Rebekah Lockhart

Non-compete agreements (NCAs) have long been a contentious issue in the medical community, often restricting physicians’ professional mobility and potentially impacting patient care. In South Carolina, legislative efforts are underway to address these concerns through Bill S.46, which aims to prohibit such restrictive covenants in physician contracts.​ Understanding Non-Compete Agreements NCAs are contractual clauses that prevent physicians from practicing within a certain geographic area and timeframe after leaving an employer. While intended to protect business interests, these agreements can limit physicians’ ability to serve their communities and maintain continuity of care for their patients.​ The Impetus Behind Bill S.46 Introduced in the South Carolina Senate, Bill S.46 seeks to amend the state’s Code of Laws by adding Chapter 9 to Title 41. The bill declares that any contract provisions interfering with the physician-patient relationship or facilitating the corporate practice of medicine are against public policy and, therefore, unenforceable. Specifically, it states:​South Carolina Legislature Online+2FastDemocracy+2South Carolina Legislature Online+2South Carolina Legislature Online+2South Carolina Legislature Online+2FastDemocracy+2 “A physician… has a direct, personal, and individual duty and responsibility to his patients… any contract or agreement that… restricts or interferes with the physician’s ability to treat patients… are void and unenforceable…” ​South Carolina Legislature Online Implications for Physician Autonomy and Patient Care Eliminating NCAs can have several positive outcomes:​ Broader Movements Against NCAs The movement to abolish NCAs is gaining momentum nationally. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has proposed a rule to ban non-compete clauses, estimating that such a ban could increase workers’ earnings by $250 billion to $296 billion annually. The FTC’s

Optimizing billing and coding practices is crucial for independent physicians aiming to enhance revenue, ensure compliance, and maintain the financial health of their practices. By focusing on key areas such as auditing for undercoding, investing in staff training, and staying updated on coding standards, physicians can significantly improve their billing accuracy and efficiency.​ Audit for Undercoding or Missed Codes  Undercoding occurs when the codes submitted do not fully capture the services rendered, leading to potential revenue loss and increased audit risks. To identify and prevent undercoding:​Outsource Strategies International Train Staff or Hire a Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Accurate coding requires specialized knowledge and ongoing education. To enhance coding proficiency within your practice:​ Stay Updated on CPT Changes and Payer Policies The medical coding landscape is dynamic, with frequent updates to codes and payer requirements. To maintain compliance and optimize reimbursements:​ By focusing on these strategies, independent physicians can enhance the accuracy of their billing and coding processes, leading to improved revenue cycles and reduced compliance risks. Prioritizing regular audits, investing in professional development, and staying abreast of industry changes are essential steps toward achieving financial stability and operational excellence in your practice.​

At IndeDocs, we believe that true healthcare reform begins with empowering independent physicians to deliver timely, patient-centered care—without unnecessary roadblocks. One of the pressing legislative efforts in South Carolina and across the country is reforming the prior authorization process imposed by insurance companies. The Problem with Prior Authorizations Prior authorization (PA) requirements—originally intended to control costs and prevent unnecessary care—have become a major source of frustration for physicians and a serious barrier to timely treatment for patients. According to the American Medical Association (AMA), 88% of physicians report that prior authorizations interfere with continuity of care, and over one-third of physicians say the process has led to serious adverse events for their patients (AMA, 2023). For independent practices, the administrative burden is especially acute. Unlike larger systems with dedicated billing departments, many independent physicians and their staff are forced to spend hours chasing approvals for medications, imaging, and procedures that are clearly medically necessary. Reform in Action Across the country, and right here in South Carolina, lawmakers are responding to these concerns. Legislative proposals aim to: Why This Matters to Independent Physicians As an independent physician, your time is better spent with patients than navigating insurer red tape. Prior authorization reform is not just a paperwork issue—it’s a patient safety issue. It’s also a key area where organized physician voices can influence meaningful change. Supporting PA reform aligns with the mission of independent medicine: delivering high-quality, efficient, and personalized care that puts patients—not insurance companies—first. How You Can Help IndeDocs remains committed to standing with independent physicians in

The landscape of healthcare reform is constantly evolving, and independent physicians are often caught in the crosshairs. While the goal of reform is to improve access and affordability, the impact on independent practices can be multifaceted. IndeDocs understands the unique challenges you face, and in this article, we’ll analyze the effects of recent policies and explore strategies for navigating this ever-changing environment. Challenges and Concerns: Despite these challenges, there are also opportunities for independent physicians to thrive in the reformed healthcare landscape. Here’s how: Healthcare reform presents both challenges and opportunities for independent physicians. By embracing new models of care, leveraging technology, and building strong patient relationships, you can navigate these changes and ensure the continued success of your practice. IndeDocs is here to be your partner in this journey.

