NP Business Matters Podcast: Recent Episodes
Barbara C. Phillips, NP, FAANP
Business For Nurse Practitioners? Yes! The NP Business Matters Podcast is all about the business of being an NP. From getting a job to starting your practice, from discovering your leadership potential to everything else in-between, it's all fair game. Grab a cup of coffee and join Barbara C Phillips, NP, FAANP, the NP Business Coach, and her guest for an adventure. Discover what's possible…
As nurse practitioners (NPs), we often find ourselves navigating a complex relationship with collaborating physicians. While collaboration is essential for optimal patient care, the requirement for formal collaboration agreements in some states has sparked debate within our profession.
Find us on Social:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NursePractitionerBusiness
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/barbaracphillips
- YouTube: https://YouTube.com/NPBusiness
When thinking about business, the vast majority of nurses and nurse practitioners start with the idea of doing something that utilizes the professional skills they have developed. That makes sense, you spend years getting your education and developing your skills and talents, why not use them?
And use them you can...though perhaps in different ways.
On this episode of the NP Business Matters podcast, have a chat with Sharon Burch. Her history in nursing is long and varied, but it's always had a more holistic bent to it. Over the years of creating many businesses, she has honed those skills to create the Liberated Nurse Entrepreneur programs.
Today, we are talking about the Liberated Nurse Entrepreneurs Summit. She has brought together 20 nurse entrepreneurs (including myself) to talk about business.
I invite you to listen or watch, learn more about the summit, and then join us June 23-28, 2024 to listen to these two entrepreneurs. You may just get an idea or two to implement into your own practice or find yourself called to pivot. Either way, it's a wonderful opportunity to talk and learn business.
Show Notes: https://npbusiness.org/92
Find us on Social:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NursePractitionerBusiness
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/barbaracphillips
- YouTube: https://YouTube.com/NPBusiness
HIPAA violations don't just happen to large corporations and small practices are being increasingly evaluated for breaches.
Here are the 5 most common violations experienced by small practices and their consequence.
Full show notes --> NPBusiness.org/91
Don't miss the upcoming webinar on May 16, 2024 on Privacy Matters.
Learn more at NPBusiness.org/privacymatters
Find us on Social:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NursePractitionerBusiness
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/barbaracphillips
- YouTube: https://YouTube.com/NPBusiness
Have you ever wondered what goes on side the NPBO Private Community? Let's take a look.
Show notes at NPBusiness.org/90
Don't miss the upcoming webinar on May 16, 2024 on Privacy Matters.
Learn more at NPBusiness.org/privacymatters
Find us on Social:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NursePractitionerBusiness
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/barbaracphillips
- YouTube: https://YouTube.com/NPBusiness
We all want to understand coding better, right.
In this episode, I talk with Alicia Scott, CPC, CPC-I, CRC about how better coding helps us and our businesses.
Check it out, and the show notes and links at https://NPBusiness.org/89
Find us on Social:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NursePractitionerBusiness
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/barbaracphillips
- YouTube: https://YouTube.com/NPBusiness
Do you have a fair amount of outstanding patient balances and difficulties collecting?
Well, you’re not alone. It’s common, particularly in small practices, to struggle with collecting money from patients.
Most patients never blink an eye when asked for their co-pay, deductible, or other balances. They do everything they can to pay on time and in full.
But there seem to be a few who just don’t want to pay… ever.
It’s the 80/20 rule at work… 80% (or more) pay every time, but 20% of patients (or fewer) kick and scream when asked to tap their card or write a check.
So what's an NP to do?
Show notes at https://npbusiness.org/88
Don't miss the upcoming webinar on May 16, 2024 on Privacy Matters.
Learn more at NPBusiness.org/privacymatters
Find us on Social:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NursePractitionerBusiness
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/barbaracphillips
- YouTube: https://YouTube.com/NPBusiness
Lots of questions have been coming my way about the CTA and filing your Beneficial Ownership Information. Who is this for, why, when and what.
I recorded this originally as a video which you can see on our blog or on our YouTube Channel.
Bottom line is if you have a business...this is for you.
https://npbusiness.org/87
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- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NursePractitionerBusiness
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/barbaracphillips
- YouTube: https://YouTube.com/NPBusiness
One of the few things we want to face in our business is that employees will steal from the practice. Afterall, we are there to provide a service to the community, so who would steal?
On average, practices that experience this, lose approximately $450,000 a year!
In this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, we'll talk about what is going on, who is doing it, and things you can to to protect your business. We'll close with some suggestions on what to do when it happens to you. Plus we share real examples of practices that have been there.
Resources at https://NPBusiness.org/86.
Share your story with the community.
Don't miss the upcoming webinar on May 16, 2024 on Privacy Matters.
Learn more at NPBusiness.org/privacymatters
Find us on Social:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NursePractitionerBusiness
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/barbaracphillips
- YouTube: https://YouTube.com/NPBusiness
Everyone, including healthcare workers, are targets for fraudsters. Learn tactics scammers use and gain the knowledge to protect yourself, your license, and your practice. Don’t be a victim.
Stop by https://npbusiness.org/85 and share your story, plus get links to the resources mentioned in the podcast.
Don't miss the upcoming webinar on May 16, 2024 on Privacy Matters.
Learn more at NPBusiness.org/privacymatters
Find us on Social:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NursePractitionerBusiness
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/barbaracphillips
- YouTube: https://YouTube.com/NPBusiness
Collaboration Issues continue to plague Nurse Practitioners. How can you avoid some of the problems, pitfalls, and issues? Listen to learn more.
https://NPBusiness.org/84 for all the resources and leave your comment!
Don't miss the upcoming webinar on May 16, 2024 on Privacy Matters.
