American Orthopedic Partners is dedicated to helping local physicians and surgeons deliver top-tier orthopedic care to their communities. We understand that bringing on a management services organization is a major decision, so we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions to address common concerns.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my practice needs AOP’s support?
Our support is suited for orthopedic practices that are struggling to keep up with strategic and operational tasks or regularly face business challenges. A consultation can help determine if our services are right for you.
How long will it take for my practice to join AOP?
Typically, new orthopedic practices join AOP within six to nine months. Your practice’s individual timeline will depend on your organization’s level of readiness.
What does the joining process entail?
AOP’s process begins with an initial consultation to discuss goals, share preliminary information, and determine if this partnership is a match. If so, both parties will sign a non-disclosure agreement and start sharing business data. During this phase, we’ll continue to get ot know each other and work together to establish the terms of our partnership. We’ll then develop a non-binding letter of intent (LOI) that includes the major substantive terms and pricing. Then, we’ll conduct our due diligence process to verify, analyze, and audit the major aspects of your practice’s operations and finances. Once this process is complete, we'll draft the legal agreements and determine a closing date and the first day of our partnership.
In general, what are the corporate costs that AOP assigns to a practice?
AOP does not assign a general corporate overhead factor to our partner practices. Instead, we allocate costs for the services provided, along with any direct expenses such as legal fees, accounting, IT, or physician recruitment. Operating expenses will remain in the hands of our partner practices.
Will day-to-day clinical operations remain under my practice’s control?
Yes. We do not interfere with your clinical operations, community and hospital relationships, or staffing and compensation plans.
Beyond integrating specific functions and implementing new systems, what operational changes will AOP make?
AOP will correct any issues, vulnerabilities, or challenges found during our due diligence process. We’ll tailor our support to ensure your practice is compliant with all state and federal regulatory requirements, and we will hold discussions with your leadership team to develop growth initiatives, investment plans, and talent development programs.
What services do you offer to orthopedic practices?
We focus on operational, financial, and strategic services, and support the following business functions:
- Strategic growth
- Business operations
- IT and security
- Contracting and financial optimization
- Clinical excellence and quality
What does AOP look for in a practice partner?
We look for healthy orthopedic practices that want to grow. Our team values the following attributes:
- Well-run, effective management
- Good leadership with democratic processes
- A wider ownership structure of more than two executives
- Strong financial performance
- High market share and patient satisfaction
- Well-trained clinicians
- A supportive, positive, and nurturing culture
- Solid hospital relationships
- Alignment with AOP’s values and vision
Which functions of my practice will be integrated into AOP?
We handle the following functions:
- Finance
- Accounting
- Banking
- Human resources
- Benefits management
- Information technology (IT)
- Data analytics
- Reporting
- Insurance and risk management
- Legal and compliance