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#directprimarycare

Are You Ready to Solve Your Medical Practice Challenges?

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Are You Ready to Solve Your Medical Practice Challenges?

Every day, medical practices face a multitude of challenges—financial pressures, patient overload, and burnout are just a few of the obstacles that can hinder your practice’s success. But what if there were effective solutions to these problems? Are you willing to take that next step towards improvement?

At Cornerstone, we understand the unique struggles that healthcare professionals encounter. We believe that instead of merely complaining about these issues, it’s time to take action. Here’s how we can help you transform your practice.

Common Problems Faced by Medical Practices

1. Financial Strain

Many medical practices struggle to maintain profitability. You might find that despite hard work and long hours, revenue isn’t meeting expectations. This could stem from unmonitored expenses, inefficient billing practices, or inadequate patient engagement.

Our Solution:

Cornerstone offers a thorough evaluation of your practice’s expenses to identify areas where you can save money. We usually identify annual savings of at least $25,000, with findings reaching as high as $260,000! If you suspect that the issue lies within your billing, we can examine it to identify any potential problems. Following that, we can provide guidance to your billing team for a more effective approach.

2. Patient Overload and Burnout

The increasing patient load can leave healthcare practitioners feeling overwhelmed. The pressure to see more patients often leads to burnout, impacting both your well-being and the quality of care you provide.

Our Solution:

Have you considered a Direct Care model? This approach allows you to build more meaningful relationships with your patients while managing your workload effectively. We can guide you through implementing this model, helping to reduce burnout and enhance patient satisfaction.

3. Inefficient Operations

Many practices suffer from outdated processes and technology that slow down operations. This inefficiency can lead to frustrated staff and dissatisfied patients.

Our Solution:

With our expertise, we can assess your current operational practices and recommend solutions that improve efficiency. From implementing modern electronic health record (EHR) systems to streamlining patient communication, we enable you to run a smoother operation.

The Next Step Is Yours

Deciding whether to address the challenges your practice faces is crucial. You can choose to continue the cycle of complaints and stress, or you can take the courageous step toward change. Cornerstone is dedicated to helping you implement effective solutions tailored to your unique practice needs.

Don’t wait for the problems to escalate. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in improving your practice’s financial health, reducing your patient load, and optimizing your operations. Together, we can create a sustainable future for your medical practice.

Take charge of your practice’s destiny today!

Independence in Medicine: A Case for Private Practice

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Independence in Medicine a Case for Private Practice

In the evolving landscape of healthcare, the debate between the efficiency and effectiveness of privately owned medical practices versus health system-owned practices has become more relevant than ever. While each model presents its own set of advantages, it is the former—privately owned practices—that truly embody the essence of patient-centered care and the spirit of medical independence.

The allure of large health systems, with their sprawling networks and comprehensive services, is undeniable. However, beneath the surface of these healthcare behemoths lies a complex bureaucracy that often dilutes the patient-physician relationship and stifles the autonomy of medical professionals. In contrast, privately owned practices offer a beacon of independence and personalized care, shining brightly in an industry increasingly dominated by consolidation.

Personalized Care at Its Best

At the heart of privately owned practices is the unwavering commitment to personalized care. These practices thrive on the close-knit relationships developed between patients and physicians, fostering an environment where care is not just a service but a partnership. In these settings, patients are not mere numbers in a system; they are individuals with unique stories, concerns, and health goals. This personal approach ensures that treatment plans are not only tailored to the specific needs of each patient but are also delivered with a level of compassion and understanding that is often lost in larger health system settings.

The Autonomy to Innovate and Adapt

Independence in medicine is not just about the freedom to provide care in a personalized manner; it is also about the ability to innovate and adapt swiftly to the changing healthcare landscape. Privately owned practices operate with a level of agility that is seldom found in their health system-owned counterparts. Without the burden of navigating through layers of bureaucracy, these practices can quickly implement new technologies, adapt to emerging health trends, and refine operational processes to enhance patient care and satisfaction.

Furthermore, this autonomy empowers physicians to make clinical decisions that are in the best interest of their patients, free from the influence of external pressures that often accompany health system affiliations. This independence is crucial for preserving the integrity of medical practice and ensuring that patient welfare remains the paramount concern.

Cultivating Community and Continuity

Privately owned practices are not just healthcare providers; they are integral members of their communities. By serving a more localized patient base, these practices cultivate a sense of community and belonging, contributing to the overall well-being of the areas they serve. This community-focused approach also facilitates continuity of care, enabling physicians to follow their patients through various stages of life and health challenges. Such continuity is essential for creating comprehensive health histories that can inform better healthcare outcomes.

A Sustainable Model for the Future

Critics of privately owned practices often cite financial sustainability as a concern, especially in an era where healthcare costs are rising, and regulatory demands are increasing. However, the resilience and adaptability demonstrated by these practices, even amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, underscore their potential for sustainable operation. Through innovative care models, such as direct primary care, and leveraging technology to optimize efficiency, privately owned practices are charting a path toward a sustainable future in healthcare.

