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5 Reasons Why Private Medical Practices Fail and What To Do About It

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Medical professional putting on a latex gloveWritten by Veronica Turner.

Running a successful medical practice offers a unique set of challenges. It’s not just about being an excellent clinician, but also about mastering the art of management and client support.

From underestimating the work involved to failing to plan for the future, there are several pitfalls that often cause private practices to fail. But with strategies like refining client satisfaction rates and carving out a unique position in the market, these hurdles can be tackled efficiently.

Why Private Medical Practices Fail and What To Do About It

In the high-stakes world of private healthcare, understanding why some medical practices falter is crucial. Let’s examine five reasons and explore strategic solutions to rectify these issues.

Doctor’s Underestimate the Work Involved

Building a business from scratch is a lot of work, but many doctors underestimate this. After all, they went through medical school, so how hard could creating a business be? Unfortunately, many doctors find out the hard way that running a private practice is incredibly difficult.

The biggest issue here is that doctors assume patients will simply come to them, especially since there’s a doctor shortage in the US. Not only are patients not guaranteed, but there’s so many more doctors to worry about. If they aren’t prepared, their private practice could fail.

How Doctors Can Be More Prepared

Take stock of everything you need to do before opening up your practice. For example, you’ll need to know where your practice will be located, if you’ll take insurance, and who your ideal clients are. This will give you a better idea of how to market to your patients and customers.

Next, consider how many clinician workers you’ll have, how much you’ll pay them, and how you’ll be able to afford bills and taxes. Finally, think of the licenses and regulations you need to follow to run your practice, including HIPAA, privacy policies, and legal documents.

 

Low Client Satisfaction is a Rampant Problem

Doctors routinely drop the ball when it comes to client satisfaction. If you look up most private practices in your area, you’ll notice a lot of low ratings. These ratings can either come from the doctor (not listening to patients), the practice (dirty office), or the reception (rude staff members).

Costs also play a part as to why private practices don’t pay attention to customer satisfaction. However, if you don’t spend money on keeping your clients, you’re going to lose them. Not only that, but there’s a possibility they’ll leave a negative review that deters future patients.

How to Improve Client Satisfaction Rates

The first thing you need to do is to follow the best patient retention strategies. You’ll need to return phone calls and emails quickly, create an easy-to-navigate website, and clean your office. Make sure you focus on client confidentiality and building an online scheduling system.

And above all else, hire good doctors. Your doctors should be able to listen to their patients and take their concerns seriously. They should have the time to sit with the patient. If your patients feel rushed or glossed over, you’ll have a hard time keeping your private practice open.

 

The Medical Practice Isn’t Unique or Informative

Doctor shortages are a massive problem, but this doesn’t mean patients will automatically sign up for your private practice. And even if they do, they won’t stay long. To actually attract clients and pull them away from your competition, you’ll have to do something unique and noteworthy.

And what if your patients can’t even find you when they look you up online? If they can’t locate your number or address or whether or not you’re accepting new patients, you’ll just frustrate and confuse your patients. Not only that, but they’ll feel like their time is being wasted.

How to Separate Yourself From the Competition

First, take a look at what other private medical practices are offering in your area. You should at least offer the services they do. Alternatively, you could be known for something. For example, if no one offers a blood lab on site, then it’s a great idea to provide this service to your patients.

Keep in mind that uniqueness won’t matter much if you don’t market your services appropriately. On your website and social media, and on traditional media, think about how you’d want your patients to remember you. Make advertisements that show what you value and how you’ll help.

 

Lack of Planning for Future Growth

All business owners need to have a present and future mindset. The present mindset is essential for preserving your reputation and keeping client satisfaction high. The future mindset is vital for attracting new clients and ensuring that you keep growing (or don’t go backward).

Without a growth mindset, it’ll be difficult for doctors to stay in the game. This is why goal setting is so important. If you don’t know where you’re going, it’ll be hard to get there. On top of this, you need to set the right goals. Aim too high or low, and you won’t reach what you set out to do.

How to Create Goals With Your Analytics

You can start by actually tracking your analytics by using tools like Google Analytics. From there, you can establish your key performance indicators or KPIs. These could include total appointments in a month, total gross income in a month, and customer satisfaction scores.

Use SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound) goals to figure out what you want to achieve. A SMART goal could be, “I want to improve my customer satisfaction score by 25% in 2 months by calling clients back within 1 hour after leaving a message.”

 

Not Being Flexible or Adaptive

One of the most frustrating things a patient could ever experience is when a doctor isn’t up-to-date with research. Some doctors, for example, still tell concussion patients to avoid all stimuli within the first 48 days of the accident when this is proven to worsen symptoms.

A doctor’s lack of knowledge can affect their relationship with the patient and potentially hurt them. And even when a lack of flexibility isn’t this serious, it can still impact growth. For example, practices need to know about new marketing strategies to be successful.

How to Change With the Times

Make it mandatory for doctors to stay up-to-date with new medical information. Doctors should be tested to see if they can communicate with patients responsibly. If a doctor under your care provides poor medical advice, it’ll affect your patients, your bottom line, and your reputation.

Consider hiring a marketing team to find different ways to connect with your customers. Plenty of private practices are using tools like TikTok to connect with younger audiences. Also, consider writing a blog to improve your organic reach. This will help you populate on Google.

 

In Conclusion…

Navigating the complexities of running a private medical practice can be challenging, but with the right mindset and strategies, you’re more than equipped to turn obstacles into opportunities.

Remember not to underestimate the work involved, keep a keen eye on client satisfaction rates, and always stay unique and adaptive to changes. With meticulous planning for future growth guided by reliable analytics, success is just around the corner, no matter where you operate.

 

Author’s Bio: Veronica Turner is a health and lifestyle writer with over 10 years of experience. She creates compelling content on nutrition, fitness, mental health, and overall wellness.

