AAPL blog

Physician Liaison Disrupters
Written by: Beth A. Kassalen, MBA, AAPL Executive Director

This has been a hot topic in many of the AAPL committee meetings I’ve participated in over the past few months. The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and physician liaisons are vital in bridging the gap between healthcare advancements, physician roles, and patient satisfaction. That ever-evolving healthcare system can make the physician liaison’s job even more difficult.

Here are a few disrupters encountered by physician liaisons and how the American Association of Physician Liaisons is helping its members stay on top of changes:

1. How Reimbursement Models Effect Referral Strategy: Changes in reimbursement models, such as value-based care and alternative payment models, can impact how healthcare organizations are financially incentivized. Accountable Care Organizations are growing, and a physician liaison needs to have awareness of physician participation in various network agreements for referral strategy.

Tips: Check with your local hospital or employer for up-to-date information on payment models and network agreements, and how these changes will affect both patients and your practice. Organizations such as the Department of Health and Human Services offer guides, articles and the latest news in the healthcare industry.

2. Technological Advancements: Rapid advancements in healthcare technology, such as telemedicine, Hospital at Home, electronic health records (EHRs), and wearable devices, are changing the way healthcare services are delivered. Physician liaisons need to educate themselves and referring physicians on how to best utilize these advancements.

Tips: If you belong to AAPL, follow our social media channels and participate in the chats in the LinkedIn group. You can also post questions to the AAPL Forum to have your colleagues provide tips and ideas to a specific disrupter you are encountering in real-time.

3. Regulatory Changes: Changes in healthcare policies and regulations can affect how healthcare organizations operate. Keeping up to date with new laws and regulations, especially regarding referrals and patient privacy (e.g., STARK, HIPAA in the U.S.), is essential for physician liaisons. Legal topics are often covered in AAPL virtual education sessions and at the Annual Conference each June.

Physician liaisons in AAPL want to stay informed about industry trends and adapt their strategies accordingly. While being proactive in seeking out professional development opportunities and enhance your knowledge and skills, remember to also look after your own wellness needs.

What disrupters are you encountering? Share them on the AAPL Forum.