Learn more at NPBusiness.org/privacymatters
Find us on Social:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NursePractitionerBusiness
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/barbaracphillips
- YouTube: https://YouTube.com/NPBusiness
Have you ever wondered what success tips nurse practitioner business owners would share with you? Well, here they are.
I recently asked Nurse Practitioner business owners to share some of their top success tips for those who are thinking about starting and growing their own practices. So in this episode of the NP Business Matters podcast, I blend their tips with several of my own.
Visit the show notes at NPBusiness.org/83 for links to all the resources mentioned.
Don't miss the upcoming webinar on May 16, 2024 on Privacy Matters.
Learn more at NPBusiness.org/privacymatters
Find us on Social:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NursePractitionerBusiness
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/barbaracphillips
- YouTube: https://YouTube.com/NPBusiness
Purchasing a practice is one way in which nurse practitioners and other clinicians will start a practice. However, unless you approach it with eyes wide open and the appropriate professionals at your side, you may find it was not the wisest of choices for you.
In episode #82 of the NP Business Matters podcast, I discuss 12+ key considerations worth paying attention to when you are considering purchasing a practice that is for sale, as well as what to consider when are asked to take over or inherit a practice.
You can get a copy of this checklist and leave your comments by visiting the show notes @ https://npbusiness.org/82
Don't miss the upcoming webinar on May 16, 2024 on Privacy Matters.
Learn more at NPBusiness.org/privacymatters
Find us on Social:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NursePractitionerBusiness
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/barbaracphillips
- YouTube: https://YouTube.com/NPBusiness
If you are not sure if you are an independent contractor or not, don't worry, you are not alone.
Employment laws are not always clear, and as I examine both the IRS 20-point checklist as well as the ABC rules which should simplify things, you'll see that for Nurse Practitioners, it's full of grayness.
Here's what to do next:
- Share this important episode with your colleagues
- Be sure and head over to https://npbusiness.org/81 for the full show notes, resources, and visuals.
- Once on the blog, share your story and what's going on in your location.
https://NPBusiness.org/81
The healthcare landscape is evolving, with nurse practitioners (NPs) pioneering a diverse range of practice models, from insurance-billing entities to cash-only ventures. Amid these choices, a pivotal question emerges: What's the significance of a corporate National Provider Identifier (NPI-2) for NPs, irrespective of their billing approach?
Show Notes: https://npbusiness.org/80
Just what is analysis paralysis and how can it sabotage your practice startup?
Analysis paralysis refers to the state of overthinking, and excessive analysis to the point where moving forward is quite difficult. The choices and decisions can be endless, and in the end, we are fearful of being wrong in our choices.
This is not something that affects only Nurse Practitioners - it can affect all humans. We've been educated and trained to be "right" since we were young children. And certainly, our work and education have only added to that.
But what can you do when it stops you cold in your tracks?
That's the topic of Episode #79 of the NP Business Matters Podcast. Listen and then head over to https://npbusiness.org/79 and share your comments and experience with us.
Just thinking about getting audited puts some practice owners in a state of panic.
- Why would someone audit me?
- What could they be looking for?
- What if they find something?
- What if I made a mistake?
- What could happen to my practice?
- How can I prepare for an audit?
These might be just some of the thoughts that worry them.
So… best to meet the medical audit monster head-on and look it squarely in the eye.
Because things we're not familiar with tend to intimidate and scare us.
But, once we have even a basic understanding, what once was scary no longer is.
So, let’s talk about “audits.”
Follow along on our blog at https://npbusiness.org/77
Want to sign up for the webinar? You can do so no later than July 20, 2023 at https://npbusiness.org/audit.
Professional liability insurance, also known as malpractice insurance, is a crucial component of protecting nurse practitioners (NPs) in their practice. Whether you're a business owner or employed by someone else, having your own policy is essential. Even if your employer provides coverage, it's important to evaluate the terms as it often prioritizes the interests of the business.
In this episode (#77) of the NP Business Matters podcast, we discuss the need for NPs to have their own insurance to ensure personal protection and the ability to choose their own attorney in case of a claim.
One of the growing concerns regarding professional liability insurance is the rising cost. With more NPs practicing autonomously and an increasing number of malpractice lawsuits, insurance premiums have seen a significant increase.
Complete show notes at https://npbusiness.org/77
Job Hunting Dos and Don'ts: Essential Advice for New Graduate (and Seasoned) NPs
It's not infrequent that I receive questions from new and recent grads about starting a practice because they cannot find a job and they want and need to work. While I also get those questions from seasoned NPs, it's more concerning from those with little to no experience.
In this episode of the podcast, I speak with Renee Dahring, APRN, FNP, FAANP, the owner of NPCareerCoach.com about what NPs can do to better their chances of finding a position that suits them.
https://npbusiness.org/76
You do indeed make a difference! Happy Nurses Month!
The advertisements sound great to patients. Providers often think Medicare Part C, or Advantage plans are just like Medicare. But they are not. Listen in to learn more as Barbara Phillips asks several questions of reimbursement expert, Don Self.
The Video interview is also available on our blog (link below) and on the @NPBusiness YouTube channel.
https://npbusiness.org/75
You do indeed make a difference! Happy Nurses Month!
First of all, Happy Nurses Month. Make no mistake, you do indeed make a difference for us all. As a veteran nurse, I'm sharing my thoughts. Take and listen, and then share your thoughts at NPBusiness.ORG/74
You do indeed make a difference! Happy Nurses Month!
In this episode of the podcast, Don Self and I discuss out-of-network billing including:
- The differences between in-network and out-of-network billing, as well as the advantages and disadvantages for providers and patients.
- The importance of understanding the patient's insurance policy, setting fees accordingly, and choosing whether to file the claim as assigned or not assigned.
- The patient's right to waive their insurance and pay cash, and the importance of having patients sign a waiver if they elect not to use their insurance.
- And more!