 

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Case Management Certificate program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification.

How to decide if a care home is right for your loved one

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Smiling multiracial female physiotherapist assisting senior man in walking with walker at home. Unaltered, physical therapy, healthcare, patient, retirement, recovery, support, disability concept.

Written by Laura-Jane Evans

Taking the decision to move your loved one into a care home can be really tricky. They might object to the idea, or you might feel that you’re failing in your responsibilities to them. The truth is that the right care home can improve the quality of life for your loved one, and make it easier for you, allowing you to enjoy the time you spend with them rather than filling it with caring tasks. With over 1.3 million residents in care homes in the US, it’s clear that this is a decision many people will have to make at some point.

But choosing the right care home is a crucial part of the process. Every place will offer something slightly different, so it’s important to take your time and consider the options carefully so that everyone is happy. Let’s explore some of the factors you should consider.

Take time to understand what care they need

Sometimes, taking the decision to look at care homes is just the result of deteriorating health, but in many cases, it’s triggered by a feeling of overwhelm following a fall or something similar. This can make it hard to think carefully about what care your loved one needs, and if the home you’re looking at can offer that. If you feel that you need to move your family member urgently, you’ll feel under pressure to choose a place quickly.

However, taking the time to understand the care that they need is really important. Do you need to look for a specialist care home for a certain medical condition? Will they need ad-hoc support or around-the-clock care? Are they likely to need care at night? Will they have the chance to be independent if they want to, or does every resident get treated the same?

You can write down your own answers to these questions, but also make sure to ask your loved one if possible, or any carers you already have visiting on a daily basis. You can then use this list as a criteria for narrowing down your choices.

Consider the future

As well as understanding the care your loved one needs now, you’ll also need to consider what things might look like in the future. Unfortunately, things can deteriorate rapidly, and it might be wise to choose a care home that offers different levels of care as and when needed.

For example, if your relative only needs once-per-day check-ins now, but might need them more regularly in the future, make sure that is an option. It’s highly disruptive to move someone once they’re settled at a care home – and on the other end of the scale, you don’t want to force them to have full-time care and lose their independence if they don’t need it. Independent living is particularly vital for seniors, as it gives them a sense of control and purpose, as well as supporting their memory skills.

Look at the location of any potential care homes

The location of a care home is important for two reasons: proximity to family and friends, and proximity to local services if your loved one is able to use them. Firstly, you’ll want to make sure that your relative can have plenty of visitors if they’d like them, which means choosing a place that’s either close to as many people as possible, or has good transport links to enable them to get there easily. Part of the resistance to moving into a care home sometimes stems from the fear of being isolated and lonely, so do your best to combat this from the start, so it isn’t a barrier.

Secondly, not everyone who moves into a care home needs to remain in their room or in the home 24/7. Depending on their health, they may be able to go on planned excursions to the local town or the surrounding area. Care homes that are close to towns or other attractions are more likely to offer these sorts of trips, so consider this when making your choice. This may make moving into a care home more attractive to your loved one, especially if they can’t currently manage these sorts of trips themselves.

Meet the staff team

If you’re looking at care homes, it’s understandable that you’d want to ensure that the people who are looking after your loved one are kind, well-trained and compassionate. After all, they would be taking your place when you’re not there. So, when trying to decide if a care home is right for your family member, make sure you take the time to speak with the manager of the homes you’re considering, and visit in person if possible.

Care workers need to be dependable, good communicators and trustworthy, so look out for these traits in the staff when you make your visit. If they seem unorganized, unable to answer your questions, or like they’re rushing through their tasks, the home might not be the right fit.

Speak to your loved one

If your loved one is well enough to give input into this decision, then make sure to include them. This is a big change that will impact every part of their life, so whilst you might be taking the lead in making enquiries, they need to feel like they have a chance to contribute to the discussion. No one likes to feel blindsided, so before you make any commitments, make sure that you have their input about what they would like from their new home. By doing so, you are showing them that you see them as an individual, and give them the respect they deserve.

 

Author bio: Laura-Jane Evans

Having trained as a care worker initially, Laura-Jane now works in the community to provide social events and talks for seniors from surrounding nursing homes. She believes that everyone has the right to good care.

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Case Management Certificate program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification.

10 Basics of Medical Billing: How Does the Process Work?

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

a stethoscope is on the keyboard of a computer. allocation and organization of doctors.Written by Veronica Turner

 

Medical billing is a vital cog in the healthcare machine, a process that exists at the intersection of healthcare services and financial practices. If you’re a case manager looking to master medical billing and coding, it’s crucial to acquaint yourself with its many facets and core steps.

From patient registration to debt collection, medical billing offers a unique blend of challenges and rewards. This guide will provide an overview of basic principles that drive medical billing, equipping case managers with essential knowledge to navigate this complex landscape.

 

10 Basics of Medical Billing for Case Managers

Navigating the world of medical billing can be daunting. To make things simpler, we’ve broken down the medical billing process steps into 10 easy-to-understand basics for case managers.

  1. Patient Registration

Patient registration is one of the primary steps in the medical billing process. This phase involves obtaining key details about patients, including their personal information, insurance details, and medical history. Simple missteps here can lead to delayed payments or denied claims.

It’s crucial that you get an accurate and complete data set during registration, as this impacts subsequent stages of billing and claims processing. To avoid errors and confusion later on, confirm all details with the patient or their caregiver right at the beginning.

 

  1. Insurance Verification

Insurance verification is another important step in the medical billing process as a case manager. It consists of confirming that the patient’s insurance is valid, determining the level of coverage, and understanding exactly what treatments or procedures the policy includes.

This task can be time-consuming and often requires contacting insurance companies directly, but it’s crucial to prevent misunderstandings about payment responsibilities. Ultimately, successful insurance verification ensures that healthcare providers are compensated.

