Q2 2024 Newsletter
From the CEO
by Curt Hill
So far in this series reviewing the work that Donna, Paula, Jana, and I did in the summer of 2023, we have covered the values of partnership and communication – two of the five values we say are key to our company. This quarter, I’ll dig into a third value: integrity. Consistent with this value, I’ll also look at an aspect of the future we see as it pertains to what we promise.
When the four of us did this work together, we were clear that integrity was and is fundamental. The question is what do we mean by integrity? From our perspective, it is so overused in a business context that it almost seems cliché. So we dug in to uncover what we mean when we say integrity is a fundamental value. This is where we arrived: integrity is honoring who we say we are and doing what we say we will do. It is the foundation upon which our work stands. We say without integrity, it’s not worth doing. With integrity, the unimaginable can be achieved, together. This is completely consistent with our promise to be responsible for our work, and to routinely audit our results, cleaning up where we don’t deliver.
We instill this value and promise to our entire staff, from the welcome aboard call for new employees, to our monthly call with our managers and team leads, to our quarterly all-staff call. These are not just nice words and phrases to us, but rather the light that guides our action.
Referral Program
PMRG is introducing our first ever referral program. Details will be coming soon via email. The program is designed to be an acknowledgement to you for referring your colleagues to PMRG.
Curt Hill, CEO
PMRG, Inc
Navigating Success: Expert Consulting for Ophthalmology Practice Managers
by Jana Holt
The landscape of healthcare is in constant motion, and managing an ophthalmology practice today presents a unique set of complexities. From navigating intricate billing codes and optimizing patient flow to ensuring regulatory compliance and fostering a thriving team, the responsibilities of an ophthalmology practice manager are vast and demanding. In this dynamic environment, PMRG is your partner, offering expert consulting services. Our specialized professionals offer the knowledge, experience, and objective perspective needed to not only navigate current challenges but also to propel practices toward greater efficiency, profitability, and ultimately, enhanced patient care.
Key Areas of Consulting Services
Financial Management and Revenue Cycle Optimization
The financial health of any practice is paramount. Ophthalmology practices, with their specialized procedures and equipment, require meticulous financial management.
○ Revenue Cycle Assessments and Audits
○ Fee Schedule Analysis and Optimization
○ Coding and Documentation Training
○ Financial Reporting and Analysis
○ Budgeting and Forecasting
Operational Efficiency and Workflow Optimization
In a busy ophthalmology clinic, smooth operations translate directly to better patient experiences and increased staff satisfaction.
○ Workflow Analysis and Redesign
○ Lean Management Principles
○ Inventory Management for Supplies and Medications
○ Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
○ Strategies for Improving Communication and Collaboration Among Staff
Human Resources and Staff Management
The success of an ophthalmology practice hinges on its team.
○ Job Descriptions and Performance Evaluation Systems
○ Training and Development Programs
○ Compliance Training
○ Employee Relations and Conflict Resolution
○ Building a Positive and Productive Work Environment
○ Staff Handbooks and Policies
Compliance and Regulatory Guidance
The healthcare industry is subject to a complex web of regulations and compliance requirements.
○ HIPAA Compliance Assessments And Training
○ OSHA Safety Regulations
○ Medicare and Medicaid Compliance
○ Fraud and Abuse Prevention
○ Development of Comprehensive Compliance Policies and Procedures
○ Risk Management Assessments
The Benefits of Engaging PMRG Consulting Services
● Improved financial performance and profitability
● Increased operational efficiency and productivity
● Enhanced patient satisfaction and loyalty
● Reduced risk of compliance issues and penalties
● Better staff morale and retention
● Achieving strategic growth objectives
● Access to specialized expertise and objective perspectives
● Freeing up internal resources
In the complex and ever-evolving world of healthcare, ophthalmology practice managers face a multitude of challenges and opportunities. PMRG expert consulting services offer a valuable partnership, providing the specialized knowledge and strategic guidance needed to navigate these complexities effectively. By strategically leveraging our expertise in areas such as financial management, operations, human resources, and compliance, ophthalmology practices can achieve greater efficiency, financial stability, and ultimately, deliver exceptional care to their patients. Exploring our available consulting options is not just an expense; it's a strategic investment in the long-term success and vitality of your practice.
Employee Spotlight:
Cynthia Castañeda
This month we’re featuring PMRG Medical Biller Cynthia Castañeda. Her journey with PMRG began 13 years ago, shortly after Cynthia graduated from vocational school for medical billing and coding as a young mom. At the time, she was searching for something steady and supportive to help build a strong future for herself and her daughter. A friend who worked at PMRG recommended the company, and she’s been a valuable team member ever since.
Cynthia appreciates the ability to work from home that PMRG offers, calling it “a wonderful experience.”
“It gives me the flexibility to be present for my family when they need me while still allowing me to do work I enjoy,” says Cynthia. “While I do miss the social aspect of being in the office from time to time, the ability to balance work and home life is something I truly value. PMRG has been with me through many stages of life, and I’m grateful to God to be part of a company that values families.”
Outside of work, Cynthia loves getting creative with DIY projects, especially watching tutorials and bringing those ideas to life around the house. She and her husband also share a love for cooking.
“We’re always trying out new recipes together. It’s one of our favorite ways to spend time as a couple,” she said.
She also enjoys doing Zumba and is excited to be starting a new fitness journey with weightlifting.
“But above all, my passion is my family, especially my kids,” says Cynthia. She has three children: Mylea, 14; Elina, 6; and Josiah, 2. “Everything I do is to give them the best life possible and ensure they have everything they need to grow, thrive, and feel loved.”