Cathy Rudisill, RN, senior vice president of operations at Ambulatory Surgical Centers of America, outlines physician recruitment and ASC staffing changes to immediately improve profits. She spoke in a 90-minute workshop with two other ASCOA executives at the 9th Annual Orthopedic, Spine and Pain-Management Driven ASC Conference in Chicago.
Keep looking for new physicians. Even in areas that appear saturated, there are still independent physicians left to recruit. "Some physicians are not interested in a partnership but need a place to do a few cases," Ms. Rudisill said. To recruit them, "you have to think outside the box." Give candidates a trial run. In the debriefing session ask what went right and what was "not quite so right," she said.
Get the most out of staffing. Hire staff members for attitude. If they lack experience in a few areas, you can always train them. The number full-time employees in the core staff should be based on a realistic assessment of scheduling needs. For periods of higher volume, use part-time and per diem employees. Don’t guarantee staff any set hours or schedules. "It is going to kill you if you make guarantees," she said.
Staff the business office well. A well functioning business office is crucial to a profitable ASC. "You want claims to go out on time and to have a timely follow-up," Ms. Rudisill said. Business office staff should usually be full-time. Hire lean when opening because claims volume is low at first.
Learn more about Ambulatory Surgical Centers of America.
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5 Ways to Improve ASC Staffing and Scheduling