 

  1. Medical Coding

Medical coding plays a significant part in the medical billing process for case managers. Essentially, it involves translating patient records into standardized codes used throughout the healthcare industry. These codes, including ICD and CPT, represent diagnoses and services.

Accuracy is paramount in this step, as incorrect or incomplete coding can lead to claim denials or delays by insurance providers. Therefore, being fluent in medical coding not only streamlines billing procedures but also ensures appropriate and timely reimbursements.

 

  1. Charge Entry

Charge entry involves assigning appropriate costs to the medical services that a patient has received. It’s critical to note for this stage that charges should match the services and procedures as per their specific codes from both treatment records and insurance policies.

Any mismatch could lead to claim denials, making it crucial to be meticulous during charge entry. After all, accurate charge entries form a crucial basis for creating spotless invoices, ensuring smooth cash flow, and maintaining a healthy financial state for healthcare providers.

 

  1. Claim Submission

Once the charges are entered accurately against the appropriate medical codes, it’s time to submit these claims to insurance providers. This procedure needs to be done promptly and without errors, using designated software that most healthcare providers have in place.

It’s important that you follow the specific guidelines of each insurance company when submitting claims. Otherwise, there could be delays or rejections. Well-organized claim submissions minimize disputes and ensure faster payments, two key factors of effective case management.

 

  1. Payment Posting

As a case manager, once a claim has been approved and paid by the insurance company, it’s your job to post these payments accurately against each patient’s account. This involves matching received amounts with claims submissions, marking each settled claim as ‘paid.’

It also includes identifying and recording any adjustments or discrepancies like underpayments or overpayments. Getting this step right is integral to maintaining accurate financial records for both healthcare providers and patients, ensuring smooth closures to individual patient episodes.

 

  1. Rejection Management

Rejection management is an area where case managers need to show their problem-solving skills. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, insurance companies might reject a claim due to various reasons, such as errors in coding or documentation or even timeline issues.

The key here is not to panic but to meticulously assess the rejection reason and take corrective actions accordingly. Replacement or corrected claims should be submitted promptly following the insurance company’s guidelines. Proper management of rejections ensures low denial rates.

 

  1. Patient Statement Generation

Patient statement generation is technically the final step in the medical billing process. As a case manager, once insurance payments have been posted, you’ll need to generate statements for patients detailing any outstanding (or possibly late) balances for which they are responsible.

These statements typically include services provided, amounts paid by their insurance, and any remaining balance due. Patients should clearly understand what they are being charged for. Providing comprehensive, easy-to-understand bill statements helps in timely collections.

 

  1. Debt Collection

Debt collection is an inevitable aspect of the medical billing process when patients fail to clear their dues. It’s important to handle this delicate task with empathy while maintaining professionalism. You may have to escalate outstanding patient balances to collections agencies.

This step often requires understanding intricate regulations around debt collection practices, especially those stipulated by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Balancing prompt recoveries with compassionate communication can avoid creating strain in your relationships.

 

  1. Report Generation and Analysis

In the world of medical billing, case managers are often tasked with report generation and analysis. This involves creating comprehensive summaries of the billing activities, including sent claims, payments received, current receivables, and rejected claims, among other data points.

These reports give valuable insights into the financial health of a healthcare provider and can identify patterns or areas for improvement. They help drive strategic decision-making for better financial management and provide proof to the IRS in case of an audit or legal dispute.

 

In Conclusion…

As you navigate this field, remember that every challenge is an opportunity to refine your skills as a case manager. By embracing these principles, you’re contributing to streamlining operations, mitigating disputes, and helping patients better understand their financial responsibilities.

Keep exploring these facets of medical billing and enhancing your skills. Stay informed about updates in healthcare finance, as proficiency in medical billing requires constant adaptation!

 

Author Bio:

Veronica Turner is a health and lifestyle writer with over 10 years of experience. She creates compelling content on nutrition, fitness, mental health, and overall wellness.

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Case Management Certificate program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification.

Revamping the Patient Journey: Top Tips for Medical Professionals

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Patient in hospital bed holding Black doctor's handWritten by Veronica Turner

 

Navigating the dynamic landscape of healthcare requires a nuanced blend of clinical competence, adaptability, and a persistent focus on patient satisfaction.

As medical professionals, your role isn’t confined to just diagnosing ailments and prescribing treatments. You’re the guiding force leading patients through their healthcare journey, making it as seamless and comfortable as possible. This process is also called the patient journey.

This article provides numerous top tips designed to help you rise to these challenges.

By adopting these strategies, from enhancing tech-savviness and promoting self-management to adopting patient-centric approaches, you can revamp the patient experience in your practice.

But first, we have to examine how the patient journey impacts the patient experience.

 

What is the Patient Experience?

Patient experience refers to interactions that the patient encounters throughout the healthcare journey. This includes interactions with nurses, doctors, healthcare staff, and facilities.

When we look at multiple aspects of the patient experience, we can assess whether patients are receiving respective, responsive, and individual care based on their needs and values. There are many ways that healthcare professionals can monitor and assess the client’s experience.

One way they’re doing this is through the use of technology and automation. For example, similar to how a peer-to-peer employee recognition platform improves your employee’s experience, healthcare apps like Practo improve the patient through doctor feedback.

 

Why Does Patient Experience Matter?

Here are a few reasons why patient experience matters:

  • Higher Patient Satisfaction: Patients who receive timely support and complete respect are more eager to follow plans from their doctors, thus increasing their satisfaction.
  • Improves Health Outcomes: when patients engage with their care team, they feel more confident about the treatment approach. Their compliance leads to better outcomes.
  • Increases Your Bottom Line: Happy patients are more likely to come back to your healthcare facility. Therefore, your bottom line will increase drastically.
  • Boosts Your Online Reputation: According to the National Research Corporation, there’s a link between a great patient experience and an improved online reputation.

