Month: March 2024

As we move through the third decade of the 21^st century, and a generation that has come-of-age during a time of constant stress, change, and multiple “unprecedented events” moves into leadership positions, mental health advocacy has emerged as a pivotal focus area. Society is now recognizing the profound impact of mental health on overall well-being, and healthcare leaders have a unique opportunity to champion initiatives that break the stigma surrounding mental illness and provide much-needed support to those in need. Let’s explore the increasing importance of mental health advocacy and discuss how healthcare organizations can play a vital role in promoting mental health awareness and access to care. 

Recognizing the Importance of Mental Health 

In recent years, the importance of mental health has gained widespread recognition. Mental illnesses affect millions of individuals worldwide, impacting their quality of life, relationships, and ability to function in daily life. In the U.S., it is estimated that more than one in five adults live with a mental illness. That’s nearly 57.8 million people in just the United States alone. From depression and anxiety to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, mental health conditions can vary widely in severity and presentation, highlighting the need for comprehensive support and resources. 

The Role of Healthcare Organizations in Advocacy 

Healthcare organizations of all types are at the forefront of advocating for mental health awareness and support within their communities. Even is mental or behavioral health is not a specialty for your healthcare organization, leveraging your expertise and resources, in combination with other healthcare experts in your community can help dismantle barriers, combat stigma, and enhance access to crucial mental health services. But how can you and your team begin to make a difference?  

Breaking the Stigma: 

Healthcare organizations can lead the charge in breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness. By promoting open discussions, providing education about mental health, and sharing stories of recovery, healthcare leaders can help dispel myths and misconceptions, fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding. 

Increasing Access to Services: 

Access to mental health services remains a significant barrier for many individuals. Healthcare organizations can address this challenge by expanding mental health services, integrating behavioral health into primary care settings, and implementing telehealth options to reach underserved populations. 

Promoting Well-Being: 

Beyond treatment, healthcare organizations can focus on promoting overall well-being and resilience. This may include offering wellness programs, stress management resources, and community support networks to help individuals maintain optimal mental health and cope with life’s challenges. 

Initiatives in Mental Health Advocacy 

So you’re bought in – you and your organization understand the importance of mental health advocacy and want to create a culture within your team and your community that encourages open conversations and increased access. How do you do it? Here are some practical ideas we have seen work to promote awareness and resilience in some of the communities our clients serve. 

Anti-Stigma Campaigns: 

Launching anti-stigma campaigns that raise awareness about mental health issues and encourage empathy and understanding towards those affected by mental illness. These don’t have to be incredibly time-intensive, they can be as simple as sharing resources that have already been created, or joining anti-stigma movements that have gained worldwide traction, like the #DoYourShare campaign created by PAHO and WHO. Looking at successful campaigns like that one can help you and your team brainstorm creative ideas that will connect with your community, both online (social media campaigns and webinars) and in-person (community events and open houses). 

Community Outreach Programs: 

Speaking of community events, engaging in community outreach programs that provide education, resources, and support for individuals and families impacted by mental health conditions can make a big impact. Mental Health America recommends things like: 

• Organizing a community run or walk 
• Hosting a mental health screening or other educational event at a local venue 
• Planning an advocacy event or email campaign to local government officials 
• Organizing a meet and greet with your mental health team, or if mental health isn’t one of the services you provide, teaming up with a local organization that does provide these services and introducing your patients to the available providers 

Check out other free resources from MHA here 

Workplace Mental Health Initiatives: 

Implementing workplace mental health initiatives that prioritize employee well-being, offer mental health resources, and foster a supportive and inclusive work environment will help shift the culture of your organization and the community. We love ideas like: 

• Flexible work arrangements, if there are positions that can have some work-from-home days 
• Providing discounts or paying for premium versions of mental health apps like Calm or Balance 
• Bringing in guest speakers to do organization-wide education seminars on mental health in the workplace 
• Providing incentives for participation in your workplace initiatives 

Moving Forward: Advocating for Mental Health 

As leaders in the healthcare space, we have the power to drive meaningful change in mental health advocacy. By prioritizing initiatives that reduce stigma, increase access to services, and promote overall well-being, you can make a tangible difference in the lives of the individuals in your communities affected by mental illness. We love working with healthcare organizations nationwide dedicated to breaking down barriers, providing support, and advocating for a world where mental health is valued, understood, and prioritized. Together, we’re moving towards a brighter, healthier future for all. 

