vertrees, a general surgeon, and Carrie Glass, her office manager. They discuss the crucial role of an office manager in ensuring smooth operations, managing staff, handling patient interactions, and navigating various administrative tasks. Carrie shares her background and how she transitioned into the office manager role after gaining diverse experience in the medical field. They delve into the challenges of scheduling patients, managing late arrivals, collecting copays, and dealing with difficult situations. Keri emphasizes the importance of documentation, coding, and proper billing procedures to ensure timely reimbursements from insurance companies. They also discuss strategies for maintaining staff morale, addressing performance issues, and enforcing boundaries. Throughout the conversation, Keri's expertise and Dr. Vertrees' appreciation for her contributions are evident, highlighting the significance of a strong office manager in a successful medical practice.

Chapters

Introduction and Background

Dr. Vertrees introduces Carrie Glass, her office manager, and highlights the importance of understanding the office manager's role. Carrie shares her background, starting in the medical field at a young age and gaining diverse experience in various roles before becoming an office manager.

Managing Patient Interactions

Carrie discusses her approach to managing patient interactions, including scheduling appointments, handling late arrivals with compassion, and explaining policies like copay collection. She emphasizes the importance of being a mediator between patients and providers, ensuring smooth communication and understanding.

Staff Management and Morale

Carrie shares her strategies for managing staff, addressing performance issues, and maintaining morale. She highlights the importance of open communication, being a team player, and creating a positive work environment through small gestures like buying lunch or allowing early departures on slow days.

Documentation and Coding

The conversation shifts to the importance of proper documentation and coding for successful billing and reimbursement. Carrie explains the pitfalls of incorrect coding, the need for accurate documentation, and the challenges of working with insurance companies' requirements.

Revenue Cycle and Reimbursement

Carrie and Dr. Vertrees discuss the revenue cycle, from scheduling and pre-authorization to coding, billing, and collecting payments. They highlight the importance of each step and the potential consequences of missing any part of the process, emphasizing the need for collaboration between providers and office staff.

Relationship and Collaboration

Throughout the conversation, the strong relationship and collaboration between Dr. Vertrees and Carrie are evident. They discuss the importance of mutual support, understanding each other's roles, and working together to overcome challenges and achieve success in the medical practice.

Action Items

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Summary

This podcast episode discusses strategies for making the most out of attending medical conferences as a surgeon. The host shares personal experiences and insights on preparing for conferences, managing thoughts and emotions, networking effectively, reflecting on career goals, and following up after the event. Key points include setting intentions beforehand, being mindful of self-talk, making meaningful connections, allowing for flexibility in plans, and practicing self-compassion throughout the experience.

Chapters

Introduction and Anticipation

The host introduces the topic of attending conferences and the mixed feelings of excitement and dread that often accompany them. She emphasizes the value of anticipating the event and enjoying the experience before, during, and after. Preparing for presentations and packing in advance can help reduce stress and allow for a more positive mindset.

Managing Thoughts and Emotions

The host acknowledges the various thoughts and emotions that can arise during conferences, such as self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and feelings of inadequacy. She encourages recognizing these as choices and practicing self-compassion. Strategies like setting deadlines, being present, and listening to one's body are recommended.

Networking and Connecting

Networking and making meaningful connections are highlighted as essential aspects of conferences. The host suggests preparing an elevator pitch, being open to new contacts, and following up after the event. Social media can also be a valuable tool for extending connections and promoting one's work.

Reflection and Career Goals

The host emphasizes the importance of reflecting on career goals and direction during and after conferences. Feelings of inspiration, intimidation, or discouragement can provide valuable feedback on desired growth areas. Gratitude and self-compassion are encouraged throughout the process.

Post-Conference Follow-Up

After the conference, the host recommends recording lessons learned, reviewing materials, completing CME requirements, submitting expenses for reimbursement, and scheduling a buffer day for reflection and recalibration. Proper follow-up can help maximize the benefits of attending the conference.

Action Items

Summary

The article is an interview with Dr. Laura Sutton, a family practice physician and author of the book 'The Purposeful M.D.: Creating the Life You Love Without Guilt'. The discussion revolves around her motivation for writing the book, the challenges physicians face in managing their time effectively, and the strategies she offers to help readers find more time and energy in their lives. Dr. Sutton shares insights from her coaching experience, emphasizing the importance of setting realistic goals, reframing expectations, and asking for help. The book aims to guide readers through a transformative journey, enabling them to create intentional and fulfilling lives while strengthening relationships and improving overall well-being.

Chapters

Dr. Sutton's Motivation for Writing the Book

Initially, Dr. Sutton doubted her ability to write a book, considering herself a physician rather than a writer. However, after receiving positive feedback on her blog posts and articles, she realized her enjoyment in writing and its potential to help others. This realization, coupled with encouragement from others, motivated her to embark on the journey of writing 'The Purposeful M.D.'.