You'll find resources, the video, and more at NPBusiness.org/73
Do you ever get requests to provide medical treatment for friends, family, or staff? Many providers get that on a regular basis, in the office, and at social and sports events. But the question is, should you?
This episode of the NP Business Matters podcast was inspired by an NPBO™ Member who was looking for a policy on treating staff in her practice. This question comes up not infrequently on social media as well.
The answer to this question is not easy and one needs to take into consideration the ethical and legal implications of doing so.
https://npbusiness.org/72
Owning a nurse practitioner practice can be both rewarding and challenging. While providing high-quality care to patients is always the top priority, increasing revenue is also essential to keep the practice running smoothly. For nurse practitioner practice owners who are looking to boost their income, there are several strategies they can implement to achieve their goals. Whether it's increasing Relative Value Units (RVUs), expanding services, improving patient retention, or becoming more efficient at coding, and collections, there are many ways to maximize revenue and grow the practice.
And if you catch this before March 16th, be sure and catch our upcoming webinar on "Answering Your Reimbursement Questions". https://npbusiness.org/webinars
Show Notes @ NPBusiness.org/71
Looking for the perfect CPA for your nurse practitioner practice?
This episode of the NP Business Matters podcast gives you tips and advice on finding the right professional to help you navigate the complex financial landscape of your practice, from choosing the right business structure to ensuring your taxes are filed correctly.
Learn what to consider when selecting a CPA, including their experience working with medical practices, certifications, references, fees, and more.
Discover what questions to ask during your initial consultation to determine if the CPA is a good fit for your needs, and how to make sure your financial information is secure.
Your CPA is your partner in the financial health of your practice, so take the time to find the perfect fit.
https://NPBusiness.org/70
The whole idea of having non-participating provider status with Medicare is because it looks like you will not lose as much in revenue. But let's look more closely at this from the perspective of the Nurse Practitioner.
Show Notes & Video: https://npbusiness.org/69
When it comes to medical equipment, the cost is a major factor to consider. Used medical equipment can be an excellent option for nurse practitioners just getting started in their own practice as well as established practice owners.
In this episode, I talk about the upside of purchasing used medical equipment, what to look for and where you might find it.
Show notes @ npbusiness.org/68
California passed a law, AB-890, effective January 1, 2023, giving NPs in their state more autonomy than they previously enjoyed. It’s being implemented in a stepwise fashion. And like many laws, it’s rather confusing for everyone involved.
On January 12, 2022, NPBO was lucky enough to host a webinar with Melanie Balestra who is a nurse practitioner and an attorney in California, where she spent nearly 2 hours answering questions.
This is that recording.
To find all the resources mentioned as well as contact information for Melanie, please visit https://npbusiness.org/ab-890.
You'll also find the video recording posted in the show notes as well.
Not our usual topic of discussion, but an important one never-the-less - self-publishing. Why? I've been advised for years that having your own book was something that all business owners should do, that it helps establish you as an expert in your field, and this idea is just as true for clinicians as it is with other types of business owners.
Since this is not my area of expertise, allow me to introduce you to my guest Brandy Agerbeck.
Brandy is a visual thinking pioneer who demystified drawing so you can shush your inner critic, think and communicate clearly, and erase overwhelm.
In this podcast (Episode #66) you'll hear why I'm talking with Brandy, and you'll get to hear her put me on the hot seat about writing a book. Plus you'll get plenty of ideas on how to get started.
Show notes/blog post - https://npbusiness.org/66
YouTube - https://youtu.be/bxEqpLwnaqU
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Opting out of Medicare has caused a lot of confusion for NPs and other providers. Not understanding what it means can lead to problems & fines.
In this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast (Episode #65) I address:
- The Social Security Act and how that impacts providers.
- When you can bill Medicare and when you don't have to.
- What it means by opting out of Medicare.
- Can you just refuse to see Medicare recipients?
- Can I just have them sign something that says they understand I don't bill Medicare?
- I've never had a Medicare provider number, can I just not credential with them?
Resources and Links: NPBusiness.org/65
Is it a recession? A slow down? Something else? Regardless, NPs need to understand how to protect their practices and even thrive.
The news is quite unsettling these days on many fronts and there is a lot of talk in healthcare about the economy and if, when, and how it will impact healthcare and healthcare practices.
Show notes:
https://npbusiness.org/recession
It’s not uncommon that NPs approach business with the idea that they can bootstrap their business. Indeed, if you do an internet search, you’ll find tons of articles on how to bootstrap your business. Indeed, there are many companies that did their startup this way. However, it just means they did not go after investors. They still have some startup capital.
In episode #62 of the NP Business Matters podcast, we talk about the idea of bootstrapping and what it really means. We'll also take a look at a minimal practice startup from the perspective of a mobile practice of seeing patients in their homes, ALF, or SNFs.
Ready? Let's get to it!
There are several different kinds of policies and areas of coverage when it comes to business insurance. For practice owners, this can get a bit confusing.
In this episode #62 of the NP Business Matters Podcast, I'm talking about the different kinds of insurance, why you might want to have them, and where to find them. I'll also talk briefly about professional liability insurance.
https://npbusiness.org/businessinsurance
In this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, I talk about Better Billing Habits
If you are billing third-party payers, chances are you’ve run into a glitch or two. It might be time to take a look at your process, which will not only help you streamline what you are doing but just might reduce some of the problems. Let us know on the show notes at https://NPBusiness.org/betterbilling
NursePractitionerBusiness, #NPBusiness, #NPBO, #NoNPLeftBehind, #NPOwnedPractice #MedicalBilling
In this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, I talk about the different ways you can fund your Nurse Practitioner practice.
And while it was all about funding for start-up, I do mention AR funding, which is more of a funding source when you are already in business (oops!).
