Activity 2: At-Risk Contracting (100 points) Respond to the prompts below in no more than two pages. Separate and identify your responses to Parts A, B, C, D, and E. Scenario: You are a practice manager for Accelerated Health (AH), a  25-physician hospitalist group that practices at St. James Hospital, a  large hospital in an urban area. The hospital currently contracts with  five hospitalist groups, but AH manages the largest share of the  hospital’s 1,500 monthly patient cases. AH has performed better than the  other hospitalist groups in some of the hospital’s key performance indicators, such as average length of stay (LOS). Currently, AH operates  entirely on a fee-for-service model with no risk-based contracts. Their  payer mix is 50% Medicare or Medicaid, 46% private insurance, and 4%  self-pay. Referrals from primary care providers and other specialists  drive most of their patient volume, and they continue to remain  competitive in managing patient volumes at St. James. AH is only one of  two hospitalist groups that covers the emergency department and also  manages patients at a long-term acute care hospital. Managed care and  capitation payments have yet to be widely adopted in your market, but  there may be an opportunity for AH to be a first mover considering their  payer mix and the patients they serve. You’re approached by OptiHealth, an insurance payer, to manage their  dual-eligible patients admitted to St. James under a capitated arrangement. Most of these patients have multiple comorbidities and  require more intensive care, but OptiHealth has a history of  transferring its patients from other local hospitals to St. James  Hospital. The initial contract would include a $600 payment per patient  admission for an anticipated 20 patients per month. It would also  require AH physicians to frequently meet with OptiHealth case managers  to ensure care is appropriately coordinated. All 25 of your hospitalists  need to be in agreement before taking on any form of a risk-based  contract. Identify what you perceive to be the key facts of the case. (20 points) Identify and describe key stakeholders or areas needing consideration. (20 points) Describe some reasons why you might recommend accepting the contract. (20 points) Describe some reasons why you might recommend rejecting the contract. (20 points) Identify your recommendation and explain why.  

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.