Managing finances in a medical practice is a complex and critical task that demands precision, expertise, and a deep understanding of both healthcare and financial regulations.
For doctors and healthcare professionals, finding the right accountant is not just about crunching numbers; it’s about entrusting someone with the financial health of their practice. From navigating healthcare compliance to optimizing tax strategies, the right accountant can make a world of difference in the success and sustainability of a medical practice.
In this article, we will explore the essential criteria and considerations for evaluating accountants for doctors so you can be confident your finances are in good hands.
Doctors Have Specific Accounting Needs
As we mentioned, the financial landscape of medical practices is unlike that of most other businesses, marked by distinct challenges and intricacies. Physicians, as well as healthcare providers, must grapple with an array of:
- Regulatory requirements
- Ever-evolving healthcare laws
- Unique financial considerations
This makes it imperative for doctors to seek out accountants who are not only proficient in standard accounting practices but are also well-versed in the nuances of the healthcare industry.
One of the primary distinctions in healthcare accounting lies in billing and reimbursement. Medical professionals deal with insurance claims, Medicare and Medicaid billing, and private-payer negotiations, all of which demand precise and compliant accounting practices.
Tax planning is another crucial area where healthcare professionals require specialized expertise. The tax landscape for doctors is multifaceted, with unique deductions, credits, and compliance issues.
Accountants familiar with the specific tax laws applicable to medical practices can help physicians:
- Optimize their financial strategies
- Minimize tax liabilities
- Avoid costly pitfalls
What to Look for in Accountants for Doctors
How do you know which accountants have the right skill sets and what sets them truly apart from others? Consider the following:
Expert Qualifications and Credentials
Start with their specific qualifications and credentials for the job. In nearly all situations, this professional should be a CPA, not just a bookkeeper. This certification ensures they have the most advanced training in accounting best practices.
Look for professionals who have a medical degree in accounting, healthcare administration, finance, or a related field. An education that includes medical finance alongside accounting can be critically valuable.
Industry Knowledge and Experience
While education is valuable, experience is even more important. Look for an accountant who has existing experience with healthcare accounting.
- Where did they work before?
- What type of work did they do in that situation?
- Is their niche accounting for doctors?
- Are they up to date on healthcare financial regulations?
- What strategies do they employ to ensure that they keep up with those standards and changes?
Consider, as well, how they operated with other medical professionals and practices. Some may work in-house, providing for large practices as their sole focus while others may work for an accounting firm with expertise in the industry. Both situations have their pros and cons.
Search for Trusted Referrals and Recommendations
Because selecting an accountant is a valuable decision, it’s essential to gather as much information about your candidates as possible. Seek recommendations from:
- Trusted professionals
- Colleagues
- Medical associates
Research the recommendations by looking for online reviews and gathering testimonials.
Technology Skills and Software Proficiency
It’s essential to work with an accountant with experience in accounting software and tools for doctors. If they are familiar with the system you are already using – bonus points.
Don’t forget to discuss their proficiency with electronic health record (EHR) integration and what challenges they have helped overcome with it (or the successes they’ve had). The key here is to evaluate the professional’s ability to meet data security and HIPAA compliance while properly following accounting practices.
Excellent Communication Skills
The value and insight a highly skilled professional can bring to your healthcare practice are profound when you select the right person. Yet, they must be able to communicate that with you.
Evaluate their ability to help you understand your financial position and how the numbers can be applied to grow the practice.
Fee Structure and Affordability
Take a look at your needs and compare them to the list of accountants for doctors you’ve narrowed down. Remember to balance your needs with the value they provide. You will be able to find an accountant who offers the services you need within your price range.
Compatibility and Fit
Having a good working relationship is critical, and it shouldn’t be something you overlook when choosing an accountant for your business. Ensure the accountant you choose understands your goals and can align their values with your practice.
We are a Solid Team of Accountants for Doctors
The value of a highly qualified professional cannot be overstated, and with these evaluation steps, you’ll be able to sift through your list of accountants for doctors and find the right professional for the job.
If you’re a medical professional and are in the market for an accountant, consider reaching out to Sorenson & Company. We are experts in accounting for doctors and would love to help you organize and manage the financial side of your practice so you can concentrate on caring for patients. Reach out to us to learn more.