Independent foot and ankle surgeons are facing numerous challenges in today's healthcare environment, according to American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons President Chris Reeves, DPM.
Dr. Reeves told Becker's ASC review about three top challenges:
1. Avoiding physician burnout. "Like most specialties, today's foot and ankle surgeons are trying to balance patient care with managing EHRs, paperwork and reporting requirements. This is particularly challenging for independent practices because there is less administrative and clinical support than you would find in a larger system."
2. Remaining independent. "A rise in hospital consolidation in the healthcare industry has made it increasingly difficult for private practices to succeed. Independent foot and ankle surgeons are an important component of the healthcare system, but with the increase in provider [mergers and acquisitions], we are not always considered when remaining outside of large health systems."
3. Patient payment responsibility. "It's well-documented that healthcare costs continue to rise, as do patients' insurance premiums. This puts immense pressure on people making difficult decisions about their health, and also directly impacts independent foot and ankle surgeons. We are seeking to deliver the best possible care to patients with foot and ankle ailments, but when payers expect high out-of-pocket expenses from patients, it puts them in a tough position. I would encourage patients to work with their physician and insurer as early as possible to manage the process collaboratively, so that doctors can help patients recover quickly and efficiently."
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