In conclusion, while the healthcare industry continues to grapple with the challenges of providing high-quality, accessible care, the case for privately owned practices remains compelling. Their commitment to personalized care, autonomy in clinical decision-making, community involvement, and adaptability not only positions them as a preferable choice for patients but also as a vital model for preserving the essence of independent medicine. As we look toward the future of healthcare, it is imperative that we support and champion the role of privately owned practices in maintaining the health and well-being of our communities.

Considering starting your own private medical practice? Let us assist you. Reach out to us today to begin your journey.

What is Direct Primary Care?

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In recent years, there has been a growing interest in alternative healthcare models that prioritize patient-centered care and direct access to healthcare providers. One such model gaining popularity is Direct Primary Care (DPC). In this blog post, we will explore what DPC is, how it differs from traditional healthcare, and the benefits it offers to patients.

Understanding Direct Primary Care

Direct Primary Care is a healthcare model that focuses on the relationship between the patient and their primary care physician. With DPC, patients pay a monthly membership fee directly to their physician, bypassing the traditional fee-for-service model that involves insurance companies.

DPC physicians typically limit their patient panels to a few hundred, allowing for more personalized care and longer appointment times. Patients are encouraged to have a continuous and ongoing relationship with their DPC physician, who becomes their primary source of medical care. This model is especially beneficial for individuals with chronic conditions or complex healthcare needs.

How Direct Primary Care Differs from Traditional Healthcare?

Membership-based: Unlike traditional healthcare, where patients rely on insurance to cover their medical expenses, DPC operates on a membership-based system. Patients pay a set monthly fee directly to their DPC physician, who provides unlimited primary care services without additional charges.

Enhanced Access: DPC promotes easy and direct access to healthcare providers. Patients can schedule longer appointments, consult with their DPC physician via phone or email, and even receive same-day or next-day appointments. This accessibility eliminates the need for unnecessary emergency room visits and improves overall patient satisfaction.

Transparent Pricing: DPC offers transparent pricing, with no surprise bills or hidden fees. Patients are aware of the monthly fee upfront, giving them the freedom to budget for their medical care without worrying about deductibles, copays, or coinsurance typically associated with insurance-based healthcare.

Comprehensive Care: DPC physicians focus on providing comprehensive primary care services. They emphasize preventive care, screenings, and patient education to promote overall wellness. Additionally, DPC physicians have more time to spend with patients, enabling them to address concerns comprehensively and create personalized treatment plans.

Benefits of Direct Primary Care

Cost-Effective: DPC can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional healthcare, especially for individuals without comprehensive insurance coverage. The fixed monthly fee often covers routine check-ups, preventive care, and basic lab tests, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

Patient-Centered Care: DPC allows for a more personalized and patient-centered approach to healthcare. Longer appointment times and direct access to healthcare providers foster stronger relationships and enable physicians to truly know and understand their patients’ individual healthcare needs.

Reduced Administrative Burden: DPC physicians can focus more on patient care rather than administrative tasks. Without the complexities of insurance billing and extensive paperwork, DPC physicians can spend more time with patients, resulting in higher-quality care and improved patient outcomes.

Enhanced Preventive Care: With the increased availability of appointments and longer consultations, DPC physicians have more opportunities to focus on preventive care and early intervention. This approach promotes better health outcomes and reduces the likelihood of costly, avoidable medical complications.

Is Direct Primary Care Right for You?

Direct Primary Care offers a refreshing alternative to the traditional insurance-based healthcare model. It prioritizes patient-provider relationships, accessibility, and affordability. However, it may not be suitable for everyone.

At Cornerstone, we have clients who have chosen the DPC model and love it! Our blog page a couple interviews with DPC clients, detailing their experiences. Click here to check them out!

Interested in exploring a practice model that works for you? Contact us to schedule a consultation today!

What is Direct Primary Care?

Private Practice Finds New Hope with Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting

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LEROY, NY —Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting and Management is bringing private practice back for doctors across the country. The consulting firm provides a comprehensive solution to help physicians open and operate successful private practices.

After years of declining private practice numbers, Cornerstone aims to revive this model of care. The company currently has a presence in 17 states, managing all aspects of private practice operations. This allows doctors to focus on patient care rather than administrative burdens.

“We believe private practice provides the best care experience for both doctors and patients,” said Melissa (Missy) Starowitz, Owner of Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting. “Our goal is to make private practice a viable and rewarding choice once again.”

In 2023 alone, Cornerstone supported numerous new practice openings. The company has an ambitious expansion plan for 2024, with many more private practices in the pipeline across several new states.