In the world of independent practice, success often hinges on building strong relationships with other healthcare providers. Effective networking fosters collaboration, opens doors to new patient referrals, and ultimately improves the overall quality of care you can deliver. At IndeDocs, we understand the importance of these connections, and in this article, we’ll explore strategies for building a robust network and maximizing its benefits. Why Networking Matters: Building a Strong Network: Nurturing Relationships for Continued Success: By actively building and nurturing relationships with other healthcare providers, independent physicians can create a powerful network that benefits both their patients and their practices. IndeDocs is here to support you every step of the way. Let’s build a better future for healthcare, together!

In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, independent physicians are constantly seeking ways to differentiate themselves and deliver superior patient care. Personalized medicine, a revolutionary approach that tailors treatment plans to individual patients, holds immense potential for independent practices. By embracing this future-focused approach, you can empower patients to take ownership of their health and elevate your practice to new heights. Traditional medicine often takes a “one-size-fits-all” approach. However, personalized medicine recognizes that each patient is unique, with their own genetic makeup, lifestyle factors, and response to treatments. This nuanced approach translates into several key advantages for independent practices: How Independent Physicians Can Embrace Personalized Medicine The good news? You don’t need a high-tech lab to get started with personalized medicine. Here are some ways independent physicians can integrate this approach into their practice: At IndeDocs, we understand the challenges and opportunities that independent physicians face. We offer a suite of resources and tools to empower you to embrace personalized medicine: By prioritizing personalized medicine, independent physicians can not only enhance patient care but also future-proof their practices. IndeDocs is here to support you every step of the way. Start your journey today and unlock the immense potential of personalized care for both your patients and your practice.

For independent physicians, maintaining medical licensure and credentialing is a crucial but sometimes complex process. At IndeDocs, we understand the importance of navigating these requirements while maintaining your practice’s independence. This article will explain the process, highlight key requirements, and offer resources to help you stay compliant. Understanding Medical Licensure and Credentialing: The Licensure Process: Maintaining Your License: Maintaining medical licensure and credentialing is an ongoing responsibility for independent physicians. Remember to always consult the official SCBME website for the most accurate and up-to-date information. By staying informed, completing the necessary requirements, and utilizing available resources, you can ensure your independence while guaranteeing patients receive care from a qualified and up-to-date medical professional. IndeDocs is here to support you every step of the way. Helpful Resources for South Carolina Physicians on Medical Licensing and Credentialing Primary Resource:

In the ever-evolving world of medicine, staying current with the latest advancements is crucial for independent physicians. Continuing Medical Education (CME) provides a vital path for lifelong learning, ensuring you can deliver the best possible care to your patients. At IndeDocs, we understand the importance of continuous learning for independent physicians, and in this article, we’ll explore the benefits of CME and offer resources to help you navigate your CME journey. Why CME Matters for Independent Physicians: The World of CME Activities: Current South Carolina Requirements: By actively engaging in CME, independent physicians can remain at the forefront of their field, providing exceptional care for their patients. IndeDocs is committed to supporting your continuous learning journey. Let’s ensure independent medicine thrives on a foundation of knowledge and expertise. 1. It’s essential to check with the South Carolina Board of Medical Examiners (SCBME) for the most up-to-date and specific information. Their website is the authoritative source for CME requirements. Here are some helpful resources:  South Carolina Medical Association (SCMA): Offers CME activities and resources tailored to South Carolina physicians. https://www.scmedical.org American Medical Association (AMA): Provides CME information, resources, and tools for physicians.  CCO https://clinicaloptions.com/content/state-required-cme/south-carolina#:~:text=South%20Carolina%20requires%2040%20hours,controlled%20substances%20for%20authorized%20prescribers

At IndeDocs, we understand the importance of independence for physicians. It allows you to provide the personalized care that your patients deserve. But building a successful independent practice goes beyond just medical expertise. A strong practice culture is essential for attracting and retaining top talent, improving patient satisfaction, and ensuring the long-term viability of your practice.