Look Upon the Doughnut

The last few months have been trying times, filled with much confusion, with information changing daily, with regulations that we all have difficulty understanding. It seems that the bureaucrats in Washington, D.C., are having difficulty in finding a common approach to Medicare, to Medicaid, to Social Security, to a rapidly rising national debt and to resolving our difficulties with terrorists.

While the government's recent actions have had a detrimental effect on the average DME/HME dealer, HHAs and most other health practitioners, this is not the time for sackcloth and ashes. On the contrary, now is when you have to restructure your plans for the future.

Throughout this issue of HomeCare, you'll find lots of suggestions from the experts on how to prepare your business for the times ahead. I ask that you read every word. I know you will get some great ideas.

Yes, when I look into my glass ball, I see a bright future for our profession. But, that future will only take place if you roll up your sleeves and make it happen.

During the 1939 World's Fair in New York, one of my favorite sayings appeared at a coffee and doughnut stand in the amusement center. I no longer remember the name of the company, but I have never forgotten their motto: “As you travel on through life, whatever be your goal, keep your eye upon the doughnut and not upon the hole.”

I have believed that since seeing it. To me, it simply means not being distracted from your goal. Always move forward, and stay on your chosen path. Remember that your company is a community-based provider, and you belong to an honorable profession. Be proud!

Does Your Customer Come First?

I often ask this question of home medical equipment dealers, and invariably I get the same answer: “Of course my customer comes first.”

Yes, your customer comes first, but by the same token, are you driven exclusively by the profit motive? Don't answer this question, but think about its ramifications. You are in business because the profits your company earns support you, your family and those of the employees under your supervision. This is a huge responsibility.

As I see it, a classic example of the profit motive is the role that AARP has taken on the prescription benefit coverage in Medicare reform legislation. The organization was all for it, because AARP has its own mail order pharmacy. The seniors group also sells insurance and other financial programs that are related.