These graphs compare how paper-based practices performed against EHR practices in two categories – total medical revenue and days gross FFS charges in A/R – based on 2010 survey data by the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA). NOTE:EHR practices are separated by those that implemented EHR for a year or less and those that have had EHR for two to four years. NOTE:Both graphs make the comparisons for three physician types: Primary care, surgical specialists and nonsurgical specialists.

Changes in Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement, healthcare reform, and market competition are all driving change not only in how hospitals and health systems approach patient care, but also in how physician compensation models are taking shape, according to a new HealthLeaders Media Intelligence Report, Physician Compensation: Shifting Incentives.

It is easy to say that patients are at the center of healthcare, but a challenge healthcare leaders face centers on the question of responsibility for the patients' care. Some providers are evaluating the patients' role, committing resources to help educate them as to their central place in healthcare. Others are still struggling to understand the impact of patient-centered approaches.

Health insurance exchanges will shake up the healthcare system, and physician practices will feel the effects directly in their managed care contracts and reimbursement. Don't be misled by the fact that the big impact from exchanges won't happen until 2014, because now is the time to influence how the systems are designed and soften the blow to your practice.

Physician groups looking to be more efficient should develop patient safety lists that address emergent events and routine activities, according to Elizabeth Wertz Evans, RN, executive director of professional practice for the Oncology Nursing Society in Pittsburgh.