The Practice Management Toolkit brought to you by the Practice Management Advisory Group of AGS

This area of our Web site is dedicated to helping AGS members navigate the world of geriatrics practice. Each available resource is a “tool” that you and your staff can use to help begin a geriatrics practice, or to improve the efficiency and management of an existing geriatrics practice.

This year, we've expanded a number of the tools to address not only the needs of geriatricians, but also the needs of advanced practice gerontological nurses and other advanced practitioners such as physicians assistants.

We add more resources over time, so check back often for new tools!

Select a tool below to learn more:

General Principles

What’s involved in starting a geriatrics practice in your organization? Consult this list of broad principles and suggested skills to make sure you’re willing and able to meet the challenge.

Practice Models and Types

Physicians often receive little or no training on how to set up and manage a medical practice. Review these different models of geriatrics practices to see which type is best suited to your career and individual situation. Check out the new information on expanding your practice by collaborating with advanced practitioners.

Health Care Accounting and Finance

Do you have a basic understanding of accounting and finance terminology and principles? This introduction to the subject will help you better understand financial reports and communicate better with business and finance people. Knowing basic accounting principles can help you develop business plans and make sound financial decisions for new projects or programs you are considering.

How to Choose and Evaluate a New Job Opportunity

Using a logical and thorough system to evaluate a new job opportunity will increase your chances of finding the position that is right for you. Set your priorities and learn some interviewing and negotiating tips.

Contracting Your Services

Many geriatricians contract their services to organizations that care for older people (eg, nursing homes). How do you get started, and what’s involved in contract agreements? Find out by reviewing the FAQs in this tool, along with a sample contract.

Strategic Planning and Market Analysis

Developing a specific plan, communicating it clearly, and gaining support are essential steps in any business venture, and geriatrics practice is no exception. Learn how to put together an effective strategic plan that considers your services and current and future resources. Use the SWOT Model to conduct a market analysis and further increase your chances of success.

Professional Liability Insurance

In today's litigious society, professional liability insurance is a must for physicians and advanced practitioners alike. Read this overview for help on selecting an insurance company, understanding the different types of coverage, some thoughts on how much coverage you need and associated costs.

Coding and Billing

Are you familiar with coding and billing practices? Review this primer for general guidelines as well as specific information to make sure you know how to bill and document for care provided as well as how to manage the complex systems of various services and payers. A list of ICD9 codes are included to help you get started quickly.

Welcome to Medicare

The "Welcome to Medicare" examination is a one-time initial preventive examination that is performed by a physician or a qualified non-physician provider. It is covered for all beneficiaries of Medicare Part B within their first 6 months of enrollment. Learn what must be included and about the various assessments involved.

Electronic Health Records

Electronic health records (EHR) are evolving and promise to improve the efficiency of documentation and the flow of health information. Investing in an EHR system can benefit patient care as well as the bottom line of a practice balance sheet. Learn about what EHR can offer so that you will know when and how to add this capability to your practice.

Additional Resources and Articles

Check this list of additional helpful Web sites and articles that can provide further assistance and information for physicians interested in geriatric practice.

Online CME Opportunities

Acknowledgments

Share with your colleagues by filling out a brief, anonymous questionnaire on your experience in geriatrics practice. We’ll compile your answers to provide a new tool that includes tips, practical advice, and other thoughts on geriatric practice from those that have led the way.