When the patient journey is seamless, patient experience and satisfaction increase. However, it’s important to note that patient experience and patient satisfaction aren’t the same thing.

Patient experience is measured by the insights gained from patients, whereas patient satisfaction demonstrates to what extent their needs are fulfilled. Improving both is important to improve the health and wellness of your patients, so don’t focus on one and not the other.

How to Revamp the Patient Journey

Now that you know how patient experience is impacted by the patient journey, we can start creating one that works for your facility. Here’s how to revamp the patient journey.

 

Remove the Barriers in the Patient Journey

Transforming a patient’s healthcare journey requires removing potential barriers. Make information about appointments, procedures, and care plans easily accessible and understandable. Optimize wait times and foster an environment where patients feel heard.

Ease out complex procedures and streamline administrative tasks with technology. Incorporate regular check-ins post-treatment to ensure a continuous link of communication and trust. Every barrier you remove is a step towards personalized, dignified, and empowering care.

 

Make Efforts to Provide a Personal Touch

In healthcare, the personal touch really matters. It’s beyond just knowing a patient’s medical history. It’s about understanding their desires, fears, and lifestyle. Utilize patient interactions as an opportunity to connect on a deeper level. Do this through active listening and empathy.

Small but meaningful gestures can make a significant difference. For example, you might try remembering specific personal details they share or expressing sincere concern for their wellbeing. A personalized approach shows that you see your patients as individuals first.

 

Use Patient Engagement Software and an EHR

These modern tools facilitate interactive communication with your patients, streamline administrative tasks, and ensure a smooth continuum of care. EHRs specifically play a vital role in improving patient outcomes by creating easily accessible and organized medical histories.

Meanwhile, engagement software can send out automated reminders for appointments or medication refills. Embracing these innovative technologies will not only enhance your practice’s efficiency but will also greatly improve your patient’s healthcare experiences.

 

Offer Online Appointment Booking

Providing an online booking option is a step forward in enhancing patient convenience. This feature enables patients to schedule their visits at their convenience without the hassle of long waiting times on the phone. It becomes very useful for non-urgent medical inquiries.

By integrating this option into your practice’s website or patient portal, you ensure ease of access and keep pace with the digital age’s expectations. It also optimizes your administrative tasks and increases overall efficiency and productivity within your healthcare practice.

 

Automate what Can be Automated

Automation is key to minimizing mundane tasks and maximizing efficiency in the healthcare sector. Various administrative tasks like registration, appointment scheduling and reminding, billing, and even prescription refills can benefit from automation.

Utilizing software for these processes saves time and greatly reduces the chance of errors. This increased efficiency allows medical professionals more time to focus on patient care. It’s about working smarter, not harder, and ultimately leading to a better patient experience.

 

Gather and Utilize Data Insights

In an era of data-driven decisions, harnessing the power of data can optimize your practice. Systematically collect, analyze, and interpret patient data to gain insights into their needs and behaviors. EHRs, patient surveys, or wearable tech provide a treasure trove of such data.

Leveraged effectively, these insights can guide tailored service delivery and preventive healthcare strategies, improving patient engagement and satisfaction overall. Incorporating this approach propels your practice towards evidence-based care that is personalized yet effective.

 

Have a Patient-Centric Culture

Imbibing a patient-centric culture within your practice is crucial for revamping the patient journey. This approach prioritizes the needs, expectations, and experiences of patients above everything else. It underscores empathy, active listening, communication, and shared decision-making.

By shifting from disease-focused to patient-focused care, you emphasize treating the person as a whole rather than just addressing their symptoms. This cultural shift positively affects your practice’s operations and clinician-patient relationships, leading to enhanced patient satisfaction.

 

In Conclusion…

Embracing these top tips in your medical practice marks the beginning of an enhanced patient journey. Each small step you take to focus on patient care can have profound effects. Start by identifying potential barriers, then systematically address them using tech advancements and empathetic approaches. Use every opportunity to connect with patients on a personal level.

Author Bio:

Veronica Turner is a health and lifestyle writer with over 10 years of experience. She creates compelling content on nutrition, fitness, mental health, and overall wellness.

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Case Management Certificate program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification.

10 Vital Best Practices When Marketing a Healthcare Business Online

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Composite image of smiling brunette doctor presenting her handWritten by Veronica Turner

 

The rapidly evolving online landscape is opening up new avenues for healthcare businesses to connect with their prospective clients. Making the most of these opportunities calls for implementing the best practices when marketing healthcare services online.

This article will delve into these and other effective techniques to navigate the digital marketing world in the healthcare industry. Get ready to master how to market your healthcare business.

 

10 Best Practices When Marketing a Healthcare Business Online

Online or digital marketing can be a challenge for any business, but if you work in healthcare, you’ll need more empathetic strategies that work well with patients. Here’s how to do just that.

 

  1. Work With a Marketing Agency

Managing an effective healthcare digital marketing strategy can be a complex task. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider working with a dedicated marketing agency. Professionals in these agencies have the expertise and resources to navigate the intricacies of online marketing.

They understand consumer behavior trends, algorithm changes, and how to make your content stand out among competitors. They can ensure your marketing efforts bring substantial results.

 

  1. Research and Identify Your Target Audience

The process of understanding your audience begins with identifying who might be interested in your services. From that point, you have the foundation to dig deeper into understanding the specifics about these prospective clients, like demographics or typical health concerns.

This valuable information can then be used to tailor your marketing strategy. A clear view of your target audience allows you to align your offerings better with their needs and expectations.

 

  1. Optimize Website for SEO

Search engine optimization (SEO) allows your site to appear prominently in search results on platforms like Google when someone searches for services you offer. Prominence is achieved through relevant keywords, regular content updates, and ensuring a user-friendly site design.