Show notes on our blog at https://NPBusiness.org/funding
Upcoming Webinars: npbusiness.org/webinars
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Starting a practice is not an easy thing to do, nor is it a linear process. There are several moving parts, Many things are happening all at once and they are often interdependent on one another. That's where a framework comes in.
Show notes & video version:
https://NPBusiness.ORG/framework
Workshop:
https://NPBusiness.ORG/workshops
There are 6 habits that practice owners have, often for the sake of time, that will hurt their practices. It's widely known that most businesses fail because of poor cash flow. These 6 habits directly contribute to negatively impacting your practices' financial health.
Show notes:
https://npbusiness.org/habitsthathurt
NPBO™ Workshops:
https://npbusiness.org/workshopts
Business structures sometimes confuse new business owners, including nurse practitioners. This video gives an overview of what to consider, and what in my opinion, to avoid.
The blog post and show. notes are here: https://npbusiness.org/businessstructure
Cost per patient and payer mix are among the top numbers you need to track when we talk about knowing your numbers. It can make the difference between a practice that is financially solvent and one that is struggling.
When I asked a group of NPs, they did not know the answer.
It does not matter what kind of practice you have, you must understand your expenses - including what it cost you to see a patient, vs what you are getting paid to see that patient. Obviously, if you are getting paid less than what it cost you, there is a problem.
You can listen, and if you choose, also watch this on our blog.
So do you know these numbers?
https://NPBusiness.org/costperpatient
Have you ever wondered if your license was at risk? Nurse practitioners find their licenses, NPI's numbers, and ability to write prescriptions are valuable to many who do not have the protection of our licenses in their hearts. They are often more concerned with their own profits and meeting their needs.
Unfortunately, this happens way to often.
Listen in to this week's podcast and hear some of the situations, including myself, NPs have found themselves in.
Episode and show notes at https://npbusiness.org/licenseatrisk
Nurse Practitioners often ask in our Facebook group, what does it cost to start a practice? As you might expect, the answers that group members give are all over the board.
The question is essentially impossible to answer without further information. There are a lot of variables involved.
- What kind of practice?
- Where is it located?
- What is the size of the practice?
And that's just to start with.
In order to accurately estimate your startup cost, and ultimately, your operating cost, you are going to have to do some research and planning.
In this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, I discuss many of the variables, though it's impossible to cover them all. However, you'll get a good idea of where to start, and then you can go from there.
At the end of the podcast, I also make an exciting announcement, so you don't want to miss it!
https://npbusiness.org/startupcost
You want to start a business as a nurse or nurse practitioner and yet, you don't want to be in clinical practice. What should you do?
In this episode of the NP Business Matters podcast, I talk about things you can do that are other than clinical practice. On the other hand, if you are interested in clinical business ideas, make sure you listen to episode #51.
Links and more @
https:npbusiness.org/business ideas
Do you ever find yourself trying to decide what kind of business you want to start? You are not alone in that. It's a question many nurses and NPs ask themselves.
In this episode and the next of the NP Business Matters podcast, I'm discussing and giving you a lot of ideas. Today we'll discuss clinical business ideas, and in the next episode of the podcast, I'll cover non-clinical ideas.
Show notes: https://npbusiness.org/clinicalideas
A few weeks ago I wrote a blog about creating a fee schedule for your practice. (linked below). It generated a lot of questions, and frankly some confusion. This video is to help clarify that article, and do give you a demo on just one way you can create your own practice's fee schedule.
Shownotes: https://npbusiness.org/revisiting-the-fee-schedule
Blog Article: 3 Simple Strategies to Set Your Fee Schedule - https://npbusiness.org/fee-schedule/
Visit us!
Blog: NPBusiness.ORG - All about the business of being a nurse practitioner
Courses on practice startup, billing, and more: https://ClinicianBusinessInstitute.com
Meet Latrina Walden. She is a nurse practitioner, educator, business owner, and former healthcare administrator. a healthcare administrator turned nurse practitioner. Her approach to business and education is different in that she came to nursing from that background of being a healthcare administrator is a highly regulated and understaffed area of healthcare.
Listen in to this episode to hear her words of wisdom for those who seek to start their businesses. Or if you prefer, you can catch this episode on YouTube as well.
You can also find this episode on our blog, where you can leave a comment and join in on the conversation.
A solid financial policy will do wonders for your practice. It will guide you and your staff as well as your patients on how to do business with your practice. It can help stabilize your cash flow. And it can keep you in compliance.
In this episode of the NP Business Matters podcast Barbara talk's about:
- Why this is one of the very first policies a practice needs to create.
- The difference between policies and procedures.
- Why you don't need to start with a blank page and what you can do instead.
- The importance of customizing the policy to your practice.
- Questions you want to ask before you start to create your policy.
In addition, she takes several side steps with additional information you need to successfully run your own practice.
This is an information-packed episode and you will likely want to listen to this episode more than once, and take notes along the way.
And if you are already an NPBO™ Member, you'll find a download of all the questions covered in the billing and financial section of your Member's portal.
Show notes for this episode are at https://npbusiness.org/financialpolicy
Today I’m talking about the pros and cons of taking insurance vs having a cash-only practice.
While this is just an overview, the goal is to give you some things to think about. One is not inherently better than the other.
This is a question that comes up frequently in our FB group and many of the answers lack the depth needed to make an informed decision. Other questions expose some of the struggles and unmet expectations of newer practice owners. Like many beliefs (insurance is all bad, cash is all good) there are pros and cons, myths and misconceptions on both sides of the aisle.
Do you have a preference? Which of these practice models has worked out best for you? What problems have you found with one or the other? I look forward to hearing your thoughts and questions about this episode on the show notes.
https:npbusiness.org/insurancevscash
What is it like to own your own practice in rural Idaho?
