Effective organization and communication are essential for biologic coordinators, especially during high-demand periods like "blizzard season." Racheal Cooley and Janelle Ball discuss the busiest season for dermatology offices, which can overwhelm even the most seasoned professionals. Rachel shares her insights and strategies for navigating this challenging time, emphasizing the importance of organization and proactive communication.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

Importance of Communication

1. Provider Relationships: Effective communication with healthcare providers is vital. Rachel points out that coordinators must cultivate strong relationships with providers to ensure all necessary information is included in patient notes for prior authorizations. This collaboration streamlines the approval process and reduces the likelihood of denials.
2. Team Coordination: Communication extends beyond providers. Rachel stresses the importance of engaging with nurses and back-office staff, as they play a crucial role in documenting patient information and addressing patient inquiries. A well-informed team can better support patients and ensure everyone is aligned regarding treatment plans.
3. Patient Interaction: Rachel also highlights the significance of direct communication with patients. By providing her contact information, she ensures that patients have a reliable point of contact for any questions or concerns. This approach fosters trust and helps patients feel supported throughout their treatment journey.

Effective communication is a recurring theme in Episode 46 of That’s Derm Good! Rachel emphasizes the need for coordinators to maintain open lines of communication with providers, nursing staff, and pharmacy personnel. This collaboration is vital to ensure that all necessary information is documented correctly and that patients receive their medications without unnecessary delays.

Building solid relationships with providers and office staff is essential for successful prior authorization processes, as clear communication can prevent delays and denials in patient care.

This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for small business owners.

Rachel Strauss, the self-described ‘PBM Princess,’ is also the Vice President of Strategy for EHIM powered by ProCare. Rachel shares her unique journey into pharmacy benefit management (PBM), a field many may not be familiar with. With a love of pink and glitter and a passion for making the PBM world more approachable, Rachel explains the value of PBMs and how she was introduced to this role.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

A Pharmacy Benefit Manager is an intermediary between health insurers, pharmacies, and drug manufacturers. They manage prescription drug benefits for health plans, negotiating prices and determining which medications are covered. Rachel explains that most people are unaware of PBMs and their significance, often assuming that their health insurance provider is solely responsible for their prescription coverage. In reality, many insurance companies outsource their pharmacy benefits to PBMs, which handle the logistics of drug pricing and distribution.

For patients navigating the complexities of their pharmacy benefits, Rachel offers several strategies:

1. Understand your plan and familiarize yourself with the company's health insurance plan and the specific pharmacy benefits it offers. This includes knowing who the PBM is and what medications are covered.
2. Communicate with HR or Brokers if you need clarification on your coverage.
3. Explore Cost-Saving Options like international drug options or patient assistance programs. Many manufacturers offer assistance regardless of income level, which can help patients afford their medications.
4. Be Proactive: Patients should take the initiative and seek clarification about their medications, especially regarding prior authorizations and potential out-of-pocket costs.

This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for small business owners.

Dr. Zehra Murthy, the founder and lead scientist of Belfiore Herbal, is a passionate advocate for using natural, plant-based ingredients in skincare products. Her extensive cellular and molecular biology background has deepened her understanding of how these ingredients can benefit the skin at a cellular level, promoting overall health without the adverse effects of synthetic chemicals.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

Dr. Murthy emphasizes that the skin is the body's largest organ, and maintaining health is crucial for enhancing inner beauty and confidence. She points out that many conventional skincare products contain synthetic chemicals that can potentially harm the skin by mutating genes or causing other long-term damage. In contrast, her formulations are designed to be free from these harmful substances, relying instead on the natural properties of plants.

The key ingredients used in many Belfiore Herbal products are lavender, turmeric, sunflower oil, vitamins A and C, calendula, ashwagandha, and shea butter.

Dr. Murthy's commitment to using clean, plant-based ingredients stems from her extensive cellular and molecular biology background. Zehra advocates avoiding synthetic chemicals and animal-derived products, which can harm the skin and overall health. Instead, her formulations focus on physiologic oils that nourish the skin rather than merely sitting on its surface.

Dr. Zehra Murthy's commitment to natural ingredients extends beyond product formulation and encompasses ethical considerations. She sources shea butter from women farmers in Ghana, ensuring that 20% of the profits are reinvested to support these communities. This approach not only promotes sustainability but also empowers women in agriculture.

This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for business owners.

Dr. Ramiz Hamid’s early exposure to medicine because of his brother's health issues inspired him to become a doctor and surgeon. Dr. Hamid shares the intricate process of Mohs surgery, from the initial biopsy to the final reconstruction. Patients who qualify for Mohs surgery undergo a thorough evaluation to determine the best course of treatment based on factors such as tumor location and aggressiveness. Interestingly, this surgery does not take a set amount of time because the process evolves once the surgeon begins to remove the cancer.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

In addition to the surgical aspect of Mohs surgery, Dr. Hamid shares the crucial role of reconstruction for skin cancer patients. Each Mohs surgeon works closely with the patient to design a reconstruction plan that restores the skin's appearance and preserves its function, utilizing plastic and reconstructive surgical techniques to minimize scarring and enhance the overall aesthetic result for patients.

Mr. Ramiz Hamid is also involved with the Treatment iTASC's efforts to bridge the gap in access to care for underserved patients with aggressive skin cancers, which are commendable. By offering free Mohs surgery treatment through a network of volunteer surgeons, the organization significantly impacts the lives of individuals who would otherwise struggle to afford or access this essential medical care. iTASC's commitment to expanding its services to reach more regions and eventually becoming a nationwide platform demonstrates its dedication to addressing the unmet needs of vulnerable populations facing skin cancer.