A well-executed SEO strategy can significantly expand the online visibility of your business, leading more potential clients to discover and engage with your healthcare services.

 

  1. Offer Omnichannel Customer Support

Omnichannel support gives prospective patients and clients the flexibility to choose their preferred method of communication, be it through email, phone, live chat, or social media.

By ensuring that help is readily available across these channels, your business can meet customers where they’re most comfortable. Plus, fostering an atmosphere of consistent support helps establish trust with potential clients, a key factor when choosing a healthcare provider.

 

  1. Invest in High-Quality Healthcare Content

High-quality content involves creating informative, accurate, and engaging articles or social media posts on relevant health topics. Such content establishes your business as a reliable source of information and helps with search engine rankings when optimized for keywords.

Moreover, creating quality content that provides value to readers can increase website traffic, enhance your brand’s reputation, and position your healthcare firm as an industry leader.

 

  1. Leverage Social Media Platforms

Social media platforms, including Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, and Instagram, amongst others, offer high visibility among potential customers. Through them, you can engage with your audience directly by sharing relevant information and updates about your services.

Social media also offers the opportunity to amass organic reach through posts or advertisements. Furthermore, using these platforms gives your brand a human touch.

 

  1. Invest in Online Paid Advertising

Platforms such as Google Ads or social media ads allow you to place your healthcare business prominently in front of potential clients who are searching for the services you provide.

When combined with a solid SEO strategy, paid ads make your online presence more robust and searchable. Just remember to keep track of your return on investment (ROI) for each ad campaign to determine their effectiveness. This will allow you to adjust strategies accordingly.

 

  1. Localize Your Online Presence

Localizing your online presence is particularly important if you operate in specific geographic areas. For instance, optimizing your website content and SEO for local keywords or using location-based ad targeting features on platforms like Google can help reach people near you.

Registering with Google My Business is another excellent strategy for visibility. A well-localized online presence ensures that you’re reaching potential clients within range of your services.

 

  1. Gain Reviews And Testimonials

Positive reviews from past or current clients help promote trust in your services among potential customers. Therefore, encourage satisfied patients to leave reviews or testimonials about their experiences on relevant platforms like Yelp, Google Reviews, or even your own website.

A slew of positive feedback can make a difference to someone considering your services. Moreover, rich and frequent customer endorsements could also improve local SEO ratings.

 

  1. Try Email and Referral Marketing

By gathering email addresses from your website visitors, you can build direct correspondence with them, sharing customized health advice, tips, and updates about your services.

Additionally, a referral program encourages satisfied patients to refer their friends or family to your healthcare business. A well-crafted email marketing strategy coupled with an incentivized referral system could be the winning combination for your healthcare business’s growth.

 

In Conclusion…

Now that you’re equipped with essential digital marketing strategies for healthcare businesses, it’s time to put these tools into action! Successful marketing isn’t a one-size-fits-all activity. It requires adapting strategies to your unique set of services and the needs of your patients.

Author Bio:

Veronica Turner is a health and lifestyle writer with over 10 years of experience. She creates compelling content on nutrition, fitness, mental health, and overall wellness.

 

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s professional certification programs and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification.

10 Lucrative Work-From-Home Jobs In The Medical Industry

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Female doctor talking with colleagues through a video call withWritten by Veronica Turner

Whether you’re seeking increased flexibility or looking to cut down your commute, remote jobs have taken on a new appeal, especially in the healthcare field. The medical industry not only promises a solid income but also lends you an opportunity to impact lives positively.

From medical transcriptionists and health information technicians to virtual health coaches, there’s a wide spectrum of such rewarding jobs that combine healthcare and remote work. Let’s dive into these fields and explore some profitable healthcare positions you can do from home.

 

10 Incredible Work-From-Home Jobs In The Medical Industry

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 27% of the U.S. population works from home. If you want to be a part of this growing demographic, consider applying for one of these careers.

  1. Medical Transcriptionist

A medical transcriptionist is a key figure in the healthcare sector. In this role, you’re tasked with listening to voice recordings from healthcare professionals and transforming them into written documents. Accuracy and attention to detail are essential skills in this profession.

This job involves a lot of responsibility. After all, accurate medical records are crucial for providing top-notch patient care. As a bonus, it offers the flexibility and convenience of working from home. With increasing digitalization in healthcare, this career shows an upward trend.

  1. Health Information Technician

As a health information technician, you play the important role of maintaining and organizing health data. Your primary responsibilities include ensuring the data’s accuracy, quality, accessibility, and security in both paper files and HIPAA-approved electronic systems.

Proficiency in technology and familiarity with medical records are typically required for this job.

With a pivotal role in ensuring efficiency within our healthcare system, a health information technician provides a rewarding career that combines technical skills with medical knowledge.

  1. Medical Coders

Coding is an engaging and in-demand profession, with a role that focuses on transferring healthcare diagnoses and procedures into recognized codes. Particularly noteworthy are positions involving medical coding in NJ, where opportunities can be found in and out of state.

As the backbone of the healthcare documentation and billing process, your work as a medical coder contributes tremendously to improved efficiency in the healthcare system. The best part? You can apply online all around the USA, making a living in CA but working in NJ possible.

  1. Telephonic Nurse Case Manager

A telephonic nurse case manager is an evolving role in the healthcare industry that combines nursing expertise with organizational skills. Your job will involve coordinating and overseeing a patient’s care plan over the phone, ensuring they receive appropriate and necessary treatments.

While still providing high-quality patient care, this role offers the appealing benefit of working remotely through Telehealth services. This innovative approach to healthcare delivery offers great rewards and satisfaction in playing a vital part in improving patients’ health outcomes.

  1. Clinical Research Coordinator

In the world of medical research, a clinical research coordinator is an integral part of any successful study. Your primary role will be to oversee all aspects of clinical trials, from gathering and processing data to adhering to protocols and maintaining contact with participants.

