Have you ever wondered why everything in life seems to be getting faster and easier, except healthcare?
I just returned from a physical therapy conference in Orlando, something I look forward to each year. It gives me a chance to reset, reconnect with colleagues I only see in person annually, and most importantly, walk away with fresh ideas to bring back to the clinic.
This year’s big question: Why is healthcare still so complicated?
Technology Has Revolutionized Everything, Except Healthcare
Over the past two decades, technology has made our lives more convenient in countless ways. With services like DoorDash, Amazon, Instacart, Uber, and Netflix, we can get almost anything delivered to our doors or devices with just a tap. We expect instant gratification and usually get it.
But when it comes to healthcare? It’s a completely different story.
Just last week, a gentleman came into our office with shoulder pain, hoping to start physical therapy. He has Medicare, which requires a referral from a physician before we can begin treatment. First, he had to book an appointment with his doctor, which took over a week. Then, he had to wait another two days to get an evaluation with us. All in all, two full weeks passed before we could begin helping him with his shoulder.
The Hidden Hurdles of Healthcare
Here are just a few reasons why getting care isn’t simple:
- Red tape and delays: Most insurance plans require referrals, authorizations, or pre-approvals before treatment can start.
- Complex billing: Many patients have more than one insurance plan, leading to confusing questions about who pays for what.
- Unexpected costs: Even with coverage, patients are often left with bills they weren’t prepared for.
These issues aren’t just frustrating. They delay the care people need. And we know how precious time can be when you're in pain.
Our Commitment: Make It Easier, One Step at a Time
My job as the CEO of Park North Physical Therapy is simple in theory: improve outcomes while making the process easier for both patients and staff.
In practice? It’s anything but simple.
But I take this responsibility seriously. Every system we create, every tool we implement, and every decision we make should move us closer to that goal.
That’s why we’ve adopted digital tools like Prompt, a modern EMR system that helps us streamline scheduling, documentation, and billing—cutting down on paperwork and administrative delays that get in the way of your care. We also use PT Wired, which gives our patients a convenient mobile app to access their home exercise programs, track their progress, and stay connected with their therapist between visits.
These tools may not seem like big changes from the outside, but on the inside, they’re helping us build a more connected, efficient, and responsive clinic—one that’s easier to navigate for everyone.
Progress Over Perfection
I could sit here and vent all day about why the healthcare system is so tangled. But I’m reminded of something Elbert Hubbard once said:
“Never explain, your friends don’t need it and your enemies won’t believe you anyway.”
So instead of complaining, we choose to keep improving. We’re always refining, always learning, and always looking for ways to make life easier for the people who trust us with their care.
Convenience may not be our strong suit yet. But every day, we’re doing our best to make things better than they were yesterday.
Need help navigating the healthcare maze?
Let’s make it easier together. Call us at 212-222-6525 or book your appointment online today.
Creative Physical Medicine for Health and Healing.