This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for small business owners.

Growing up in a dermatology office, Brie Hutchings witnessed the impact of patient education and immediately understood its value. Brie's mother, who also works in dermatology, instilled in her the importance of caring for patients and ensuring they receive the necessary support.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

Brie discusses the challenges patients face when starting biologic treatments, such as the need for regular injections and potential side effects. Brie emphasizes the role of the biologic coordinator in guiding patients through the process, addressing their concerns, and providing reassurance. Biologic coordinators play a vital role in ensuring patients feel supported and empowered throughout their treatment by offering patients a safe space to ask questions, express their fears, and seek guidance.

Collaboration and communication among office staff, including front desk, medical assistants, and providers, are essential for ensuring a smooth process for patients seeking treatment. The importance of teamwork and coordination within the dermatology office to provide the best care for patients explains Brie Hutchings in Episode 42 of That’s Derm Good!

Brie highlights the crucial role of each team member in the patient care process. She mentions the significance of front desk staff in creating a positive and welcoming patient environment. Despite facing challenges and frustrations, Brie acknowledges the importance of front desk staff in being empathetic and understanding towards patients who seek help for their skin conditions.

This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for small business owners.

Dr. Tiina Meder, a renowned dermatologist and founder of the Meder by Dr. Tiina Meder brand, discusses why she created a skincare line tailored for women in all stages of life: pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause, and post-menopause. Dr. Meder's background in cosmetic safety and experience working with pregnant women as a cardiologist inspired her to develop products suitable for every stage of life.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

Dr. Meder's skincare line, Meder by Dr. Tiina Meder, incorporates innovative ingredients like peptides and probiotics, which she discovered to be highly efficient and safe for all stages of life. She emphasizes the importance of using safe ingredients suitable for application on the skin during pregnancy, ensuring that her products are practical and free from potentially harmful components.

Meder by Dr. Tiina Meder has an inclusive approach to addressing various skin concerns that women may experience during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause is evident. By offering products tailored to different skin types and sensitivities, Dr. Meder ensures that women can maintain healthy and radiant skin throughout their lives.

According to Dr. Meder, a basic skincare routine should consist of three essential products: a cleanser, antioxidant protection, and a moisturizer adapted to the individual's skin type. This minimalistic approach ensures the skin receives necessary care without overwhelming it with multiple products. By focusing on these core products, individuals can address their skin's basic needs and maintain health and vitality.

This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for small business owners.

Efficiency is a key factor in the success of any medical practice, and dermatology is no exception. With the rise of new technologies, the need for collaborative and engaged team members is even more important. Join Janelle as she speaks with Jonathan Banta, CEO of The 44 Group, and Joe Atzenbeck, CEO of the Clinic for Dermatology and Wellness. The discussion delves into enhancing efficiencies in dermatology offices amidst the rise of AI and why they are not worried about job displacement because of technology.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

Hiring the right people and investing in employees is crucial for enhancing patient care and streamlining office processes. In a podcast episode, Jonathan and Joe emphasized the importance of hiring individuals with the right personality, intelligence, and integrity, as these qualities significantly contribute to the practice's overall success. They mentioned that investing in people, even paying a little more, can lead to better value in the long run.

Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing efficiencies in the office, as discussed in the podcast episode. Jonathan and Joe emphasized the importance of considering how different technologies are stacked and utilized to maximize their benefits. Joe highlighted the significance of technology in streamlining office processes, mentioning that he spends a lot of time talking to people about the technologies he uses and how he stacks them. He emphasized the need to be cautious about how technologies are used and aware that vendors may offer various features, but not all of them may be equally beneficial.

Furthermore, both speakers stressed the importance of creating a positive work culture where employees feel supported and appreciated. They mentioned that happy employees lead to better patient experiences as they are more likely to go above and beyond to provide exceptional care. Joe highlighted that patients often spend more time with support staff than providers, making the team's engagement and motivation crucial.

This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for small business owners.

Passion for dermatology shines through in the story of Lauren Miller, a dermatology PA with a unique journey into the field. From a young age, Lauren knew she wanted to pursue a medical career, inspired by her experiences with a chronic urologic disorder. However, a summer shadowing a dermatologist truly ignited her passion for dermatology and set her on a path she had not initially considered.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or health advice. This podcast does not substitute medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or dermatologist regarding medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

Finding a mentor and seeking support in dermatology are essential for continuous learning and growth. In a podcast episode, Lauren Miller emphasizes the significance of mentorship and support in dermatology. She shares her experience of seeking guidance from experienced professionals, leading to various career opportunities and achievements.

Success in the healthcare field can be defined differently for each individual. Lauren emphasizes the importance of prioritizing what brings personal fulfillment and joy. While some individuals may thrive on constantly pursuing new goals and achievements, others may succeed by staying on top of the latest therapies and attending clinical practice daily. Lauren acknowledges that everyone's goals and ideas of success are different, and it is essential not to feel pressured to measure up to others.

Furthermore, advocating for education and advancement involves actively seeking professional development and growth opportunities. Lauren's drive to constantly seek new challenges and opportunities for learning has led her to take on roles as a speaker, educator, and leader in dermatology organizations. By embracing these opportunities, she has expanded her knowledge and skills and contributed to the advancement of the field as a whole.

This episode is produced by Skip The Boring Stuff, a podcast strategy company for small business owners.