Management service organizations can be beneficial for independent spine and orthopedic groups if leaders are thoughtful about who they partner with, Ezriel Kornel, MD, said.
Dr. Kornel, who joined Carmel, N.Y.-based Somers Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Group in September, discussed the practice's partnership with Health Plus Management and his advice for other independent groups.
Question: Somers has a relationship with Health Plus Management. Can you talk about how that’s benefited your practice?
Dr. Ezriel Kornel: Health Plus Management reached out to me, and I've had a very positive experience with them. Their management is extremely responsive. Of course, there have been some growing pains as they take over, particularly for staff who were accustomed to certain processes, and with the implementation of a new EMR system. But the management team has been excellent, and they've addressed any concerns I've had promptly. Health Plus Management and Somers Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Group share a unified commitment to providing a best-in-class patient experience while expanding services and the practice’s reach within the region and beyond. With their support, Somers can focus on core strengths, ensuring exceptional clinical outcomes. Overall, I’ve been very pleased so far.
Q: Having worked in private practice throughout your career, how has your experience with that changed over the years?
EK: In the past, we ran our own practices and made decisions independently, including which insurance plans to accept. These days, it's nearly impossible for a physician to handle those business aspects alone. Physicians really need a team of professionals who understand the business side of healthcare. It’s difficult for most physicians to manage that side unless they decide to shift their focus and become businessmen. While that's certainly an option, most doctors enter the field to practice medicine, not run a business.
In today's environment, it's essential to work with a professional organization that can negotiate with insurance companies, manage malpractice rates, and ensure the practice remains profitable. Health Plus Management has been instrumental in allowing physicians like myself to maintain clinical autonomy while also improving the overall quality of life for doctors. This collaboration guarantees positive outcomes for all stakeholders: physicians retain their independence, patients receive comprehensive and compassionate care and payers see high-quality, cost-effective treatments in the musculoskeletal field.
Q: What advice would you give to independent groups who are hesitant about partnering with a management services organization?
EK: It's crucial to thoroughly vet any management organization. Take the time to interview them and evaluate their prior experience and vision for your group. Do they have a plan to help your practice grow, or are they just interested in maintaining the status quo and collecting revenue? You need to partner with a management team that’s committed to expansion, which is something I believe Somers and Health Plus have achieved. They understand that growth is essential, and remaining static is not an option. This partnership allows us to focus on our clinical strengths, while Health Plus Management provides the strategic and operational support needed to grow and thrive.