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When “Dr. Google” Walks Through the Door
As you know (and experience each clinic day), patients often arrive having researched their symptoms online before scheduling an appointment. While the internet has made health information more accessible, it has also made misinformation just as easy to find. Rather than dismissing a patient’s self-diagnosis, acknowledge the effort they’ve made to understand their condition. A simple response such as, “I can…
Don’t Assume all Blue Cross Plans Pay the Same
Many podiatry practices assume that because multiple Blue Cross (and other private payer) plans are submitted electronically using the same payer ID, they reimburse similarly. In reality, that assumption can cost your practice significantly each year. Using Blue Cross as our main example: A single payer ID may represent dozens—or even hundreds—of different employer groups,…
It’s Okay for Doctors to Take Time Off
Your practice should have a consistent plan for how staff communicate with patients when a provider is out of the office—whether it’s for vacation, continuing education, surgery, personal time, or an unexpected absence. Train all team members to respond professionally WITHOUT oversharing. Simple statements such as, “Dr. Smith is out of the office today and will return on…
Clean Claims Require More Than Timely Chart Notes
Many podiatrists believe that completing chart notes and coding within a timely manner means claims are ready to go. But timely documentation is only part of the equation. Clean claims depend on accurate chart notes, correct diagnoses, appropriate CPT codes, and proper modifier usage. Even a minor omission or coding error can result in claim rejections, denials,…
One Negative Employee Costs More Than You Think
A disruptive employee doesn’t just affect morale—they can quietly impact your entire practice culture, productivity, and patient experience. When one staff member consistently creates tension, is constantly complaining about how much they have to do, gossips, resists accountability, or negatively influences others, the effects often spread faster than leaders realize. High-performing employees may become disengaged, team…
Your Next Great Manager may Already be on your TEAM
When a management position becomes available (or necessary), many podiatrists immediately begin searching outside the practice for someone with “experience.” While external hires can bring valuable perspectives, promoting a proven team member often creates stronger long-term results from both a culture and accountability standpoint. An internal candidate already understands your practice values, workflows, patient expectations,…
New Patient No Shows are Usually not Patient Problems
Most practices blame patients for no-shows, but high no-show rates (above 5%) are usually caused by inefficient scheduling systems, poor communication, or too much delay between booking and the appointment. If your new patient no-show rate is climbing, focus on tightening the process instead of just getting frustrated. Ways to Reduce New Patient No-Shows (think of this as your “Get…
SOP Reality Check: The “Replace Them Tomorrow” Test
Now that the process of creating new or updating existing SOPs is well underway, it’s time to ask yourself – honestly: If a key employee didn’t show up tomorrow, could a brand-new hire step in and perform their job using only your SOPs? Not “eventually figure it out.” Not “after asking a bunch of questions.” Not…
If You Don’t Know What Your Manager Does, That’s a System Failure—Not a Staffing Mystery
Several of my recent conversations with new and potential clients have included the statement “I’m not really sure what my manager does or what he/she should be doing.” If this sounds familiar or not, the following Pro Tip and included SOP is well worth the read. . . If you’re not exactly sure what your practice manager does all…
Does Your SOP Need an SOP?
How are those SOPs coming along? Have you started yet? Are you or your staff unsure where to begin? Well, you can start by re-reading the Pro Tip from March 16th (15 SOPs that Impact Revenue Most) and use that as a jumping off point. Just as an aside. . . If you have fallen…