Balancing Care and Business in Therapy Practices with Irene & Steven Gordon
Jan 21, 2025
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Join Steven Gordon, an experienced practitioner and multi-location private practice owner in New Hampshire, as he discusses the balancing act of care and business in therapy practices. The conversation tackles the challenges of declining reimbursements and the undervaluation of assistants. Discover the potential transformation of physical therapy through holistic techniques and the integration of technology. Steven emphasizes the importance of empowering therapists and fostering a supportive culture to enhance patient experiences and navigate modern healthcare complexities.
Advocating for the value of physical therapist assistants is essential to counteract their devaluation and ensure fair compensation in therapy practices.
Embracing virtual assistants and fostering a collaborative culture can enhance operational efficiency and improve patient care in evolving healthcare settings.
Deep dives
Challenges in Private Practice Ownership
Private practice owners face significant challenges, particularly with decreasing reimbursements and difficulties in hiring qualified staff. The contrast between outpatient physical therapy reimbursements and those in hospitals can result in financial strain, as hospitals receive significantly higher reimbursements. Additionally, the rising cost of patient copays poses a barrier for patients seeking physical therapy, making it hard to sustain a practice. These issues prompt owners to navigate a landscape where they must consider both the financial viability of their practices and the ability to attract qualified professionals amidst these challenges.
The Importance of Specialization
Physical therapists are increasingly positioning themselves as specialists within the healthcare system, with skills and expertise focused on musculoskeletal issues. This movement toward specialization, however, has come with a backlash, including reduced reimbursements and challenges in gaining recognition from other healthcare professionals. Moreover, the devaluation of roles, such as physical therapist assistants, threatens the integrity of the profession and undermines the education and skills they possess. Effectively advocating for their value is crucial for physical therapists to ensure fair compensation and recognition as essential healthcare providers.
Adaptation and Change in Practice
Embracing change is vital for physical therapy practices to thrive, especially as the healthcare landscape evolves. Owners must cultivate a collaborative environment where team members feel involved in decision-making and understand the rationale behind strategic shifts. The integration of virtual assistants into practices exemplifies a forward-thinking strategy to enhance operational efficiency and improve patient care. By fostering a culture that prioritizes communication and adaptability, practices can ensure longevity and effectiveness in meeting patient needs.
Building a Supportive Team Culture
Establishing a strong team culture is essential for attracting and retaining talent within physical therapy practices. Leaders who prioritize their employees' contributions and well-being tend to create a supportive work environment that enhances job satisfaction and reduces turnover rates. By hiring for passion and dedication, practices can build a cohesive team that is aligned with their vision and values. Open communication, regular feedback, and team-building activities further strengthen this culture, ensuring that employees feel valued and engaged in their roles.
Balancing Care and Business in Therapy Practices with Irene & Steven Gordon
In this episode, seasoned practitioners Irene and Steven Gordon share their journey as multi-location private practice owners in New Hampshire. Together, we delve into the challenges facing physical therapists, from declining reimbursements to recruitment struggles, and the potential transformation that could occur if therapists were fully empowered as primary musculoskeletal specialists.
Key Takeaways:
Address undervaluing assistants and the overemphasis on pharmaceuticals in healthcare.
Learn the importance of staying updated with insurance changes and fostering a therapist-led decision-making culture.
Explore overseas training, holistic techniques, and the integration of cutting-edge technology to improve patient care.
Discover how virtual front desks and assistants can enhance efficiency and allow therapists to focus on transformative patient care.
Attract passionate employees eager to embrace change and elevate patient experiences.
Virtual Rockstars specialize in helping support or replace all non-clinical roles. Book a free call to learn how a Virtual Rockstar can help scale your physical therapy practice.
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