Meet Katy Searle, FNP-BC. She practices primary care and rheumatology in a town of just over 400 people. The successful practice she has built has brought people from all around.
But, it wasn't always this way. And in fact, when she wanted to purchase the practice from the owners that saw it as a losing proposition, they all but laughed in her face.
However, she rose up and met the challenge!
Listen in as we talk more about challenges, obstacles, getting healthy and so much more.
https:/npbusiness.org/rural-idaho
Functional Medicine practices are very popular among nurse practitioners. In today's episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, I speak with Erin Bagshaw, NP, who believes the future of primary care is functional medicine.
Erin's practice was established in 2004 and was the first NP-owned primary care practice in the Washington, DC area. She discusses:
- the growth and evolution of her practice
- bringing in specialties
- transitioning from an insurance-based practice to a fee-for-service practice
- doing functional medicine the right way.
As a bonus, we have a short discussion of things to ask, especially if a new graduate, during a job interview.
https://npbusiness.org/functional-medicine
Every business needs to address a problem, and that is just what Ellen Harris, FNP did when she created the nation's first NP Hospitalist group.
More at https:/NPBusiness.org/hospitalist
Nurse Coaching is a very popular topic for both nurses and advanced practice nurses. Many Nurse Practitioners look forward to incorporating these skills into their existing practice, while others look to build a business around nurse coaching.
On this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, we speak with Lyn McCright, RN, APRN, MPH, AHN-BC, HWNC-BC, and Teresa Walding, RN, BSN, NC-BC from Advancing Nurse Coaching.
One of the principles that are foundational in the work they do and teach is resilience - for both the nurse coach and the client.
Listen in, and then check head over to the show notes for more episodes on coaching, as well as the resources they have shared with us all. https://npbusiness.org/nursecoaching
Not many people want to talk about business planning, and yet it's crucial! We already know the majority of businesses fail. A business plan, however, can give you a leg up and help put you on the path of business success.
Visit npbusiness.org/bizplan for the show notes and all the resources I talk about and more.
Choosing which EHR to invest in is a big decision.
It cost money in terms of dollars as well as the time it takes to master the software. It can affect your practice and your workload. And if you don’t like the one you started with, it’s not exactly a walk in the park to switch to another one.
In this episode of the NP Business Matters podcast, I talk about the criteria the Institute of Medicine published for EHRs. In addition, I talk about CMS and the 21st Century Cures Act Final Rules.
Plus we'll discuss how you can create your own criteria when choosing the best EHR for your practice.
You'll find the show notes and lists on the show notes.
Not a day goes by that I don’t hear from a nurse practitioner who wants to start a practice on weight loss. Obviously there is a great need for this and many ways to to approach this.
Meet Karli Burridge, PA-C, MMS, FOMA who has a passion for obesity management. She talks about the complexity of obesity and how it affects almost every system of the body. Karlie has started programs within other practices and hospital services.
Whether you want to add more obesity management to your practice, or look at this as a specialty practice, you’ll want to listen, and look at these and other resources.
Show notes, resources - https://npbusiness.org/obesity-management/
Nurse Practitioners are pretty excited at the aspect of having their own practice in that’s true more so today than ever before especially since more states are opening up to full practice authority.
Sometimes what happens though, Is in our excitement we tend to rush into things. And this is where we run into trouble. So on today’s podcast I’d like to go over some of the most common mistakes that I see with clinicians starting up their own practice.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Unseasoned clinicians starting a practice.
- Not having a clear picture of what you are doing, what you are offering.
- Ignoring both practice and business rules and regulations.
- Failure to fully understand scope of practice.
- Misinformation about FPA and practicing across state lines.
- Collaboration – understanding what it is and why as well as the rules in your state. Also, not having a written agreement and more than one CP, is a big mistakes.
- Thinking you don’t need a business plan.
- Financial illiteracy – not understanding the finances – cost, resources, revenues, statements and more.
- Waiting to market the practice.
- Not starting your credentialing early enough
Find the show notes at https://npbusiness.org/are-you-making-these-common-mistakes/
Nurses, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare providers are people first. And we sometimes come with the same stories that we see in our patients. Some of them are great, and others... not so much.
As healthcare providers, as business owners, we, for the most part, know we are more effective when we are at our best. Unfortunately, the stressors of life as well as the immense stress that is put on us all can create unhealthy behaviors.
Choosing Wellness is about overcoming some of those behaviors. It's about taking back our power.
To me, choosing wellness is not only about being healthier, happier and wiser, but it's also about being a more effective clinician and a more successful business owner.
I was honored to speak once again with Eileen O'Grady about this very important book containing her personal narrative that can impact every one of us, as well as how we interact with our patients.
https://npbusiness.org/choosewellness/
Lots of nurse practitioners in Michigan have asked about starting a business in their own practice. Unfortunately, according to the law, APNs cannot open their own practices.
The reasoning behind this has been confusing for many NPs. In this episode of the NP Business Matters podcast, we talk with Dr. Denise Hershey, PhD, FNP-BC, the current president of the Michigan Council of Nurse Practitioners about this issue and other issues affecting NP practice in Michigan.
https://npbusiness.org/micnp
Today I’m talking about closing your nurse practitioner practice. Perhaps that sounds weird since I’m the one that teaches how to start a practice, get it operating smoothly, and then growing the practice.
However, there are a lot of reasons someone may want or need to close a practice, which I’ll mention in a bit. And it is a question we have received multiple times, so it’s time to talk about it more. It can be a complex subject and of course, have many variables. But let’s take a look at it from a 10K foot level.
Show notes at https://npbusiness.org/close/
Do you, does your staff, and do your patients understand these common insurance terms - deductibles, co-pay, and co-insurance? I bet you would tell me not everyone. Chances are most of the people working in or visiting healthcare practices need a bit of a primer on these important terms, what they mean, and how they can impact your practice.