“The response from doctors has been tremendous,” Starowitz said. “We provide everything needed to run an independent practice, from finding office space to hiring staff to managing billing. Doctors can finally practice medicine on their terms.”

Cornerstone’s unique model offers hope for the future of private practice in America. As the company empowers more physicians to open their own clinics, it’s bringing personalized care back to communities nationwide.

About Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting and Management

Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting is a physician-centric company with the experience, expertise, and resources to assist physicians in many aspects of their professional lives. They offer an array of services for individual physicians or entire practices including marketing and branding needs, sustainable organizational change, and opening new practices. For more information visit their website at cornerstonehealthcareconsulting.com

Contact

Cornerstone: Melissa (Missy) Starowitz, mstarowitz@cm-hi.com, 585.409.7624

Private Practice Finds New Hope With Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting

First Direct Primary Care Practice in Rochester, NY!

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Missy Starowitz, owner of Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting, interviews Dr. Laura Petrescu of Athena Direct Primary Care & Lifestyle Medicine, the first Direct Primary Care (DPC) practice in Rochester, NY! Click on the video below to watch!

Whether you’re a small business owner, a physician in Residency training or someone seeking a new primary care physician, this video is for you. Tune in as Dr. Petrescu answers the following questions:

1.) Tell us about Athena DPC & Lifestyle Medicine

 2.) What is DPC? How is it different from concierge medicine?

3.) What is lifestyle medicine?

4.) What made you decide to open your own practice, using the DPC model?

5.) Are there ways for Athena DPC to work with small businesses?  

Interested to be patient of Dr. Petrescu? Check out her website at athenadirectcare.com where you can also schedule an appointment. Or give the practice a call at 585-662-5510

About Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting & Management: Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting provides multiple consulting services to physicians and medical practices. To learn more or schedule your free consultation, please visit their website at http://www.cornerstonehealthcareconsulting.com

Follow Cornerstone on social media: Instagram: @healthcarecornerstone

Linkedin: https://www. www.linkedin.com/company/cornerstonehealthcareconsulting

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cornerstonehealthcareconsulting

First Direct Primary Care Practice in Rochester, NY

Cornerstone and Azeros Introduce Health Plan Innovation

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BUFFALO, NY, November 18, 2021- Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting and Azeros Health Plans intend to bring change to Western New York healthcare delivery and funding. “Our goal is not to do what is easy,” says Melissa (Missy) Starowitz, Owner of Cornerstone. “We will do what is necessary for the employer community that to date has been ill-served by the healthcare infrastructure.” 

Azeros designs health plans that provide quality care and lower costs to employers. Cornerstone provides consulting and marketing services to medical professionals and practices. Combining their collective backgrounds, the companies have teamed up to introduce the region to Direct Primary Care (DPC) supported by an Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO).

The EPO model provides physicians an independence from the “Mother – May I?” oversight of health insurers and the outdated fee-for-service medicine that complicates billing and payment.  Under the DPC model, new clinics offer employees experience greater access to primary care at a fixed monthly payment and zero co-pays for the care. When combined with an international specialty pharmacy program, employers save 20% off current costs.

Mrs. Starowitz formerly owned urgent care centers and developed tailored programs such as college student telemedicine and occupational health combined with on-site health centers.    

Azeros CEO Ron Zoeller was the founder and CEO of North American Health Plans in 1983, which administered self-funded plans for over 400 groups and 400,000 members, paying $2 billion in annual claims. Azeros partner Kevin Gannon, an employee benefits broker over 35 years, was the founder/President of Niagara Benefits Group and later led the growth of M & T Benefits Agency.

While building the Western New York EPO, the companies will introduce employers to Direct Primary Care vendors PeopleOne Health and Everside Health. The DPC converts an existing medical facility or builds a new clinic at their expense.

The EPO is not exclusive to primary care providers or those operating with a DPC model. The EPO network extends a much-needed opportunity to all physician specialty types by offering them independence, visit capacity and cost control. Cornerstone and Azeros are excited to share this model with the physicians and employers of Western New York.

About Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting and Management

Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting is a physician-centric company with the experience, expertise, and resources to assist physicians in many aspects of their professional lives. They offer an array of services for individual physicians or entire practices including marketing and branding needs, sustainable organizational change, and opening new practices. For more information visit their website at cornerstonehealthcareconsulting.com

About Azeros Health Plans, LLC

Azeros Health Plans is the only Managing General Administrator in the self-funded insured health plan industry. They provide employers with transparency and plans that significantly reduce their costs, as well as offer an international pharmacy benefits program to help employers save on prescription drug costs. For more information visit their website at azeros1.com

Contact

Cornerstone: Melissa (Missy) Starowitz, mstarowitz@cm-hi.com, 585.409.7624

Azeros: Kevin Gannon, k.gannon@azeros1.com, 716.913.4789

Cornerstone and Azeros Introduce Health Plan Innovation