This job demands organizational skills, attention to detail, and sound knowledge of scientific procedures related to the testing of new medications or treatments. With digital technologies making it possible to conduct tasks remotely, you could comfortably perform this role at home.

  1. Home Care or Hospice Marketer

In the expanding realm of healthcare, the role of a home care or hospice marketer is increasingly important. Your job would consist of leveraging various online channels and social platforms to promote the services provided by home care establishments or hospices.

A strong blend of marketing and communication skills, coupled with a good understanding of healthcare services, is usually required for this role. Combining creativity with service, it’s a fulfilling job that capitalizes on digital marketing trends in healthcare while working from home.

  1. Virtual Health Coach

The position of a virtual health coach is a rewarding work-from-home job opportunity within the healthcare industry. If you’re a certified health coach with an empathetic mind and a sincere desire to improve people’s lives, this career may be perfectly suited for you.

Your responsibilities can range from providing guidance on healthier lifestyle choices to helping clients cultivate positive habits and attitudes toward personal health. This profession offers satisfying income potential and a sense of fulfillment in contributing to the wellness of others.

  1. Pharmaceutical Sales Representative

A pharmaceutical sales representative is often the critical link between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare professionals. In this remote work role, you would connect directly with medical practitioners to promote drugs manufactured by the company you represent.

Not only does it require a good understanding of the pharmaceutical industry, but also excellent interpersonal and communication skills for effective sales pitches. Although there may be performance targets to meet, working from home allows flexibility in your schedule.

  1. Teletherapy

As a teletherapist, your role would be to conduct online therapy sessions with patients, addressing issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, and more. This remote work model enables you to provide meaningful therapeutic interactions without leaving home.

You’d need appropriate credentials as a therapist and, ideally, some familiarity with online platforms. Teletherapy offers an incredible opportunity to positively impact individuals’ mental wellness from the comfort of your own home while attaining good income potential.

  1. Medical Illustrator

Being a medical illustrator could be a captivating work-from-home career option in the medical industry. In this position, your primary responsibility would be to design and produce visually engaging content for instructional material or presentations on medical topics.

By transforming complex medical information into digestible visual content, you’ll play an essential role in enhancing understanding among doctors, students, and patients alike. With growing digital media demand, this remote profession is lucrative and incredibly creative.

 

In Conclusion…

So, are you ready to start your career in the medical industry from the comfort of your own home? Remember, all these roles offer not just great financial prospects; they also allow you to positively impact health outcomes while working remotely. Your skills, qualifications, and passion can pave the way for a rewarding journey in these diverse medical fields.

Author Bio:

Veronica Turner is a health and lifestyle writer with over 10 years of experience. She creates compelling content on nutrition, fitness, mental health, and overall wellness.

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s professional certification programs and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification.

6 Lucrative Healthcare Careers That Are Worth Pursuing In 2023

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Telemedicine concept - asian male doctor has video call with female patient with depression online by webcam in clinicWritten by Veronica Turner

As you start evaluating all your professional options for the year, it’s crucial to consider some of the fastest-growing and most rewarding careers in healthcare.

The industry is vast and varied, offering different roles that blend passion with lucrative earning opportunities.

By focusing on these trending professions for 2023, we hope to inspire your search for a fulfilling career that aligns perfectly with your skillset and aspirations. Now let’s set off on this exciting journey together!

 

Taking on Telemedicine Services

Telehealth is rapidly growing and hugely beneficial, with remote consultations saving time, money and increasing accessibility to care. If technology intrigues you and flexibility appeals to your work-life balance goals, diving into telemedicine could be ideal for you.

Here are key facets to know:

  • Versatility: With options like providing remote patient monitoring or conducting online doctor visits, there’s a role suitable for every healthcare professional.
  • Work-Life Balance: By eliminating commuting completely, telemedicine offers better control over your schedule- a significant perk not only during pandemic times!
  • Income Potential: Owing to its rising demand, jobs in telehealth also command a premium. For qualified physicians in this space, hourly earnings sit at an average of just under $100. Meanwhile the overall average in this field is around $85,000 annually.

Venturing into telemedicine services opens up new arenas that combine medical expertise with innovation. This could be a perfect fit for healthcare professionals looking to thrive in a role that will be relevant going forward.

 

The Rising Demand for Clinical Research Coordinators

Clinical research coordinators are the pulse behind every successful clinical trial – they manage operations, ensure compliance while overseeing patient safety and data accuracy. With an increase in medical research and drug discovery, these roles are highly sought-after.

Insights into this rewarding profession:

  • Critical Role: As a coordinator, you’d be liaising between different stakeholders, including patients and doctors, to guarantee the effectiveness of trials.
  • Growth Opportunities: The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports job growth in this sector to be faster than average due to expanding areas like genetic testing.
  • Attractive Salary: Reliable compensation of over $68,000 on average reflects the responsibility for detail-oriented tasks that come with managing complex clinical trials.

A career as a clinical research coordinator is exceptionally gratifying; not only does it offer diverse opportunities but also opens doors for incredible advancements within healthcare sectors.

 

Exploring the Ins and Outs of Healthcare Logistics

Navigating complex logistical networks is at the core of healthcare delivery systems, making logistics professionals pivotal in patient care quality. Expanding beyond conventional supply chain management roles, logistic careers are evolving rapidly in today’s dynamic healthcare scenario.

Gauge this fascinating role below:

  • Role Influence: As a key player, you ensure inventory management or transportation processes run smoothly, which is crucial to maintaining seamless services within healthcare establishments.
  • Impact on Patient Care: Efficient logistics in healthcare translates into speedy delivery of vital supplies like medication or necessary equipment. This directly affects response times, thereby impacting patient care quality positively.
  • Career Growth: The continuous emphasis on system optimization means a robust demand for skilled logisticians now and in future years.

