Session Schedule

In this session, participants will learn the essential practices for maintaining clean and compliant accounts in your medical practice. We will cover best practices for regularly managing patient refunds, prepayments, and credit balances, while also addressing key operational processes like merging duplicate accounts, sending patients to collections, and writing off balances when appropriate.

By following these systematic steps, practices can ensure financial efficiency, compliance with legal regulations, and improved patient relations.

This session offers a comprehensive comparison between private clinic and hospital-owned orthopedic practice settings. Key topics include human resources, financial management, technology, operations, compliance, and autonomy. Attendees will explore the benefits and challenges of each model, with insights into recruitment, billing, IT infrastructure, quality assurance, and decision-making processes. The session also covers strategic considerations like economies of scale and collaboration opportunities. Real-world examples will highlight the implications of each model on practice operations and growth. This presentation is ideal for orthopedic professionals looking to make informed decisions about practice management.

Integrating residency-trained ATCs into orthopedic programs can significantly enhance the quality of care, improve patient outcomes, and increase operational efficiency. Developing an in-house accredited residency program for ATCs not only ensures a steady supply of highly skilled professionals but also establishes the organization as a leader in orthopedic education and training. By investing in such a program, orthopedic organizations can realize long-term benefits and set new standards in patient care and professional development.

Utilization of Athletic Trainers in the orthopedic field to the highest and best use of their competencies. Appreciation of the Athletic Trainer Role in Orthopedic Practices Today and the ability to be humble, kind with patients and provide value. This includes the level of breadth and depth competency for enhancing a surgeon’s scope of practice and the ability to be truly Valuable – Ability to extend the practice with providing the essential skills and role to provide full patient continuity.

Orthopedic practices continually seek to increase revenue, reduce overhead, and maximize physician compensation. Learn the secrets to achieving these goals from administrators of practices recognized as top performers based on the AAOE Benchmarking Results. Panelists will share how they were able to overcome challenges to achieve productivity, compensation, net collection, and overhead levels that led to success for their physicians, staff, and patients. Secrets related to using benchmarking data as part of the strategy to overcome practice obstacles will be highlighted.

Healthcare organizations are focusing AI initiatives on enhancing revenue cycle efficiency and overall performance. Ambient provider documentation, autonomous coding, and payer rules engines are at the forefront of this transformation, promising tangible solutions for organizations looking to adapt and thrive.

The adoption of AI in healthcare is at a critical juncture, balancing between academic curiosity and practical implementation. The challenges are real, but so are the opportunities. As the industry navigates the complex landscape of AI adoption, a focus on education, cultural transformation, strategic investments, and a keen eye on emerging trends will be crucial for success.
 

Internal staff have so much to do but rarely enough time to do it. From manually performing release of information (ROI), managing faxes, interacting with patients, verifying insurance, and forms completion – orthopedic specialists need to find creative ways for greater efficiencies in their practices. They also want internal staff focused on patient care, not administrative tasks. Most have staff vacancies to fill. Today’s staffing challenges can be solved by augmentation or outsourcing. How do you know which option is the best for your practice? This session will compare the choices to allow for more informed decisions. 

Healthcare continues to evolve with implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Orthopedic providers seeking out ways to become more efficient, and create universal content need to understand the risks associated with using technology that is meant to support clinical documentation that is both compliant and supports reimbursement for the levels of service billed. However, programs such as ChatGPT pose significant risks for a number of reasons. Beyond that there are disclosures that must be made to patients that allow them to opt out if they do not want AI engaged in their care. This presentation will walk you through requirements of disclosure, structuring policies and procedures as well as ensuing compliance with the addition of this technology.

Medicare regulations and prior authorization requirements related to DME continue to change. In this session, the speakers will identify recent changes and highlight actions and tools that attendees can use to successfully meet DME requirements and address documentation errors when they occur.

Our presentation will offer a comprehensive overview of the advantages and disadvantages of partnership opportunities for orthopedic practices. By assembling diverse perspectives and thought leaders from the orthopedic field, we will facilitate a thorough discussion on the pros and cons of each partnership mode currently available to practices. The panel format will enable direct interaction and debate. This method aims to dispel myths surrounding certain partnership opportunities and foster a dynamic dialogue among the speakers, ensuring an honest perspective around both the benefits and drawbacks.

