Hello WPO members,
I’m reaching out because I could use both practical guidance and the support of fellow business owners. Leading a mid-size outpatient mental health practice can feel isolating, especially when trying to solve a problem this consequential.
My biggest concern is keeping clinician pay competitive while operating on very thin margins. Our insurance reimbursement rates simply aren’t keeping pace with rising costs.
I’ve contacted payer contract managers wherever I can find them. Aetna and UHC/Optum have declined increases. We’ve had some success with BCBS and Cigna/Evernorth, but the increases haven’t been enough.
If you work in mental or physical healthcare, or know someone who does, I would be grateful for:
- Recommendations for companies or consultants with a track record of negotiating better payer fee schedules.
- Introductions to people with payer relationships or contracting expertise.
- Advice from healthcare owners who have successfully navigated this challenge.
I’m based in New York and welcome connections from anywhere. I’ve taken this as far as I know how to on my own, and I would really value the experience and perspective of this community.
Thank you for any leads, introductions, or willingness to talk it through.
Alyson
