Medtrade West preview: Getting back on track

PHOENIX – One of the biggest questions HME leaders may have as they step back out into the post-pandemic landscape is, “Now what?” 

It’s a fair question for sure, and HME consultants like Miriam Lieber will be addressing it during Medtrade West in Phoenix, July 12-13. Lieber’s session focuses on “Best Practices in a COVID World – A Reality Check,” designed to help HME providers navigate the uncertainty that lies ahead. 

“COVID taught us to be versatile, to communicate with staff constantly and consistently, and to lead the way we would want others to emulate,” she said, adding that it is critical to “stay focused, transparent and vulnerable.” 

A primary concern for leaders is how to address the year-long adjustments that were necessary during the height of the pandemic. Lieber says leaders should thoroughly assess what worked during the past year and whether it should be part of a new business model. 

The key, she said, is to “make sure your staff has the resources they need to succeed.” 

“Stay abreast of changes in your coverage territory and disseminate information directly to the staff,” she said. “Protect your staff at all costs.” 

Staff working from home should be allowed to continue to do so, if they meet goals and expectations, and check-in mechanisms such as Slack should be continued, though Lieber cautions “don’t let staff abuse the privilege.” 

Lieber also recommends that leaders invest in technology and automation that provides more flexibility. 

“Automation that allowed for rapid change and versatility made last year work more seamlessly than anyone expected,” she said. “Further, it segregated those who thrived in a work-from-home setting from those who were unable to get phone systems, Internet connectivity and, in many cases, provision of laptops at home.”