Unlock the power of authentic leadership in this dynamic presentation. We'll explore how embracing your true self—genuine, honest, and transparent—can transform your leadership style. Discover how leading authentically fosters trust, enhances team dynamics, and inspires others. Learn practical strategies to overcome imposter syndrome, embrace vulnerability, and leverage your strengths. This session is your catalyst for personal and professional growth, showing that authenticity is your superpower for creating meaningful connections, driving success, and building an inclusive, compassionate work environment where everyone thrives.

This presentation will explore the intersection of HIPAA compliance and the latest digital marketing trends. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to navigate the complexities of HIPAA regulations while effectively leveraging cutting-edge digital marketing strategies. Key topics will include ensuring patient data privacy, implementing secure digital marketing practices, and staying updated with the evolving landscape of healthcare marketing. Join us to learn best practices for maintaining compliance and driving successful, ethical marketing campaigns in the healthcare industry.

It's frustrating when a provider audit program leads to the same results without improvement or providers are not open to feedback. The key to a successful audit education program is being able to meet providers at their level and tailor messages to each provider that deliver results. This session is about clear and concise communications with providers about their audit results, with a focus on using audit results to open up lines of communication with providers. The result is a better provider feedback session with improved results on future audits, and a more engaged set of providers in the group.

How long has it been since you negotiated one or more of your contracts? In our session, we’ll explore the following topics about what in your contracts could be keeping your organization from collecting your appropriate revenue: - Contract revenue versus net revenue - The claim adjudication engine - Contract negotiation strategies - Payer data leverage - Reworking and negotiating payer contracts to avoid future underpayment

This comprehensive program will provide healthcare professionals with essential knowledge on cybersecurity threats, compliance regulations, and disaster recovery planning. Attendees will gain insights into the most prevalent cyberattacks targeting healthcare, why the industry is frequently targeted, and the critical elements needed to build an effective Disaster Recovery Plan. The session will also address business continuity strategies during and after a cyberattack and offer best practices for reducing compliance risks. Through an analysis of significant HIPAA breach cases, participants will learn how to avoid common violations and strengthen their cybersecurity measures to protect patient data.

This session focuses on the anticipated updates to the HIPAA Security Rule, part of what’s being referred to as 'HIPAA 3.0.' You’ll learn how to strategically align your compliance efforts with the Health Industry Cybersecurity Practices (HICP) and the HPH Cybersecurity Performance Goals (CPGs) to prepare your organization for these changes. Designed for healthcare leaders, this session will emphasize the importance of moving beyond outdated practices and adopting a modern, comprehensive approach to HIPAA Security Rule compliance. We’ll cover practical steps for integrating these frameworks into your existing programs, ensuring your organization is ready for the regulatory evolution.

Balancing exceptional patient care with financial planning can often feel like walking a tightrope. Maintaining quality care and profitability requires constant attention and precision adjustments. Understanding and optimizing your patient mix is essential for achieving balance.

In this session, orthopedic practice leaders will discuss how to build a clear, actionable roadmap for identifying and attracting the most valuable patient segments for your practice — those who not only benefit from your care but also significantly contribute to your practice's profitability. By effectively using and analyzing patient data and targeting high-value segments, your practice can strike the right balance between superior care and a thriving bottom line.

This presentation will provide a comprehensive overview of how AI is transforming the field of orthopedics, delivering enhanced diagnostic precision, operational efficiencies, and patient care. Attendees will gain valuable insights through real-world case studies, demonstrating the practical applications and benefits of AI technology in various orthopedic contexts. You'll hear from two industry CEOs of AI orthopedic companies Assort Health and Nexus MD as well as the COO of Raleigh Orthopedics implementing cutting edge AI solutions today.

You have a brand, whether you're aware of it or not. It can either define itself or be deliberately crafted by you. In this session, we'll explore the significance of cultivating a workplace culture that people are eager to join. We'll also discuss how to effectively market your employer brand to retain providers and clinicians, attract top talent, and become a recognizable name in your industry.

ASCs are transforming orthopedics with their cost-effective, efficient, and patient-centered approach to surgical care. In this session, we'll dive into the benefits of orthopedic ASCs, from surgical bundles and price transparency to improved patient outcomes and quality measures. Discover why ASCs make both patients and surgeons happier, setting a new standard in orthopedic care.

