Peer 1:  The health care industry focus on reducing costs and improving quality is pushing for innovative ways to provide services and conduct business. Becker and Ellison (2019) published 8 hospital revenue cycle trends in 2019 which discussed the push for price transparency. Trend 1) is that hospitals moved to a more consumer-centric approach to revenue cycle management in efforts to lower cost for consumers.  2)Hospitals are required to publish a list of their standard charges per CMS, 3) hospitals are jumping ahead of the mandate to publish price transparency and are investing in tools to provide accurate price and adjustments to patients, 4) consumer-friendly transparency to receive payment ahead of time, 5) outsource revenue cycle, 6) Increased revenue cycle , 7) implementation of hospital independent physician practices, 8) alignment of hospital and physician IT, included EHR and revenue cycle management. I think outsourcing is valuable in helping hospitals reduce costs.  Outsourcing has grown beyond the traditional functions such as housekeeping, laundry and food services. Outsourcing has expanded to information technology, and clinical services (beckers hospital review, 2013) Also, there is a high volume of physician burnout in the U.S. Outsourcing providers can decrease the number of tasks one physician would have to do reducing burnout. Outsource brings specific custom skills to get the job done efficiently and timely. Pros It is cost effective for hospitals (save money on payroll taxes) Provides full service without having to retain staff Outsourced ED providers bring focus and expertise specifically for the department or position, takes way from competing responsibilities that full time physicians have. Perform efficiently and high-quality job Eliminates challenging transitions during training phase of permanent staff members  Reduces access problems Customer specificity outsource may be turned into an organizational capability. This will provide familiarity with the ED facility and staff forcing good working relationship. Cons Companies may not uphold the same standard and values (patient care and safety may not be the primary motivator). Privacy and HIPPA concerns. Confidential information of medical information may get transmitted to the outsourcing company. Example outsourcing IT, the hospital would have to ensure it follows the privacy laws to ensure patient safety. Outsource provider may not interact well with permanent staff casing conflicts in the workplace (Bucki, 2018) References Becker’s Hospital Review (2013).  Outsourcing is Exploding in Healthcare — Will the Trend Last?  Becker’s Hospital Review. https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/human-capital-and-risk/outsourcing-is-exploding-in-healthcare-will-the-trend-last.html  Bucki, J. (2018).  Pros and Cons of Outsourcing.  TheBalanceSmallBusiness. https://www.thebalancesmb.com/top-6-outsourcing-disadvantages-2533780 “Hospital revenue cycle trends to watch in 2019 — 8 thoughts” (https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/finance/hospital-revenue-cycle-trends-to-watch-in-2019-8-thoughts.html.   Peer 2: Based on the trends I read about in the article provided in the discussion prompt, two of the eight trends that are most evident in the healthcare industry today are hospitals and health systems engaging in merger acquisitions to reduce costs and expand operational scale and a shift to a consumer-centric approach to revenue cycle management.  Mergers and acquisitions are on the rise with the emergence of value-based care. The article published by Revcycle Intelligence, a Healthcare Media, on July 20, 2018 titled ‘How Hospital Merger and Acquisition Activity is Changing Healthcare’ states that Healthcare organizations announced 115 merger and acquisition transaction in 2017, the highest number in recent history, and that 2018 is likely to meet or even exceed the number of hospital merger and acquisition deals made in 2017. This growing number of mergers and acquisitions in the healthcare industry over the last four years with metamergers accelerated the financial growth of merger deals and hospitals acquitting physician practices to better manage revenue and reduce costs. In addition to reducing costs and improving, the consumer-centric model of value-based care makes it imperative for large organizations to work together through mergers or partnerships as part of an overall interconnected healthcare ecosystem in the context of revenue cycle management (Beckers Hospital Review, 2017). Furthermore, mergers make it easier to implement investments in technological solutions such as coding, system integration and clinical documentation demands.  Secondly, the shift to a consumer-centric approach to revenue cycle management is another evident trend in the healthcare industry. According to a study conducted by Deloitte, moving from population-based care to targeted person-centered care is a trend driven by consumer demands, a higher focus on out-patient care and the growing influence of technology within the healthcare industry (Gerhardt & Arora, 2020). Most importantly however, the need for more cost-clarity and targeted care means that healthcare organizations seek to understand individual patient profiles and provide products and solutions that expand patient access and cater to specific medical needs (Beckers Hospital Review, 2017). References Becker’s Hospital Review, (2017). Five shifts healthcare organizations need to make to be more consumer-centric. Retrieved 10th March, 2022 from https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/patient-experience/five-shifts-healthcare-organizations-need-to-make-to-be-more-consumer-centric.html Gerhardt, W. & Arora, A. (2020). Hospital revenue trends. Deloitte. https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/health-care/outpatient-virtual-health-care-trends.html Revcycle Intelligence, (2018). How Hospital Merger and Acquisition Activity is Changing Healthcare. Retrieved 10thMarch 2022 from https://revcycleintelligence.com/features/how-hospital-merger-and-acquisition-activity-is-changing-healthcare

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.