Time Management Challenges for Physicians

Physicians face significant challenges in managing their time effectively. Dr. Sutton explains that during their training, physicians are conditioned to say 'yes' to every request, fearing negative consequences like failing a rotation or losing opportunities. This ingrained habit of prioritizing others' needs over their own makes it difficult for physicians to set boundaries and say 'no' later in their careers, leading to overwhelming demands and a lack of time for personal pursuits.

Strategies for Finding More Time and Energy

The book offers strategies to help readers find more time and energy in their lives. Dr. Sutton emphasizes the importance of setting specific and realistic goals, reframing expectations, and being honest with oneself about what is achievable. She encourages readers to journal and take action on the concepts learned, as well as to seek support from others. Additionally, Dr. Sutton highlights the benefits of automating tasks and making things easier for oneself, rather than adhering to ideals that may not align with one's current circumstances.

The Transformed Life After Reading the Book

After reading the book, readers can expect to experience freedom of time, with their time being spent intentionally across various aspects of their lives. They will have increased energy, as the book helps alleviate the mental burden of overwhelming demands and unrealistic expectations. Stronger relationships are also a potential outcome, as Dr. Sutton encourages readers to ask for help and empower those around them. Overall, the book aims to guide readers towards better physical and emotional health, enabling them to create the life they desire.

Action Items

Summary

The latest BOSS podcast discusses the importance of effective medical billing practices for private practices. Dr. Heather Signorelli, a pathologist and founder of Nat Rev MD, shares her insights and recommendations based on her experience working with over 20 practices. The key topics covered include:

Dr. Signorelli emphasizes the importance of having a high-level view of the billing process, effective communication between the practice and billing team, and establishing robust workflows and audits. She also discusses her new book 'Thrive' which outlines the top 10 areas for boosting practice revenue, as well as the medical billing course and full-service billing services offered by Nat Rev MD.

Chapters

Introduction and Background

Dr. Heather Signorelli, a pathologist and founder of Nat Rev MD, is introduced as an expert in helping private practices understand business principles. The discussion focuses on her new book 'Thrive' and the top three things private practices should be doing to optimize and improve revenue.

Importance of Eligibility Verification

Eligibility verification is identified as the top issue impacting revenue for many practices. Ensuring patient insurance eligibility is verified upfront, including capturing accurate information and following up on any failures, is crucial to prevent denials and revenue loss. Dr. Signorelli emphasizes the need for a robust eligibility process and communication between the front office and billing team.

Monitoring Billing Metrics

Tracking key billing metrics like denials and accounts receivable aging is essential for identifying areas for improvement and prioritizing focus areas. Dr. Signorelli recommends starting with these two metrics and gradually adding more over time. Monitoring metrics provides visibility into the effectiveness of the billing process and helps practices target specific issues.

Managing Accounts Receivable

Staying on top of outstanding payments owed to the practice, known as accounts receivable, is critical. Older claims become increasingly difficult to collect, so addressing them promptly is important to avoid timely filing issues and revenue leakage. Dr. Signorelli recommends monitoring accounts receivable aging reports and working closely with the billing team to resolve any issues.

Importance of Communication and Workflows

Effective communication between the practice and billing team, as well as robust workflows and audits, are emphasized as essential for a successful billing process. Dr. Signorelli stresses the need for a high-level view of the billing process, identifying operational issues, and implementing improvements. Clear processes and regular audits help ensure no claims or revenue are missed.

Resources and Services Offered by Nat Rev MD

Dr. Signorelli discusses her new book 'Thrive' which outlines the top 10 areas for boosting practice revenue, as well as the medical billing course offered by Nat Rev MD. The course provides education, policies, and procedures for front office staff and billing teams. Additionally, Nat Rev MD offers full-service medical billing and coding services for practices, handling claim submissions, denials management, and accounts receivable.

Action Items

 Find out more about the 90 Day Notice program here

Show Notes:

In this episode, we dive into a group coaching session centered around job transitions and the '90 Day Notice' program offered by Amy and Amanda. This session is packed with practical advice for professionals, especially doctors, who are contemplating or undergoing a job change.

Chapters:

Introduction and Overview

Limiting Thoughts and Negative Emotions

The '90 Day Notice' Program

Negotiation Tactics and Leverage

Leaving a Job and Setting Oneself Up for Success

Action Items:

Tune in to gain valuable insights and strategies to navigate job transitions with confidence and professionalism!

The latest BOSS podcase features Dr. Sangeetha Kolluri, a breast surgeon in Austin, Texas. She shares her journey from an employed physician dealing with billing and administrative headaches to founding her own solo breast surgery practice by navigating non-compete clauses, and advocating for better patient care.

She also used her innovation and desire to help others to create an inclusive community for breastfeeding physicians.

Dr. Kolluri’s insights on understanding the full cycle of work, billing, and advocating for change are invaluable for any physician considering a similar path. Tune in to learn how you can challenge the status quo and take control of your medical career!

https://wildflowerbreast.com

Facebook group:Inclusive Breastfeeding Doctor Group

#PhysicianAdvocacy #BreastSurgery #MedicalEntrepreneur #BreastfeedingSupport