Estate tax repeal occurs for only one year, and in that year it is actually repealed by the capital gains tax. Warning: your current estate tax plan may now be obsolete!

In planning for HIPAA, physicians and practice managers should consider acquiring a computer system that will go beyond basic compliance. Instead, take advantage of the new standardization and mass exchange of electronic data and acquire a combination of computer systems that can provide new financial management capabilities and opportunities.

A proposed consent decree filed by the Department of Justice has further validated the use of the third-party messenger model as a means of collectively dealing with managed care contracting while avoiding antitrust scrutiny. The messenger model will come under scrutiny when it is used principally to strengthen the bargaining power of physician group participants, but it may be used appropriately to facilitate information exchange between plans and physicians, thereby enhancing the negotiation process by independent groups.

Malpractice claims against physicians continue to increase at an alarming rate every year. Many physicians have turned to basic asset protection strategies as a means by which to protect personal assets from the claims of litigants and other creditors.

Significant differences exist in the billing performance of physician group practices. Some practices are struggling to maintain a basic level of billing effectiveness while others have made significant improvements in their billing operations--improvements evident in rock bottom accounts receivable, a higher collection ratio and decreased billing errors.

A physician subjected to peer review may have little chance of surviving unless early and aggressive measures are taken, facilitated by an understanding the case law and limitations on judicial remedies

A portfolio’s risk can be reduced and the expected rate of return improved if investments are combined that don’t move together.

Many of the most common violations are simple to correct, but being prepared and constantly evaluating your readiness is essential.

Many physicians have reached a time when they expected to take it easy, yet they find themselves working harder than ever. Others are concerned about a continued decline in their patient base. Here are a few suggestions to help you jumpstart your practice.

Physicians who make the best expert witnesses are those who do so occasionally, have unique expertise and get involved because they realize the true importance of the task. Here are guidelines on what to expect.