Intricately connected with daily operational efficiencies, a career in healthcare logistics promises unmatched professional satisfaction coupled with considerable remuneration.

 

Health Informatics: The Intersection of Tech and Medicine

Health informatics is a unique field where technology meets healthcare to enhance patient outcomes and streamline processes. As an information systems expert in this capacity, you’d oversee technology implementations whilst ensuring data security within medical facilities.

Consider these perks of being a health information technologist:

  • Technological Impact: You bridge the gap between clinicians and IT professionals, improving technological integration for better patient care.
  • Data Security Role: A vital part of your job involves protecting sensitive health data from cyber threats, invariably avoiding any concerns over job stability given the current climate.
  • Compensation: Given the specialized nature of this role, it offers competitive salaries compared to other healthcare careers, with median annual wages sitting at just over $55,000.

A specialization in Health Informatics not only harnesses both tech-savvy skills and clinical understanding but also promises immense potential as we inch towards digitized healthcare ecosystems. If that sounds up your street, get involved!

 

The Alluring Profession of Health Policy Analysts

Health policy analysts stand at the crossroads of healthcare and legislation, shaping public health policies that affect millions. If you are intrigued by law-making processes and want to impact change systematically, this role is for you.

A quick peek into a policy analyst’s world:

  • Wide Influence: You form strategies, influencing healthcare legislation on local or national levels.
  • Diverse Workplaces: From government agencies to private research organizations – your workplace choices remain vast.
  • Robust Earnings: As per Payscale reports, experience strongly influences pay for health policy analysts, with average salaries currently sitting at almost $67,000.

With immersive exposure in politically enriched environments and an opportunity to orchestrate progressive societal changes captured within their roles, health policy analysts truly undertake game-changing responsibilities with remarkable repercussions in real life.

 

Becoming a Medical Aesthetician: Fusing Beauty, Wellness, and Medicine

Medical aestheticians are skin care specialists working in medical settings. They merge beauty therapy with wellness treatments for patients undergoing surgery or battling illnesses that are adversely affecting their skin.

Peek into this fascinating career:

  • Unique Crossover: You’ll find beauty enthusiasts right at the junction of aesthetic treatment and medical healing.
  • Positive Impact: Working closely with dermatologists and oncologists, you will have the opportunity to restore your patients’ confidence post-surgery.
  • Lucrative Options: According to ZipRecruiter data, on average these experts can earn up to $35 hourly, and there are flexible freelance options here, as well as permanent roles.

So by combining compassion with aesthetics, becoming a medical aesthetician offers an unconventional yet fulfilling path within the healthcare industry that can be immensely rewarding both personally and financially.

 

The Bottom Line

Whatever skills you already have, and whatever ambitions you might hold regarding your earnings, healthcare can encompass everyone and anyone who has a passion for helping people and hard work. So make 2023 the year you take your career to the next level, and you won’t regret it.

Author Bio.

Veronica Turner is a health and lifestyle writer with over 10 years of experience. She creates compelling content on nutrition, fitness, mental health, and overall wellness.

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s professional certification programs and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification.

7 Career Options for Those with a Pre-Med Background

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Female Doctor Standing At The Hospital With A Digital Tablet

Written by Berry College Team

Pre-medicine (pre-med) programs allow students to develop a foundation in natural sciences such as physics, chemistry, and biology. As pre-med is not a major, those in this educational track may be classified under another major of their choosing. It’s common for pre-med students to choose a natural science major to prepare for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).

What is Pre-Med?

Pre-med is not a major. 

Pre-med is an educational track taken by students interested in applying to medical school after earning their bachelor’s degree. Pre-med students typically major in related fields such as biology or biochemistry. They can also major in seemingly unrelated fields such as philosophy, languages, or sociology.

Berry College’s Pre-Med program provides insight into the medical and liberal arts aspects of medicine to create well-rounded professionals.

Finding ways to incorporate additional passions into your pre-med program could lead you towards a rewarding career in healthcare. However, pre-med programs allow students to choose a major best aligned with their goals upon graduation. 

 

Career Options for Pre-Med Students

Acceptance rates vary significantly between medical schools. However, on average, 43% of medical school applicants were accepted during the 2021-2022 application cycle. Luckily, pre-medicine programs provide a background which can be applied to other fields in healthcare.

Pre-medicine programs focus primarily on natural sciences. This knowledge can be applied to a variety of disciplines in medicine and allied health careers. 

An understanding of natural science can be beneficial for fields such as:

 

Best teeth. Content dark-haired patient looking in the mirror and her dentist sitting new herDentistry

Dentists are experts in conditions, diseases, and treatment for issues relating to a patient’s jaw, mouth, teeth, and gums. They’re in charge of teeth extraction, examining X-rays, and performing procedures to help maintain oral health. They write prescriptions, develop treatment plans, and educate patients on maintaining proper oral hygiene between visits.

To become a dentist, you’ll need to:

  1. Earn a bachelor’s degree (major can vary, but courses in natural sciences are helpful)
  2. Take the Dental Admission Test (DAT)
  3. Earn your Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree
  4. Complete residency
  5. Earn your board certification

Orthodontists are dentists with additional training in orthodontics to diagnose, treat, and prevent dental irregularities. They also treat facial irregularities such as overbites and gaps between teeth with braces, retainers, and other devices. 

To become an orthodontist, you’ll need to:

  1. Earn a bachelor’s degree (major can vary, but courses in natural sciences are helpful)
  2. Take the Dental Admission Test (DAT)
  3. Earn your Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree
  4. Complete residency
  5. Earn your board certification

 

African young woman girl doing eye test checking examination with male man optometrist using phoropter in clinic or optical shop. Eyecare concept.Optometry

Optometrists take the role of a primary eye care provider. They’re in charge of examining, diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions such as nearsightedness and astigmatism. They also perform comprehensive eye exams and prescribe corrective lenses and contact lenses. 