This session explores how digital tools and AI-driven solutions are transforming both patient experience and operational efficiency. Topics include digital check-in, online scheduling, and satisfaction surveys that streamline patient interactions, plus payment pathways and communication improvements that enhance accessibility and convenience. For operational efficiency, attendees will learn about software solutions that support prior authorizations, generate surgery payment estimates, and assist with denial appeals. The session also delves into AI's role in reducing phone wait times, streamlining documentation in patient rooms, and automating clinical summaries for appeals. Discover innovations that optimize patient care and improve practice workflows.

This session will provide attendees with the basic knowledge and tools needed to successfully participate in the AAOE Benchmarking Survey and effectively use the Benchmarking Results in their practice.

A positive culture is key to the success of an orthopedic practice. This panel of orthopedic practice executives will share their experiences in building strong workplace cultures that support both staff and patient satisfaction. Attendees will learn how to foster collaboration, align organizational goals with team values, and improve workplace morale. Gain insights into creating a sense of belonging and purpose among staff to drive success in your practice.

Customer service is critical to patient satisfaction in orthopedic practices, yet teams face challenges such as managing patient expectations and communication barriers. This panel of orthopedic practice executives will explore these challenges, share their insights on effective staff training, and discuss lessons learned from their experiences. Attendees will gain practical strategies to improve customer service, from developing strong communication skills to fostering empathy among staff.

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare administration, orthopedic leaders are on a quest for innovative solutions to combat rising costs and shrinking reimbursements. Our presentation, “Data Alchemy: Unleashing Hidden Insights to Drive Growth and Efficiency,” will empower attendees to transform raw data into actionable insights. Learn to identify key data sources, leverage enrichment tools, and master data visualization techniques. Through real-world success stories, discover how innovative data utilization can drive better business decisions, operational efficiency, and growth. Join us for an engaging, interactive session that promises to turn your data into gold!

Get ready to transform your perspective on orthopaedic surgery! In this exciting presentation, we'll dive into the often-overlooked but absolutely essential role of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in our field. Discover how embracing DEI is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic game-changer that enhances staff retention, boosts patient volumes, and, most importantly, improves patient outcomes. We'll explore how fostering a diverse, inclusive environment drives innovation, strengthens workplace culture, and positions your practice for long-term success. Don't miss this opportunity to learn actionable strategies that will redefine your approach to orthopaedics!

Frustrated by decreasing reimbursements, pre-approvals, and other administrative headaches from traditional payers? Stay ahead of the curve and attend this session and learn practical steps to on how to connect with self-insured employers in your region.  Discover how to work with broker advisors and their navigation teams who are actively re-directing patients away from expensive venues of care to independent practices and outpatient centers in your area. Discover how to capture this market to grow revenue and simplify operations for your practice.

As practices strive to remain competitive in their marketplace and maintain autonomy, exploration and potential implementation of new ancillary revenue streams or service lines has become a hot topic of conversation. In the weeds of all that is being offered, there are lingering questions - what programs are truly viable, sustainable, profitable, scalable and align with your values while having the least risk for compliance audits and recoups? Taking those proactive steps to define who you are as a practice, what drives you fundamentally, and developing a streamlined approach for easier implementation can ultimately drive a long-term ancillary culture.

This session provides an exclusive opportunity to learn from the experiences of past AAOE board presidents. Attendees will gain insights into the key lessons learned throughout their careers, advice they wish they had known earlier, and their thoughts on the future of the profession. The panel will cover challenges faced, solutions discovered, and predictions for the evolving dynamics of practice administration. This session is designed for aspiring and current leaders looking to enhance their knowledge, learn from experienced professionals, and prepare for the future of orthopedic practice management.

Whether you are new to AAOE, a first time attendee, or looking to maximize the value you receive from your AAOE membership, this is the session for you! Presenters will provide an overview of all that AAOE has to offer including education, networking, benchmarking, and volunteer opportunities. Learn how experienced AAOE members have used the relationships, professional development, and resources they have gained through their membership to advance their career and help their practices succeed. Attendees will leave with an action plan of how to better engage with AAOE and provide value to their orthopedic practice.

In this presentation, we will explore the significant impact of mentoring on employee development and organizational success. We will discuss the benefits of mentoring for both employees and the organization, as well as provide practical tips for establishing and maintaining successful mentoring relationships. Attendees will learn how mentoring can contribute to a stronger workforce and foster a culture of continuous learning and growth within their organizations.

