Bridging the gap…between the business of medicine and the practice of medicine.

November / December 2009:
Your Practice and the Recession

Despite beliefs—or wishful thinking—that medicine is impervious to recession, it’s likely you are seeing its effects on your practice. If you have empty gaps in your schedule, if those who are coming in are having a harder time paying bills, or if they’re sicker because they’ve put off preventive care, you’re not alone. But you’re also not without options, ranging from incentives in the president’s stimulus plan to creative business decisions and patient-friendly policies. Start by taking a hard look at how your business is doing, then consider ways to not only improve your bottom line today, but also run a tighter, smarter, and ultimately more profitable practice in a post-recession environment.

In This Issue:

• Introduction
• The Effect on Your Practice
  Tough economic times are putting the pressure on primary care physicians. Understanding why that’s happening can help you find answers that can lead to better solutions.
• Understanding New Incentives
  Electronic health records and e-prescribing are key aspects of the stimulus plan. Know how to qualify for incentive payments.
• How to Thrive During a Recession
  We give you tips on how to run a better business while you work with patients who are struggling through difficult financial times.
• Other Coping Strategies to Consider
  This chapter walks you through trends that are actually getting a boost from the recession, such as concierge medicine, the family-team care model, and bartering.
• Post-recession Planning
  Know which changes you’re making now are worth keeping for the long haul, and what options you should be considering for the future.
• Resources: For More Information