With ever-increasing demands on clinic compliance, HR and cyber security, so much falls on the ophthalmic practice manager’s shoulders. But it’s important to stop, upskill and return to the clinic a better leader, writes LARA SULLIVAN.
Practice managers are often the unsung heroes of ophthalmology practices across Australia – forever implementing business and clinical frameworks so that ophthalmologists are unburdened to concentrate on what they do best.
To drive best practice in areas like business and practice management, communication, Medicare changes, HR regulations, health funds and cyber security, ophthalmic practice managers have become more organised and professional over the years, supported by RANZCO.
Most notably, practice managers have a dedicated stream during RANZCO’s Annual Scientific Meetings. Early on, Mrs Colleen Sullivan from Queensland was a driving force in getting the speakers and program together. And in 2007 RANZCO introduced a new Associate Member category for ophthalmic practice managers, enabling them to be part of RANZCO memberships.
As we gear up for the next RANZCO Congress in Adelaide, I’m excited about the immersive and comprehensive practice managers’ schedule over three days (1-3 November), addressing the most pressing issues in healthcare management and ophthalmology.
It covers so much: leadership, becoming an employer of choice and ‘greening’ ophthalmology. Mr Tim Wong, a super engaging speaker, will discuss something all practice manager’s know well – managing difficult conversations.
Other thought-provoking sessions include Ms Lisa O’Neill, author and motivator, who will leave the audience inspired with her discussion on “leading with energy and authenticity”. We’re also excited about filmmaker Ms Tsu Shan and her glimpse into movie production and the use of this platform to tell the story of those suffering visual problems.
We instituted a ‘Focus on a Fellow’ session some years ago to learn more about the personal interests and passions of RANZCO fellows. This year Associate Professor Alex Hunyor will speak about his voluntary work with a large veterinary practice providing ophthalmic care to all sorts of creatures.
Another one to watch is Mr Matthew Cameron, from Vibe IT, and his discussion on cybersecurity and AI. With AI being the way of the future, we need to be on the front foot, so this is essential listening.
Conference details
To kick off the conference, practice managers will join the main RANZCO session along with the fellows for a Welcome to Country and Congress Opening. This will be followed by a keynote speech from Mr Tim Jarvis, an adventurer and environmental scientist, setting the tone for the event.
Practice manager delegates will then head to the Riverbank rooms for sessions on medico-legal issues such as managing confronting situations and positive duty in the workplace. The day closes with a session on sustainable ophthalmology by Dr Jesse Gale, emphasising cost-effective and eco-friendly practices.
Sessions to watch out for on the second day include a discussion on the top three risks for ophthalmology and a focus on frontline leadership in healthcare by Epigroup’s Mr Alan Stevenson, a highly rated speaker in previous years.
Packed sessions are also expected on positive workplace culture by business consultant Mr Danny Haydon. The day ends with a special dinner for practice managers at Strathmore Hotel, offering a chance to network and reflect on the day’s learnings.
The final day of the conference dives into future-facing topics. For example, delegates can gain insights into leveraging social media for ophthalmologists by CEO and founder of Puzzle Media Ms Tina Hay who will also cover Ahpra compliance.
The conference will round out with a presentation on the use of AI in healthcare and, a crowd favourite, Mrs Colleen Sullivan discussing the principles of healthcare practice management. Financial governance will be the final session by Ms Moira McInerney from Monash University, wrapping up with feedback and planning for 2025.
We’re excited with the program cultivated for 2024 that promises to equip practice managers with the tools, knowledge, and connections to navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare and ophthalmology.
As always, the committee is dedicated to curating an excellent Congress to educate and inform our delegates, who are committed to supporting RANZCO fellows.
More information on the 2024 RANZCO Practice Managers Conference can be found here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lara Sullivan is chair of the RANZCO Practice Managers’ Advisory Group and co-founder and director of Bayside Eye Specialists, a multi-disciplinary specialist practice in Victoria.
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