Attendees will leave this session knowing that it NEVER hurts to ask in both professional and personal matters...after all, the listener can only say no. Many of us are afraid to ask for more (or less), because we don't know how to negotiate a better deal, or we don't know how to ask for what we want. Learn how to best prepare for various conversations when negotiating contracts, pricing, and even salary, through lecture and role play from the presenters. Presenters are administrators who bring two lenses to the lessons. Come enjoy this fun and interactive session as we experience the "game" and fun of negotiating with confidence!

This presentation equips orthopedic practice executives with the tools and knowledge to safeguard their practices against cyber attacks. Drawing on expertise from a digital forensic investigator, attendees will learn the current landscape of cyber threats, along with five critical steps all practices must take to protect themselves. From conducting a comprehensive risk assessment to developing a robust cybersecurity plan, implementing access controls, and educating staff, this session will provide a thorough roadmap for securing sensitive data and ensuring business continuity, even in the event of a breach.

This panel discussion brings together experts to explore strategies for preventing and addressing burnout in orthopedic practices. Panelists will discuss practical approaches to mitigate burnout in both administrative and clinical roles, offering insights from their own experiences. Topics include workload distribution for administrators, recognizing early burnout signs in staff, and fostering a culture of well-being. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage with panelists, gaining valuable insights to implement in their own practices.

MBJI added rheumatology in 2012. While it serviced the community well, it was not financially strong for six years as the practice struggled to understand the patient and financial dynamics of the service line as it is very different from orthopaedics. Beginning in 2017, we started a path of consistent growth but wrestled with understanding how to evaluate profit and cash flow requirements. While patient care was uninterrupted, physician turnover caused significant challenges with cash flows. This presentation will provide both an operational and financial (P&L, Cash Flow and Balance Sheet) template for practices to use as they evaluate introducing and growing this specialty.

This presentation explores systemic factors contributing to physician burnout, challenging the focus on individual responsibility. Using a 'triple lens' approach—humanities, justice, and systems—it offers a framework for understanding and addressing burnout. Key factors discussed include workload, administrative burdens, medical culture, payer systems, and licensing requirements. The goal is to inspire healthcare executives to recognize their role in creating a more sustainable, empathetic healthcare environment.

This session brings together a panel of seasoned practice administrators from independent orthopedic practices to discuss the challenges and strategies for maintaining independence in an evolving industry. As private equity groups, multi-group mergers, and hospital acquisitions become increasingly prevalent, many practices face difficult decisions regarding their future. The panelists will share their insights on how to navigate these changes while staying independent, preserving autonomy, and ensuring a successful succession plan for their physicians. Attendees will gain actionable strategies and ideas for sustaining their practice’s independence in the face of growing consolidation pressures.

This session will outline the positives and negatives of strategic partnerships as many orthopedic practices & physicians are considering private equity, mega-groups & mergers, PSAs, and other partnerships. We will host a panel of experts who will share their experience and opinions with full transparency .

Research demonstrates that teamwork is critical to efficiency, organizational effectiveness, and the bottom line. Teams that function together and at high levels are the best producers, and most efficient. This session will cover makes a good team and how we can create them in the workplace.

Tired of the trying to negotiate better payment from commercial insurers and Medicare? Despite our valiant efforts to increase payments, it’s not getting any better: Medicare proposed another 2.8% physician pay cut in 2025.  In the words of Apple’s Steve Jobs, it’s time to “Think Different”. In this session learn how you can diversify your payer mix through direct-pay initiatives centered around transparently priced healthcare bundles. Take proactive steps to grow revenue from self-insured employers, simplify workflows, and create “Zero Revenue Cycle” payments, through the growing direct-pay market most are missing.

Elevate your orthopedic practice with this presentation on recruiting and onboarding top-tier physician talent. Attendees will uncover a comprehensive, data-driven strategy to revamp their recruitment pipeline, from optimizing job postings to streamlining the interview process. Learn innovative tactics, build a compelling employer brand, and cultivate a dynamic practice culture that attracts exceptional orthopedic physicians. Walk away with a practical roadmap to strengthen your competitive edge, enhance patient care, and position your practice for long-term success in the evolving healthcare landscape. Don't miss this opportunity to take your practice to new heights.

This session combines the power of website optimization with the strategic use of AI tools. Attendees will learn how to transform their websites from static online brochures into dynamic tools for conversion and customer engagement. Additionally, we'll explore how AI can further enhance your digital strategy, making it more effective and future-proof. The session includes live feedback on your current strategy and ongoing access to updated resources, ensuring you stay ahead of the curve.