In this new series on Getting Paid, I want to focus on just that, how we get paid. Episode #34 of the NP Business Matters podcast is going to talk about three terms that cause any practice that takes insurance a bit of indigestion!
Deductibles, Co-Pays & Co-Insurance!
In this episode, we'll define the terms, talk about some practice scenarios, and what we can do to begin to implement some best practices.
You'll find the resources linked on the show notes at NPBusiness.org
In September 2019, The Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General and law enforcement announced they were able to take down 35 individuals for participation in healthcare fraud schemes involving $2.1 Billion in losses.
We've almost come to expect news like this.
In the above example, OIG was targeting genetic testing fraud schemes. They are taking place nationwide.
Unfortunately, NPs can find themselves involved in these situations. What can we do?
You'll find the resources and links at NPBusiness.org/fraud
In this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, we talk about the opportunities for nurse practitioners in corrections from being an employee, an independent contractor, a leader, and an entrepreneur.
Welcome back to our guest Renee Dahring, APRN, FNP, FAANP. You may be familiar with Renee, (aka the NP Career Coach) who was featured on episode #14 when we talked about finding the perfect job.
In addition to her work with NPs on careers, and her work with the Minnesota NP Coalition, she has spent the bulk of her clinical career in corrections both as an employee and as an independent contractor.
We talk about what it's like, and about all the opportunities there is for NPs in corrections...beyond the clinical work.
We'd love to hear your feedback! Please visit the blog and take advantage of the resources Renee has shared with us.
https://npbusiness.org/renee-dahring-fnp-on-correctional-healthcare
There are a lot of obstacles to starting a practice, but how would you react if you were harassed by state officials for starting a practice? How much would you put up with?
Meet Carl Smith and Quentin Caswell, nurse practitioners with a private practice in Joplin, MO. They have been through several collaborating physicians while dealing with harassment from the medical board in MO in the early years of their practice.
Now open 9 years, things have settled down and their practice is thriving.
What lessons will you pick up in this episode of the NP Business Matters podcast?
Health and wellness coaching is a popular topic among nurses, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals. It's likely that you have considered it as well.
What does it take to be a coach? Some say our nursing degrees are enough? But is it?
Listen in as we discuss these questions and more on this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast.
Are you a bit stressed out these days? Many NPs and other clinicians are. And if you're an entrepreneur, chances are you can stack that on top of being a clinician.
Meet Dr. Mimi Secor, DNP, FNP-BC, FAANP, FAAN. While she is known for many things - a speaker, mentor, women's health educator, and she is also now focusing her efforts on physical health and fitness.
In today's episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, we talk about self-care and even the little things you can do to take care of yourself.
Do you know what the 1% Rule is? Take a listen to learn more and to find out how you can get a copy of Debut A New You!Click here for show notes and resources...
What can a leadership program do for you? A lot!
Meet nurse practitioner, Dr. Kimberly Hardy, as she talks about being a Duke-Johnson & Johnson Nurse Leadership Fellow, and her own personal and professional growth following completion of that program. We talk about:
- Imposter Syndrome
- Resilience
- Believing in one's self
- Holistic Health
- Balance
- Perfection
- and more
Visit the show notes
One of the hardest things I hear is from a nurse or nurse practitioner who has worked hard to open their business and then they say they don't have patients or clients.
In this episode of the NP Business Matters podcast, I'm talking about marketing. Ideally, the whole idea about marketing and who you are marketing to should start with the business plan.
Unfortunately, I hear too often from new practices that open and they have no patients. Even established practices, the ones that started off slow, still suffer from a lack of patients.
One of the issues is to really identify what the service is and who the ideal patient/client/customer is for your business.
I discuss this and more in Episode #27 of the NP Business Matters Podcast.
In this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, I talk with Patricia Wells, FNP about her own evolution as a nurse practitioner and a business owner.
Her own story is a bit different. Most NPs look to using their knowledge to open a private practice. While that was Patricia's initial thought, that was not the road she took.
While working on her business plan to start that practice, another opportunity landed in her lap. She looked at it, researched and then planned it out.
But there was also another issue she found out while planning for a practice. Practice restrictions in her state would have actually prevented her from starting the kind of practice she wanted, she decided to do something about that as well.
Listen in for ideas, inspiration, and become inspired.
Head over to the snow notes for links and contact information @ NPBusiness
Meet Dr. Angie Golden, DNP, FAANP. Angie is the owner of the NP Obesity Treatment Clinic in Arizona, the author of clinical and non-clinical books, a speaker, an educator, and has been one of our national NP leaders.
Today we are talking about the journey through business, leadership, and writing. She shares so many ideas in how she thinks about different things, I'm confident you'll pick up some ideas as you begin your own journey.
My favorite that I've adapted is "why not you?"
NP Business Matters podcast with Angie Golden
In this episode of the NP Business Matters podcast, I had the honor to talk with Nurse Barb Dehn (aka NurseBarb.com). A seasoned business owner, she has lots of gems to share. One of those is how we create a message, and how we communicate that message using the media.
This is crucial for business owners. If your ideal patient or client cannot hear your message, they likely will not visit your business. You'll want to listen to this important episode.
Show Notes for Nurse Barb Dehn on business, Media, and Your Message
A CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) Waiver simply allows you to do point of care (POC) testing in your practice. That POC testing must be done with tests that have received the designation of being CLIA Waived.
A CLIA Waiver has nothing to do with drawing blood or collecting specimens to send to the lab. It has nothing to do with administering vaccines, medication or other procedures in your office.
Listen in as I talk about:
- Which test are CLIA Waived
- How to obtain a CLIA Waiver
- Looking up CPT codes for waived tests
- Finding reimbursement on tests
- Obtaining waived test and more.