Optometrists are also in charge of detecting and managing conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. If these conditions worsen, patients may be referred to an ophthalmologist, medical doctor specializing in eye and vision care.

To become an optometrist, you’ll need to:

  1. Earn a bachelor’s degree (major can vary, but courses in natural science are helpful)
  2. Take the Optometry Admission Test (OAT)
  3. Earn your Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree
  4. Earn experience or complete residency
  5. Earn your board certification

Ophthalmologists diagnose and treat more complex eye conditions, perform surgeries, and prescribe medication. They can narrow their specialty further by working in pediatrics or with specific conditions such as glaucoma or retinal detachment.

To become an ophthalmologist, you’ll need:

  1. Earn a bachelor’s degree (major can vary, but courses in natural science are helpful)
  2. Pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
  3. Earn a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
  4. Complete residency program in ophthalmology
  5. Earn your board certification

 

Biotechnology

Medical biotechnologists use live cells and biological materials to develop treatments such as vaccines and anti-viral medicines. They may also help develop precision medicine to provide customized patient care according to their genetic makeup.

Regenerative therapy, or gene therapy, is also a focal point for medical biotechnologists. They aim to repair or replace mutated genes with healthy ones to treat potentially life-threatening diseases.

Many biotechnology careers require a strong background in biology, chemistry, and other natural sciences. Additionally, pre-med programs often include courses in genetics, molecular biology, and biochemistry. Pre-med courses provide a broad understanding of these subjects which lays a solid foundation for a career in biotechnology. 

To become a medical biotechnologist, you’ll need to:

  1. Earn a bachelor’s degree (major can vary, but courses in natural science are helpful)
  2. Gain lab research experience
  3. Pursue a graduate degree in biotechnology, biomedical engineering, or a related field

 

Medical team looking at camera in operating theaterDoctor of Medicine (MD)

As a Doctor of Medicine (MD), you’ll diagnose, prevent, and treat physical or mental health conditions. You’ll conduct physical exams, order and interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and perform surgeries. MDs may specialize in surgical fields and master their techniques through rigorous training, residencies, and fellowships. 

MDs with surgical specialties also diagnose, treat, and manage conditions. MDs without surgical specialties are still trained to perform minor surgeries such as suture removals, draining cysts, and more. You may also recommend lifestyle changes to improve your patient’s overall health and wellbeing. 

MDs can incorporate additional interests into their career by specializing in dermatology, cardiology, psychiatry, pediatrics, and more. 

To become an MD, you’ll need to:

  1. Earn a bachelor’s degree (major can vary, but courses in natural science are helpful)
  2. Pass the MCAT
  3. Complete an MD program
  4. Pass both parts the United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE)
  5. Complete residency
  6. Earn your board certification

 

Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)

DOs take a holistic approach to medicine. These doctors take a patient’s body, mind, and emotions into consideration as they diagnose and treat patients. They use techniques such as massage therapy, spinal manipulation, and articulation to treat conditions. 

Like MDs, DOs may also incorporate additional interests into their careers through specialties such as pediatrics, obstetrics, geriatrics, and more.

To become DO, you’ll need to:

  1. Earn a bachelor’s degree (major can vary, but courses in natural science are helpful)
  2. Pass the MCAT
  3. Complete a DO program
  4. Complete residency
  5. Pass a licensing exam of your choice
  6. Earn your board certification

Both MDs, and DOs, can practice internal medicine, general medicine, or primary care. Internal medicine doctors, or internists, focus on diagnosing and treating conditions in adults. An internist provides comprehensive medical care for complex chronic conditions.

General medicine covers everything from internal medicine to primary care. Those in general medicine treat broad illnesses as they aren’t limited to one specialty. If a condition becomes too severe, they refer patients to specialists for additional, specialized treatment.  

Primary care medicine focuses on the overall health and well-being of patients. They handle physical exams, prescribing medication, health screenings, and treatment for minor illnesses or injuries. Those in primary care are typically a patient’s first point of contact for their health concerns. 

In Summary

Pre-med education provides a strong foundation in the natural sciences, which can provide a certain degree of career flexibility. While pre-med students may choose a career in medicine, their scientific background and skills are valuable in other fields. This can provide students with a variety of career options, allowing them to choose the path best aligned with their interests.

 

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Health Care Certificate Programs and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification.

Health Care News: Do We Need a Health Revolution?

Posted on by Dominick Flarey
Health Care News
Health Care News

The article, “Do We Need a Health Revolution?”, by Mark Haymon states

“We are raising a generation of Americans who don’t know their way around a kitchen or how to prepare a meal from scratch. That is why I have invited everyone to join me in an Eat-In tomorrow, April 7.”

American Institute Health Care Professionals’ insight:
Do you think we need a health care revolution?   Or do we simply need to get everyone informed on the latest health care news?    As it turns out many people do not know the basics.    Continuing healthcare education is needed.    For more on health care education please go to our site.

See on www.huffingtonpost.com

Health Care News: Coffee May Benefit Your Heart

Posted on by Dominick Flarey
A cup of coffee surrounded by coffee beans in the shape of a heart
Is coffee heart healthy?

Health Care News for Coffee Drinkers

The article, “Coffee In Moderation May Benefit Heart Slightly”, by Catharine Paddock PhD

“New research from the US suggests drinking coffee in moderation, that is four European cups (equivalent to two 8-ounce American servings) per day, may protect slightly against heart failure, contradicting the guidelines of the American Heart Association that currently warn against regular coffee consumption.”

For the full article please go here.

Heart health should be on everyone’s mind.   A quick cup of coffee in the mornings might be just what the doctor ordered.   Just make sure you do not overload it with cream and sugar.
If you want to keep up to date with health care news or possibly earn a health care certificate then you might want to visit our website.