Maximizing patient care services to improve funding in a family medicine residency

The authors discuss ways to increase the funding base of a family medicine residency program through the appropriate use of procedures related to patient care and the provisions of service. Following a commitment of cooperation by residents and faculty members, certain principles of a business practice management curriculum were expanded and applied to a residency program. A written procedure manual describing the intricacies of the fee-for-service system was prepared for interns. Mechanisms for the review of patient care productivity and educationally productive incentives were developed. All of these steps were helpful in achieving improvement in the funding base for the residency. Areas for potential expansion in training programs and financial and staffing strategies to increase revenues are discussed. Although administrative decisions regarding fees and collection mechanisms are mentioned, this discussion focuses on educational and patient care activities that also produce revenue.