Up & Coming Weekly

October 05, 2021

Up and Coming Weekly is a weekly publication in Fayetteville, NC and Fort Bragg, NC area offering local news, views, arts, entertainment and community event and business information.

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WWW.UPANDCOMINGWEEKLY.COM 52 UCW OCTOBER 6-12, 2021 HEALTH Top five tips for healthcare practices recovering from the pandemic (StatePoint) Employing one in eight adults nationwide, the healthcare industry is vital to the economy and communities across the country. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, it was hit hard, with many Americans avoiding routine and elective care. From veterinarians to dentists to primary care physicians, experts say that practitioners of all stripes have had to contend with unprecedented business challenges. "Practice owners have always needed more than medical skills to be successful, but now they're in need of even more support to get back on track," says David Marrin, head of Wells Fargo Healthcare Industries Group, which specializes in supporting small to mid-sized healthcare practices. As COVID-19 vaccines continue to be adminis- tered and social distancing mandates lessen, it's anticipated that the industry will bounce back. In the meantime, Marrin says practitioners should use this time as a learning experience and re-position their practice for future success: 1. Reach out to patients: Many people skipped their annual check-ups last year because they were unsure if it was safe to visit their doctor's office in-person. With a backlog of patients, there's an opportunity to update those clients on new safety protocols. Make sure returning patients know in advance the safety measures being taken, such as temperature checks, mandatory masks, physical barriers or limited occupancy. 2. Offer flexible payment options: COVID-19 has been devastating to many and some clients may be facing financial challenges. Practitioners should consider offering flexible payment options. Extend- ed payment plans, loyalty programs and financing options are a few ways to help clients get needed care while easing their burden. 3. Re-evaluate cash flow: Some practice owners are struggling and reporting less patient volume and declines in revenues. With overhead and other costs increasing, they should identify the most and least profitable services they provide. 4. Leverage digital channels: For many business- es, digital channels have become a primary source of communication and service for their customers. To encourage patients to return to the physical of- fice, highlighting safety protocols through email or social media can ease their concerns and help set expectations. Update online channels with current information and photos to represent what an in- person visit might look like. ose patients wishing to receive virtual care can also benefit from online portals, downloadable forms and other digital communication tools that create a two-way dialog allowing them to share questions and concerns about care, treatment, appointments and prescrip- tion refills. 5. Seek the right relationships and resources: One of the most important things physicians can do is pinpoint the right group of trusted advisors for management tips, financial guidance and direc- tion on the right products and resources for their unique needs. Owner of Veterinary Dental Services, Dr. Bonnie Shope says one of the most important lessons for her business was surrounding herself with mentors who have different perspectives and experiences. is expert team should also consist of a business banker with experience in the healthcare industry, as well as a healthcare consultant team to advise on practice management and other business challenges. Additionally, there are many tips and tools avail- able for healthcare practitioners taking proactive steps towards recovery. Check out the free articles and videos available on the Wells Fargo Healthcare Practices microsite. As many people return to their pre-pandemic rou- tines, healthcare practices should lean into creative business strategies to help them survive and thrive. take the next steps to your covid-19 recovery Are you a resident of Fayetteville or Cumberland County? emergency rental assistance program Struggling to pay your next rent or utility bills? Do you have past due rent or utility payments? FayettevilleCumberlandRAP.com 1-888-495-7710 RENT RELIEF IS NOW AVAILABLE take the next steps to your covid-19 recovery Are you a resident of Fayetteville or Cumberland County? emergency rental assistance program Struggling to pay your next rent or utility bills? Do you have past due rent or utility payments? FayettevilleCumberlandRAP.com 1-888-495-7710 RENT RELIEF IS NOW AVAILABLE Apply Now RENT RELIEF AVAILABLE Owned & Operated by TWO BROTHERS Catering I n t i m on y a t T h e V i n e P riva te • R o m a n tic • A f f o rd ab le C u st o m C a teri n g by T w o B r o t h ers Intimony at THE VINE Event Venue Wedding Packages Meeting & Party Facilities CALL 910-584-9892 to host your event CALL 910-584-9892 eVineNC.com or TwoBrothersCateringNC.com 806 Katie Street Fayetteville NC (Of f Owen Drive behind O-Reilly's) M areena & J a m es

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