Make sure you listen in to the podcast for the details and then head over to the blog to get access to the resources.
In this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, I talk with Dr. Deborah Karas, nurse practitioner.
Most commonly when people hear the term "nurse expert", it elicits lots of questions:
- What is a nurse expert?
- What do they do?
- Are they different than an LNC?
- Where can they work?
- What kind of clinical expertise do I need?
- Can I do this as an RN? an NP?
Listen in as we discuss these topics and more!
In this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, I talk with Dr. Cindy Elliott, nurse practitioner.
Cindy started her practice in 2009 and ran it successfully for many years before joining a larger practice this past year. Learn how she set herself up for success, as well as build in time and space to give back to the community at large as well as the NP community.
Additionally, Cindy is one of very few providers in the United States whose practice serves the Deaf Community. She discusses some of the cultural issues as well as communication issues, especially in this time of the global pandemic.
Visit the show notes for this episode for resources and contact information.
In this "Short Takes" episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, let's talk about a question that has many confused, and that's opting out of Medicare!
You'll find links and resources at NPBusiness.com
Meet Tina Rose, a women's healthcare nurse practitioner. We talk about her journey to opening her own practice 10 years ago and how over the years her practice has changed.
Thanks for subscribing and sharing the podcast.
Head on over to the show notes for the links and contact information.
In this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, I talk about some reasons for you to consider NOT starting a business this year.
I get a lot of questions from people who have every reason not to start a practice, and from others who started when perhaps they should have waited.
We'll discuss things such as financial readiness, clinical readiness, the business climate, and more. If you are thinking of getting started this year, you don't want to miss this.
What are your reasons to get started or not. Let me know below the show notes.
Today I’m having a conversation with Randi Mann WHNP-BC, NCMP, ARNP. She is a women’s health care nurse practitioner who specializes in hormone care in Wisconsin. Randi built her practice so that she could take the time needed to educate and work with her patients…and has done so quite successfully. There is something here for any business owner to learn. We discuss things such as:
- Marketing
- Cash Flow
- Additional income streams
- And more!
I'm sure you'll get something out of this episode on the NP Business Matters Podcast.
Meet Dr. Sonia Smith, a pediatric nurse practitioner with her own practice and specializes in pediatric behavioral sleep issues.
In this episode, we talk about the specialty of pediatric sleep medicine as well as what it takes to start a practice. You'll hear why I call Sonia the "poster child".
We also spent time discussing....
- The importance of community.
- Her caveats of those getting started in business.
- Leadership
Visit NP Business for show notes and more.
Incivility. Disruptive Behavior. Bullying.
Those are terms that we are all familiar with. Perhaps you've been a witness to it occurring or even taken part in delivering this behavior. It's even likely you've been the recipient.
Unfortunately, you are not alone.
What can we do about it? To begin with, let's talk about this with expert Dr. Renee Thompson.
In this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, we'll discuss:
- How to identify the difference between bullying and incivility.
- How to address workplace (school, association, facility) culture to improve the situation.
- Things you can do to set up your own practice to avoid disruptive behaviors.
- Looking at your own behaviors to become self-aware.
I love this powerful question that Renee puts out there when she is working with a team..."How do you always want to be treated by each other and how do you never want to be treated by each other?" What would happen if that question was asked in all environments?
This is a question you'll definitely want to take to your personal and professional environments.
Visit the blog for complete show notes and resources.
Looking for a job? New graduate or seasoned NP? You'll want to listen to Renee Dahring, APRN, FAANP, she is the NP Career Coach.
While Renee has been active legislatively in Minnesota (they enjoy, and continue to enjoy FPA, in no small part to her contributions), her background and experience also led her to become a career coach for NPs.
One of the issues I hear frequently is about job searches, especially for new NPs. Renee and I talk about tips that will improve an NPs ability to find their job of choice, including:
- Resume vs CV
- Complete qualifications
- Keywords
- How to craft your experience
In addition, learn about the practice environment in Minnesota. We’ll also talk about what it takes to be active in your state, even a little bit, and how that can make a big difference.
Visit the show notes for resources and contact information.
Curious about direct primary care? Today's episode is with Dr. Maria Walker who talks about her start in this area, as well as setbacks that she has faced getting started in her own practice.
Additionally, she has generously shared resources she has used to get started on this path to practice.
Find the shownotes @ https://NPBusiness.com/podcast
Writing a book is something on the list of many individuals. Yet, as soon as we sit down and are faced with a blank piece of paper or screen, we wonder where to start. Many are overwhelmed from the start.
Today I’m interviewing Yvonne D’Arcy, MS, ARNP, CNS, FAANP, and Deb Kiley, DNP, NP-C, APRN, FAANP whose new book “Pain Management in Primary Care, Essential Knowledge for APRNs and PAs" was just released by Springer Publishing.
Yvonne is a respected expert, the author of numerous books on this topic, and a sought after speaker on pain management in the in-patient as well as outpatient setting.
Deb Kiley, who we also heard from in Episode #4 also practices pain management from a more holistic point of view.
We talk about the work that goes into writing a book. The schedule, the discipline, having a publisher, and so much more.
Make sure you take advantage of the time-limited coupon code from Springer Publishing. Head over to the show notes.
Juliette Blount, NP has been a passionate advocate for people of color her entire life, but it was just who she was. In this episode, we talk about
- How she came to this topic and what spurred her to develop it further.
- What we as healthcare providers can do today and going forward.
- How planning changed her initial ideas on business.
- How her intended "side hustle" became her full-time business.
- Suggestions on how to find your own passion business.
What do leadership, mentorship, and "doing good" have in common?
Listen to what Dr. Cindy Cooke has to say about that in this episode of the NP Business Matters podcast. This is about going beyond our clinical practices, and being involved in our local communities, state, and national communities.
