7th Annual Association for Bariatric Endoscopy (ABE) Meeting: Comprehensive Care of the Patient with Obesity – Endoscopy and Beyond! | May 2022-Show Me the Money-The Business Side of EBTs

Pdf Summary

In this document, Dr. Shelby Sullivan discusses the business side of endoscopic bariatric therapies (EBTs) and provides steps to achieve success in incorporating them into a medical practice. She emphasizes the importance of developing a treatment team, which may include endoscopists, surgeons, obesity medicine specialists, registered dietitians, psychologists, exercise specialists, behavior coaches, and physician extenders/nurses. The costs of the program, including staff, space, and procedural costs, should be determined. A business plan, taking into account revenue, expenses, and market forces, should be developed. It is also important to consider approvals, such as hospital or ambulatory surgical center certifications and supply chain evaluations. Malpractice insurance should cover the procedures performed. Coverage of complications and reimbursement can be managed through self-pay models, contracting with third parties, and submitting coverage requests. Pitfalls in reimbursement should be addressed, such as the need for prior authorization and obtaining patient responsibility forms. Marketing efforts, including press releases, advertising, a user-friendly website, social media, and networking with referring physicians, are essential for program growth. In summary, incorporating EBTs into a practice requires building a strong team, developing a sound business plan, dealing with reimbursement challenges, and implementing effective marketing strategies.

Asset Subtitle

Shelby Sullivan, MD, FASGE

Keywords

endoscopic bariatric therapies

medical practice

treatment team

business plan

reimbursement

marketing efforts

obesity medicine specialists

complications

prior authorization

program growth