As the New Year begins, it’s a great time to reflect on your practice as an anaesthetist and identify areas for improvement. Running a solo anaesthetic practice can be highly rewarding, but it also comes with unique challenges that require ongoing attention. Here are three resolutions to consider as you plan for a successful year ahead.
1. Review Your Practice Billing Arrangements
Billing is one of the most critical aspects of running a solo anaesthetic practice. A well-managed billing system ensures timely payments, reduces administrative burdens, and ultimately supports the financial health of your practice. This year, take the time to review your current billing arrangements by asking yourself:
• Quality: Are your invoices being sent promptly and accurately? Are errors or delays causing friction with patients or insurers?
• Cost: How much are you paying for billing services, and are you getting good value for money? Consider not just the fees but also the efficiency and effectiveness of the service.
• Transparency: Do you have clear visibility over your billing and payment status? A lack of insight can make it hard to stay on top of cash flow and identify trends.
If you’re handling billing yourself, it may be time to delegate to a professional billing service that understands the unique needs of anaesthetists. Alternatively, if you’re already outsourcing, ensure your provider is meeting expectations. Remember, a high-quality billing service doesn’t just save time—it also ensures you’re paid what you’re worth.
2. Prioritise Self-Care and Work-Life Balance
Anaesthetists are no strangers to long hours and high-pressure situations, but sustaining this pace without adequate self-care can lead to burnout. Make 2025 the year you actively protect your health and well-being.
• Schedule regular breaks: Avoid overloading your calendar by setting boundaries for work commitments.
• Invest in mindfulness or exercise: Activities like yoga, meditation, or even a regular walk can help you manage stress and improve focus.
• Plan time off in advance: Block out holidays and downtime early in the year to ensure you recharge.
When you prioritise self-care, you’ll not only feel better but also perform better in your clinical role, benefiting both you and your patients.
3. Strengthen Your Professional Network
A strong professional network is invaluable for solo practitioners, especially anaesthetists. Whether it’s for sharing knowledge, finding locum cover, or just having a trusted colleague to call for advice, investing in your network can pay dividends.
• Join or participate in groups: Consider joining a private anaesthesia group or a broader medical organisation in your area. Active participation can open doors to new opportunities.
• Attend professional events: Conferences, workshops, and local meetings are great for staying updated on best practices and connecting with peers.
• Explore technology: Use tools like Listcover (a streamlined solution for finding and managing locum cover) to make networking and practice management easier.
Building strong professional relationships helps you stay connected to your community and enhances the overall quality of care you provide.
Final Thoughts
As you set your goals for the year, remember that even small changes can make a big difference in your practice. Whether it’s refining your billing arrangements, committing to better self-care, or investing in professional relationships, these resolutions will position you for a more productive and fulfilling year.
By taking the time to reflect and act now, you can set the tone for success in 2025 and beyond.