NPBusiness.com/podcast
How do you help your leadership team, board, or colleagues improve their ability to communicate? You take a concept, a proven system, and you apply it to your group. You teach, coach, and mentor.
Today's guest, Suzanne Wertman, MSN, CNM works for her professional organization. She has found that leadership involves a lot of listening, and that self-care goes a long way to increase one's resilience and emotional intelligence.
What I love about this, is that Suzanne brought outside help to her organization from a non-nurse. She introduced them to Brene Brown and Dare to Lead.
In our conversation, we laugh and nearly cry and you might just find yourself nodding your head and remembering times that you may have shed a tear or two yourself.
What are your aha's, thoughts, feelings as you listen to this? Can you relate? Head over to NPBusiness.com/podcast and share your thoughts.
Is California's AB-890 good for NPs? What does it really mean?
I had the honor of speaking with Melanie Balestra, NP, JD in California on the law signed by Gov. Newsom on September 29, 2020. According to the CANP website, it states that "AB 890 allows NPs to work without physician supervision, removing the supervisory requirement in existing law so NPs can provide the same high-quality care they do today and care more directly for patients."
But of course, there is a lot in the details, and (IMHO) not all of it is good.
Visit https://npbusiness.org/podcast/ this and all the episodes.
In this episode of the NP Business Matters podcast, Barbara C Phillips, NP, interviews Dr. Penni Vachon about her direct primary care (DPC) practice in South Carolina.
You'll hear many pearls of wisdom about having this type of practice, including
- Getting experience
- Doing your research
- Understanding insurance, cost
- Networking in your community
- Marketing
- Challenges
- Being the first in your community
We are sure you'll enjoy this episode as well. Please head to NPBusiness.com/podcast to get the show notes for this episode, and every episode.
Today I’m interviewing Don Self. If you’ve been following NPBO for a while, you may be aware of an webinar I did with Don this past summer. In that webinar, a lot of eyes were opened as to the amount of money clinicians are leaving on the table because they are unclear of what they can bill for. In this interview, we’ll touch on that a bit more, but the focus today is on Telehealth, and appropriate coding to get paid for your services.
Don Self is a certified coder and consultant. He’s been teaching and consulting with clinicians, coders and others for the past 35 years and is a wealth of knowledge that he readily shares with us.
I want you to pay attention here. One of the things you’ll hear him say is “Right now, even with Covid, if you are in primary care, you should be making more money now than you were making prior to covid just by a little education”. Don provides that education in this episode fo the NP Business Matters Podcast.
Show notes are located at NPBusiness.com/podcast. There you will also find the link to the upcoming webinar.
In this episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, I speak with Amelia Roberts, RN.
She notes that business has always been in her blood and that early on she started out by selling potholders to her grandmother's friends.
But on to nursing school and still looking for business ideas and being surprised about how someone could make money in cat grooming, and how it leads to even further ideas.
You'll even hear me giggle about cat grooming!
She encourages nurses to look at your knowledge base, both in and out of the nursing field to find their own ideas.
Visit NPBusiness.com/podcast for the show notes to this and all our episodes.
Join me for this episode of the NP Business Matters podcast as we talk with Dr. Deb Kiley, DNP, ANP, FAANP about wellness for clinicians as well as our patients.
There is no denying that 2020 has been a year of stress, loss, and chaos for most clinicians. While many are doing well, some are challenged.
Deb offers us several ideas we can use to care for ourself including:
- Increasing awareness
- Breathing
- Mindfulness
- Metabolic health
- Sleep
- Yoga/Tai Chi
- and more.
"Self-Care is a Gift" - Dr. Deb KileyVisit NPBusiness.com/podcast for the shownotes and all our episodes.
In this episode of the NP Business Matter Podcast, I'm talking with Irene Bean DNP, FNP, PMHNP, FAANP. Irene is a business owner and is the founder of the Tennessee Nurse Practitioner Association and is also currently the state representative for TN for AANP.
Our conversation was not long enough to cover all we wanted, but we did talk about how Irene got started in business and the importance of planning and how all that pertains to leadership. You'll notice that sometimes opportunities arise when you are not necessarily looking for them. And if you are looking for them, they may appear in a different way than you anticipated.
On the blog, I pointed out three lessons I found as I listened back on this episode. I wonder if you found them as well.
Visit us at NPBusiness.com for show notes, resources, and links mentioned.
In this episode of the NP Business Matter Podcast, I talk with Nancy E. Dirubbo, DNP, FNP, FAANP. Nancy was, to the best of my knowledge the 2nd Nurse Practitioner in the US to open her own practice and has a lot of experience and wisdom to share about her time as a business owner, professional involvement, lessons learned, and the development of NPs going forward to full practice authority.
We talk about a variety of topics, some of what is listed here:
- The difference between "then and now"
- Ethics
- Transparency
- New grads as business owners
- Education
- Professional involvement
- and more!
Visit us at NPBusiness.com for show notes, resources, and links mentioned.
In this first episode of the NP Business Matters Podcast, Barbara C Phillips talks about the steps to take before you start your business. It starts with some assessment and research. She discusses:
- SWOT Analysis
- PPFM Analysis
- Personal Issues
- Professional Issues and Readiness
- Financial Assessment - what will it cost, how much will you make and where will you find the money.
- Market Analysis - who else is playing in your sandbox? What will you find when you do that community assessment?
Be sure and stay tuned for future episodes as we dive deeper into what it takes to actually start your practice and keep it profitable!
Visit the blog at for complete show notes. https://npbusiness.org/
Welcome to the NP Business Matters Podcast: The Business of Being a Nurse Practitioner. In this short episode, I give you an overview of what to expect on this podcast. I also ask you, what you want to hear.
You can leave your suggestions here, or feel free to contact me through social media or on our blog at NPBusiness.ORG