Telehealth has revolutionized the way healthcare services are delivered, creating both opportunities and challenges for revenue cycle management. Here at Practice Management, we’ve adapted our billing services to address the rise of telehealth to ensure our clients are maximizing their revenue and providing services that create the biggest impact in their communities. Today, we’re exploring the impact of telehealth on financial processes and sharing our insights into navigating the financial challenges this tool might create for your healthcare organization. 

The Rise of Telehealth: A Game-Changer in Healthcare 

Telehealth, also known as telemedicine, has emerged as a game-changer in the healthcare industry, allowing patients to access medical care remotely via video conferencing, phone calls, and secure messaging platforms. This shift towards virtual care has opened up new possibilities for patients and providers alike, offering convenience, accessibility, and flexibility in healthcare delivery. 

Impact on Revenue Cycle Management 

As telehealth continues to gain traction, its impact on revenue cycle management cannot be understated. The transition to virtual care introduces new complexities in billing, coding, and reimbursement processes, which means you may need to adapt your revenue cycle management strategies to fit these unique needs.  

1. Billing and Reimbursement: 

Telehealth reimbursement policies vary by payer and jurisdiction, posing challenges for revenue cycle management. It’s essential for your team to stay updated on reimbursement guidelines and properly code telehealth services to ensure accurate billing and timely reimbursement. 

2. Patient Collections: 

With telehealth, the traditional point-of-service collections model may not be feasible. Providing a convenient, seamless payment process for all patients, including telehealth patients, increases patient satisfaction and ultimately, collections. Adapt your collection strategies to accommodate virtual visits and consider offering online payment options or setting up automated payment plans. 

3. Documentation and Compliance: 

Proper documentation of telehealth encounters is critical for compliance and reimbursement purposes. Healthcare providers must ensure that telehealth visits are documented accurately and comply with regulatory requirements to avoid compliance issues and revenue loss. This means getting your whole team onboard with accuracy and processes! When everyone, from providers to administrators, understands the importance of documentation and compliance, your telehealth revenue cycle will be streamlined and result in maximum revenue collections. 

Navigating Financial Challenges 

The healthcare organizations we work with are tasked with ensuring financial viability while maintaining high-quality patient care standards. Proactively addressing financial challenges associated with an increase in telehealth will help establish long-term success for your organization. 

1. Streamline Billing Processes: 

Implement efficient billing processes specifically tailored for telehealth services. Utilize technology solutions that automate billing tasks, streamline claim submission, and facilitate ERA reconciliation. 

2. Educate Staff and Patients: 

Provide comprehensive training for staff members on telehealth billing and reimbursement protocols. Educate patients on their financial responsibilities for telehealth services, including copayments, deductibles, and insurance coverage. Make sure this education is completed before you launch any new telehealth initiatives and implement continuing education/training updates to encompass any new changes to your processes. Patients should also be educated on their financial responsibilities before they book their first telehealth appointment. 

3. Monitor Key Performance Indicators: 

Track and analyze key performance indicators related to telehealth revenue cycle management, such as claim denial rates, days in AR, and collection rates. Use these insights to identify areas for improvement and implement targeted strategies. Remember, what KPIs matter to your healthcare organization could be unique to your state, leadership team, and overall goals, so take some time to analyze your data and decide which metrics mean the most to you. 

Embracing Innovation 

In the face of evolving healthcare delivery models, embracing innovation and adaptation in financial processes will help your organization thrive in the digital era. By leveraging technology, educating staff and patients, and monitoring performance metrics, you can navigate the financial challenges associated with telehealth and ensure long-term financial success and increased access to healthcare for your community. 

Overwhelmed? Consider Outsourcing 

If you find yourself wanting to implement a robust telehealth program but feel overwhelmed by the challenges in managing telehealth-related revenue cycles, outsourcing your RCM can offer a viable solution. Outsourcing RCM to experts that understand telehealth billing in your state and for your specialty allows you and your team to offload the complexities of billing, coding, and reimbursement processes associated with telehealth services. This helps your organization gain the expertise, scalability, and efficiency of a stellar billing team that can navigate telehealth-related financial challenges. Outsourcing RCM means your team can focus on delivering high-quality patient care while still ensuring optimal financial performance. 

Telehealth is here to stay, reshaping the landscape of healthcare delivery and presenting new opportunities for revenue cycle management. By proactively addressing financial challenges, embracing innovation, and prioritizing patient care, healthcare organizations can navigate the complexities of telehealth and emerge stronger.