For Immediate Release:
May 17, 2004

For Further Information:
Scott Kramer
(212) 308-1414 x329

Las Vegas, NV-An expert panel convened by the Practice Management Advisory Group of the American Geriatrics Society to analyze the economic state of geriatrics primary care practices has completed work on the Practice Management Toolkit, an online resource for clinicians interested in starting such a practice or streamlining an existing one.

With an eye toward the burgeoning aging population and the stagnant number of health care providers trained to attend to its needs, the Toolkit offers clinicians a detailed breakdown of the facets of initiating and sustaining a practice devoted to geriatric care, helping them navigate the minutiae of a Medicare-dependent caseload. Sections include General Principles, Practice Models and Types, Contracting your Services, Strategic Planning and Market Analysis, and Coding and Billing.

According to Stephen Phillips, MD, a member of the Practice Management Advisory Group, "The practice of geriatric medicine requires an understanding of strategic planning, market analysis, contracting for non-clinical services, documentation, coding and billing. The AGS has recognized and supported the development of this resource to promote survival within the field of geriatrics."

The Toolkit will be released in conjunction with a new online continuing medical education (CME) program based on the plenary session, "Geriatrics Practice: The Art of Survival," designed to help health care providers better understand and manage common threats to their geriatrics practice. It will be accessible via the AGS Web site as of May 17 and can be accessed by members of the Society who log onto My AGS Online at https://www.msecportal.org/go/msecportal/guest/homepage_guest.jsp?society=ags.

Founded in 1942, the American Geriatrics Society is a nationwide, not-for-profit association of geriatrics health care professionals dedicated to improving the health, independence and quality of life of all older people. The Society supports this mission through activities in clinical practice, professional and public education, research and public policy. With an active membership of over 6,700 health care professionals, the Society has become a pivotal force in shaping attitudes, policies and practices in geriatric medicine.