Implementing a successful DME program can enhance the overall productivity and performance of your practice. However, it is essential that this clinical decision also translates into great business decisions for your practice. Addressing the challenges of compliance, audits, inventory and staff management, medical policies and insurance requirements is essential. Equally important is identifying and implementing those proactive steps that define the how's and why's surrounding DME and ultimately help develop an efficient, profitable DME program that works for your practice and physicians.

In today’s competitive healthcare environment, recruiting, hiring, and retaining top talent in orthopedic practices has become more critical than ever. This panel of seasoned orthopedic professionals will dive deep into the strategies that help build high-performing teams.

From identifying the right skills and cultural fit during the recruitment phase to mastering onboarding processes that set new hires up for success, this session will cover the entire talent lifecycle. You’ll learn how to develop a compelling employer brand that attracts top candidates and explore innovative techniques for retaining talented staff, including strategies for fostering growth, satisfaction, and engagement.

As a professional new to an orthopedic practice, you are “drinking from the firehose,” or learning a lot, every day. Still, there are some things that stand out as potential game-changers – that if you’d known about it, it would have made your life so much easier. This panel discussion hosted by members of the AAOE Young & New Professionals Committee will enlighten those new to orthopedic practice.

This discussion is designed for practice professionals who are new to the practice setting, or new in their careers. Join us to build your network and learn from others who are getting their start.

Recommended for: Practice professionals with less than 5 years of experience or under 40 years old.

Join your peers in orthopedic leadership for the AAOE Executives Roundtable to collaborate on strategies, share visions, and address big issues.

Recommended for: C-Suite* Professionals and Practice Administrators (i.e., most senior staff who reports directly to the Board).

*We recommend CFOs attend the Financial Leader Roundtable for more finance specific discussions.

Sometimes we choose our challenges, sometimes our challenges choose us. What we decide to do about them is what counts. Deciding to be a competitor, a realist, and a collaborator offers us a chance of maintaining a resilient mindset under pressure. 

Mark Pollock's keynote will help us reflect on how we can turn challenges into opportunities and achieve more over time.

As adults, everything in our lives begins and ends with us. We are the starting point for all of our responses, reactions, interactions and relationships. If we're operating from unhealthy practices, it might not be our fault AND it is our responsibility. In this powerful talk Maria shares an incredible story of adversity that will inspire, and the data proven techniques that will empower attendees to create new stories about their capacity to cultivate healthy and happy lives. It happens when we make ourselves a priority. 

AAOE will present its 2025 Awards, followed by an enlightening Keynote Presentation - "The Perfect Storm"

The U.S. workforce is facing a dual challenge: a rapidly growing expertise shortage due to demographic shifts and an overwhelming demand for employees. Organizations are struggling to fill critical roles while inexperienced managers and executives take on higher responsibilities. This session explores the factors driving the Perfect Storm and offers strategies to build resilience, develop leadership, and improve employee engagement—key elements that will determine which companies thrive and which struggle in this new era of workforce dynamics. 
 

In today's healthcare environment, maintaining a safe and secure practice is crucial for the well-being of both staff and patients. This session will guide participants through the essential steps to protect their practice from security threats, whether internal or external. Attendees will learn how to assess the appropriate level of security for their specific setting, implement training programs to keep staff prepared, and adjust their strategies as their practice grows. Additionally, the session will explore the benefits of building partnerships with local law enforcement to enhance security efforts. Join us for a comprehensive discussion led by our head of security to ensure your practice is fully equipped to handle security challenges.

This discussion is designed for senior practice professionals who are responsible for leading and directing their assigned functional area.

Recommended for: Operation directors, technology directors, human resource directors.

Engage in strategic conversations and insights on navigating financial challenges, optimizing revenue streams, and capitalizing on market trends specific to the orthopedic industry. Network with fellow finance leaders, share best practices, and explore innovative financial solutions driving success in orthopedic healthcare.

Recommended for: CFO, Finance Managers, Accounting, Revenue Cycle Managers.

If you have over five years of experience working in practice management and/or are working in a management role that reports to a functional area director, this roundtable is for you. Exchange ideas on how to succeed in your role and prepare for further career advancement.

Recommended for: finance managers, accounting managers, human resources managers, billing managers, and related positions.