Fall
Showing 689–704 of 741 results
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The process of partnering with a health system
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Vital Signs
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1018
Abstract: Throughout the country, hospitals are looking at ways to partner with physicians in order to create comprehensive health systems that will serve the needs of their service community as well as the physicians with whom they partner. But, to meet the requirements that are necessary to perform a comprehensive review and meet all Stark requirements, health systems must perform due diligence in regard to productivity, compensation, profitability, overhead and staffing. The overwhelming nature of the requests for documentation may foster fear or resentment among some practices, but they should think of it as merely a way for the health system to be introduced to the practice and how it operates, not as an intimidating or judgmental process.
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Increasing revenue by managing denials in a rough economy
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Vital Signs
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 985
Abstract: Hard economic times are causing medical practices to increasingly write off accounts because of bad debt. Thus, cash flow is more important than ever for providers. One of the biggest factors in improving cash flow is reducing the frequency and occurrence of denials and ensuring clean claims on the first submission. To effectively manage denials, physicians must identify the type of denial, educate staff, know how to edit claims and prepare appeals, and monitor progress.
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Patient complaints — Turning negatives into positives
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Vital Signs
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 825
Abstract: With the advent of online doctor reviews, patients can anonymously spread the word about the good, bad and ugly of their experiences with a particular office. And the impact of a negative online review to a practice could be significant, without the doctor having any control or say. But there are ways to prevent a patient’s negative opinion or turn it into a positive one. It involves various methods of listening to the patient. And, if he or she does request to transfer records to another practice, an exit interview may be able to resolve the problem — and help physicians understand where their practice might need improvement.
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Buying a troubled bank — a good strategy if you do it right
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 334
Abstract: For a healthy community bank, acquiring a failed or failing institution can provide a valuable strategic opportunity. But just because the price is low doesn’t mean it’s a bargain. More than ever, it’s important for an acquiring bank to define its strategy, perform thorough due diligence, focus on valuation issues, and determine the best deal structure.
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Reduce costs without losing control
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 514
Abstract: In a weak economy, like it or not, cost-cutting is an integral part of strategy. There’s no one right way to cut costs, but it’s important to consider the potential impact on internal controls. Eliminating jobs can heighten a bank’s risk if affected employees are integral to internal control processes. But there are ways to mitigate the risks if such job cuts are absolutely necessary.
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Outsourcing: Another cost-saving strategy
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 753
Abstract: In times when cost-cutting is king, outsourcing some functions can be more appealing than ever to community banks. But, as this article explains, the key to success is finding the areas of a bank’s operation that are right for outsourcing. Should the internal audit function be outsourced? What about human resources, mortgage fulfillment or proof-of-deposit functions? It’s also important to carefully select and monitor the service provider. And, as a sidebar explains, offshore outsourcing can be a challenge for community banks that pride themselves on knowing their customers better than their larger counterparts do.
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Measure for measure – Which profitability measurement tools are best for your bank?
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 984
Abstract: With some banks failing and many struggling, this article emphasizes that it’s vital for a community bank to monitor its performance closely. But which measurements are best? Historically, return on assets (ROA) has been the most popular. But banks are now placing greater emphasis on ROE. And how does one make a fair comparison between the performances of different branches? Finally, regardless of how one measures profitability, it’s important to consider the impact of risk. A sidebar looks at a recent survey that shows how banks are measuring profitability and using the results.
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Location, location, location – Is it time for a change of scenery?
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 505
Abstract: If a dealership has been in the same spot for years, chances are the neighborhood is changing — or already has changed. The address might still be an asset, or it might have become a liability. This article lists some factors to consider when evaluating the ideal locale for a dealership. There are also important considerations in regard to renting vs. owning dealership property.
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Keep your guard up at tax time
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 698
Abstract: This year, profits are down and losses up for many dealerships — maybe this is a year, one might reason, that Uncle Sam, and his IRS agents, might give dealerships a break. Forget about it: small business audits have been on the rise. But there are steps a dealer can take to satisfy an IRS auditor, including proving an intent to make a profit, even when losing money; keeping salaries reasonable; tracking cash sales; and keeping accurate records of previous years’ LIFO invoices.
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I will survive – Your manufacturer’s undoing needn’t be yours
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 690
Abstract: Those dealerships still standing at the approach of 2010 deserve congratulations. But the war is far from over. Surviving manufacturer upheaval is no easy task, but the odds improve with proactive planning and professional expertise. It may be possible that a sound business plan will convince a manufacturer not to pull the plug, but there are options to stay in business even if the franchise agreement is terminated. These include undergoing a brand change or sharing resources with another dealership. But, in the meantime, it’s important to assuage customer concerns.
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Use vehicle sales tax deduction to convert browsers into buyers
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1022
Abstract: As year end approaches, customer interest in the new sales tax deduction on new vehicle purchases could grow. Dealers report that the vehicle sales tax deduction is a particularly useful selling point for shoppers straddling the fence about new car purchases. But many shoppers are still unaware of the deduction, so it’s important to get the word out. This article lists some myths about the deduction that a dealer can dispel, while offering a specific example of potential savings. A sidebar describes a couple of other tax breaks that are presently available.
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The importance of goal setting
Fall 2008
Newsletter: Vital Signs
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 696
Abstract: In today’s fast paced and high-demand world, the daily tasks of clinical practice and administration can get lost in day-to-day activities. Long-term goals for the practice seem to collide with the task of balancing life obligations, which results in time constraints and crisis management. Setting goals is extremely important for individuals as well as practices. This article provides three steps to goal-setting success.
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Campaign contribution basics
Fall 2008
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 302
Abstract: With the campaign season in high gear, you may wish to financially support the candidates or party of your choice. Just be sure you adhere to campaign contribution rules. This article gives the details.
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Peace of mind at a difficult time – “Deathbed” estate planning strategies
Fall 2008
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 879
Abstract: Facing the reality that a loved one is dying is difficult for all concerned. But when the loved one’s legal and financial matters haven’t been taken care of, family members also face the challenge of quickly making critical financial decisions. This article provides “deathbed” estate planning strategies that can be implemented right away, such as making sure the loved one has executed a will and durable power of attorney for property, and working with an advisor to ensure the loved one’s estate tax liability is as low as possible. A sidebar tackles the issue of “no-contest” clauses in wills.
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Worth its weight in gold – Building long-term relationships with your employees
Fall 2008
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 541
Abstract: Low turnover is important to the success of most companies. Employees who’ve been with you for years are likely to be very proficient at their jobs. Plus, they’ve probably developed long-term relationships with your customers, suppliers and other stakeholders and understand how to keep them happy. Because high turnover increases recruitment costs and results in decreased productivity, creating an environment that fosters worker retention is a challenge worth taking on. This article offers some tips on how to do just that.
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Export markets: They’re yours for the taking
Fall 2008
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 560
Abstract: Developing a successful exporting business begins with a business plan similar to that of any new business undertaking, but with some special areas of emphasis. This article walks you through the process from setting your goals to deciding what products or services you want to offer (and where), and how to reach your target customers. It also offers several ideas for where to get expert advice on the process. (Updated 7/20/12)