Archived Publications eBook: The Dollars are in the Details | Page 7

She believes physicians respond better hearing from a peer
rather than hearing from their hospital employer’s C-suite.
A director on her staff shares data with the doctors and
works individually with each practice, communicating the
implications of non-compliance.
When it comes to documentation and EHR issues in
general, the biggest stressor for physicians, she says, is the
sheer number of mandated requirements. “This has added
time to their day. Their biggest concern is the time it takes
with each patient, especially a new patient, to check off each
bell and whistle in the electronic program versus simply
facing the patient and talking to them.” At least one of
Bethesda’s affiliated physicians has hired scribes in his
practice to enter information on the computer so he can
focus on his patient, notes Ms. Aquilina.
For some physicians, Bethesda’s EHR upgrade to better
accommodate MACRA-required changes was challenging.
Others took it in stride. “Tech-savvy doctors viewed going
from the old system to the new system as something they
could easily manage,” she explains.
Next on the Horizon: Telehealth
This wave of technology is not limited to a new EHR. Within
weeks, Bethesda Health will be introducing telehealth,
partnering with a company already used by Baptist South
Florida. Patients will use an app on a 24/7 basis to get
physician services typically found at an urgent care center.
The company will use the Bethesda brand for the program.
Initially, employed primary care doctors were interested in
participating as telehealth providers, offering expanded
access to their patients. “After assessing the impact of a
24/7 schedule on our doctors, we decided to partner with
a company that provides physician coverage. The physician
may be in California, Alaska, or New York, so patients are
still able to get care in the middle of the night,” remarks
Ms. Aquilina.
One hurdle faced by telehealth programs is health plan
coverage for the service. Bethesda is already seeing success
in this regard. “Some managed care plans – our employee
plan is one example – are offering a reduced co-payment
for telehealth visits. Instead of going to the ER for $250, our
health plan will soon allow an employee to go to the phone
and see a doctor in the middle of the night for only
$40-50,” she explains.
“It’s a very difficult thing for us, as
accountants, to step outside our comfort
zone, but there’s so much happening
throughout the organization, on the physician
side as well as the operational side.”
Telehealth physicians are a new breed of practitioner. Most
work exclusively for the telehealth company instead of
having a tradition al office practice. Since a physician in
California is not going to maintain a relationship with a
patient in south Florida, the system is configured to
generate a referral back to a local physician.
Advice for New CFOs: Seek Fresh Air
What advice would this experienced CFO offer newcomers?
In Ms. Aquilina’s view, it’s essential for CFOs to develop
rapport throughout the organization.
“The best advice I can give any new CFOs coming into this
industry, whether they’re coming from outside healthcare
or moving up through the ranks, is to expand their focus
beyond financial statements and the operating budget. It’s a
very difficult thing for us, as accountants, to step outside our
comfort zone, but there’s so much happening throughout
the organization, on the physician side as well as the
operational side. Building rapport with your executive level
peers as well as the folks providing clinical care is extremely
important,” she asserts. “During the operating budget
process – such as when a nursing director needs assistance
– if you haven’t earned her trust and respect, she won’t
come to you for that advice,” she adds.
She also recommends spending time outside the
organization. “Get involved in HFMA or your state CPA
association. Getting out of the office and networking with
your peers is extremely valuable from both an educational
and a relationship-building standpoint. You need the ability
to reach out to peers when you have a question or a
situation you’re trying to resolve. I’ve worked in the
healthcare environment for 21 years now, and most of that
time I’ve been involved in HFMA. It’s probably been the
best decision I’ve made for my career as a hospital CFO.”
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Reprint from JUL 2017 PX Advisor
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