Diversify Home Health, Home Care And Hospice Services To Secure Your Agencys Financial Future
Have you ever heard the advice to not put all your eggs in one basket? Well the advice is good, especially if you are a Home Health, Home Care or Hospice agency. Putting all your eggs in one basket in the Home Health, Home Care or Hospice industry means having only one line of business. In todays environment, one line of business is a dangerous path to walk. Already we have seen repeated cuts to the Home Health reimbursement formula, and Hospice is under scrutiny and will probably see some rather dramatic cuts in the future. Some Home Care (Private Pay) agencies are seeing a decline in both clients and hours, as well. Just as the chant location, location, location is cited for a business success, diversification is the same for agencies in the Home Health, Home Care and Hospice industry.
As a Home Health or Hospice agency, you may be asking how you can diversify. You already take private insurance, much of which doesnt even cover your expenses. Where can you diversify?
Years ago, many Home Health agencies invested in private duty services. Unfortunately, many of them tried to run these agencies the same way they ran the Medicare-Certified agencies. This turned out to be a less than a financial success for them and, as a result, most of the agencies closed their Private Pay agencies or sold them. I was one of those administrators running both types of agencies. Fortunately, the corporation that owned the agency I managed understood the differences required to successfully operate these two very distinct businesses. As a result, the internal structures and systems for Private Pay were run with entirely different staff and procedures. Fortunately, the Private Pay agency was a financial success and a great partner for the Medicare business.
In todays environment, it may be wise for Medicare agencies to look again at the Private Pay industry and invest in another line of business that will not be subject to the changes of CMS. This holds true for both Medicare Home Health and the Hospice agencies. The opportunities in a Private Pay agency are endless. The services offered are as open and vast as the community served will support. By using the lessons learned from the previous attempts to diversify into Private Pay, the new line of business makes the difference between surviving and thriving.
For Private Pay (Home Care) agencies, diversification is just as important. By having only one or two lines of business, you will very likely have some down times with loss of revenues. Diversification of services helps to diminish the effects of the decline on your personal care or live-in services. There are so many opportunities in the Private Pay arena, it really is a matter of finding out what your marketplace will support and then developing it in such a manner that your customers will see value and buy.
Over the years I have seen some very creative and innovative Private Pay agency owners create truly unique services that were well received by their communities. One agency had a very viable service line in cruise companions. They had a high end senior population that were used to cruises, but because of declines in health and abilities, many of the seniors could no longer travel. The agency developed a contract with a major cruise line where they provided the personal care workers or aides that accompanied the senior on the cruise. The client paid for all the related cruise expenses as well as the daily live-in rate for the aide. Reportedly a great time was had by all.
Another agency developed a Mom and Babe program that catered to the large number of young, educated families in their geographic area. The program retained the services of an OB-GYN RN, who made the first visit to the home the day after the mother was discharged from the hospital. The aide, who was a trained doula, also accompanied the RN on the first visit. The services were bundled into either 5- or 7-day, 12 hour/day packages that included the RN visit and the 5 or 7 days of the specialty aide. The aide not only cared for the mother and baby, but tended to the home and other children, allowing the new mother and baby to have bonding time. The aide planned and cooked the meals and did the laundry and light housekeeping so that the mother could rest. The program, as mentioned, was sold as a package and made great shower gifts. The aide was available on an hourly rate to continue services beyond the package if the family wished, or her services could be bought by the family directly for however long they were needed.
As you can see, there is no limit to what your agency can provide. With appropriate due diligence and an ability to listen to what your community is seeking and willing to pay for, you can do anything. If youre ready to plan a more secure financial future for your agency, contact us today to discuss the many diverse opportunities that are awaiting you.
Invest In Mutual Funds Or Bank Fixed Deposits
I have often seen people planning to Invest in bank Fixed Deposits rather than Equity related Mutual Funds inspite of the growing Indian Economy and rising stock market. Though the times are changing and people have started looking at Equity Investment schemes, but still its only the minority of people savings going into the equity market.
Indians are skeptic about investing in Equities. Reason behind so is lack of knowledge and general awareness of the benefits. One needs to understand that stock markets are the best way to benefit from a country which economy GDP is growing over 8.5% year on year. Stock market basically resembles a Nation’s financial condition which of India is going to get better n better.
Indian Money Is Way Too Conservative
Fact figures suggests that 48% of total American savings goes for investing in schemes related to equities. On the other hand the fact figure for Indian savings money routed to equities stands at a merely small total of just 2%. No wonder, both the Indian Government and leading Indian Stock Exchanges are always keen to generate interest and awareness within the common people indicating towards the benefit of investing in equities for the long term.
Its the lack of Financial Education which keeps Indian savings money away from the Equities, since they are not ever formally introduced to financial planning and Investing. Majority of people believes that small investors cannot earn money from stock market, which absolutely is just a myth and nothing more.
Indian Investors still prefers the traditional way of Investment like Fixed Deposits. In fact Fixed Deposits are so famous and traditional that, during daughters marriage, father often gifts Fixed Deposits!
What Is A Bank Fixed Deposit?
A fixed-income debt security issued by banks. A Fixed Deposit is like loaning the bank your money and in return, they pay you interest which is currently between 8-9.5% p.a.
At this interest rates your money will double approx in 7-8 years. Too less, too late? Read on
Why You Should Not Be Investing In Fixed Deposits?
The most unusual characteristic of a fixed deposit is that the funds cannot be withdrawn for a specified period of time which is usually 3 years since deposit for any reason.
Changes in the going interest rate may also rise to a point above and beyond the interest rate applied to existing deposits done with the banks. This means account holders are actually earning less interest with fixed deposits than with other types of products.
What is a Mutual Fund?
A Mutual Fund is a investment scheme maintained and run by professional fund managers working under the name of a Financial Institute or a Fund House. Money is being collected from different and many investors and then collectively put in a pool account from where the fund managers makes Buy and Sell trades according to there own group research and investment objectives.
Dalal Street people prefers you thinking that what they do with your money is some rocket science and you are absolutely not the right person to take your own financial decision so that they keep earning fat commissions for themselves you being entrusting them your hard earned money.
Though its a different case that of course you can also invest your money yourself with little bit of research and with the help of expert Indian stock advisory services like Winfromus which generates higher returns than the different Mutual Fund schemes.
But never the less, there are some real good fund managers out there too, doing what they are best at and most of the good names has been successfully generating 13-15% Compounded Annual Growth Returns (CAGR) since the past 5-6 years.
CAGR Projection over the next 3 years from Indian Stock Markets
Conservative projection suggests that the Indian markets can deliver CAGR of 15-18% over the next 3 years and optimistic like me expects 20% CAGR over the next 3 years with the right selected stocks and sectors.
20% CAGR is not just a dream, but it is also fundamentally backed by growing GDP, country’s financial condition and over all economical and business development which is on course and expected to grow at a descent pace.
Fixed Deposits Returns are Guaranteed, Mutual Funds Are Not – What about my money safety?
Well, for a matter of fact nobody can guarantee you returns while investing in equity via any possible way, since it involves risk. But theres a way to cut the risk virtually to Zero levels and still get benefited the most. The secret is Systematic Investment Planning (SIP).
Systematic Investment allows you to stay invested without worrying to time the markets or about the volatility we see in stock market. In fact SIP works out best when markets are volatile. The funda of systematic investing works on a simple formula invented by world’s most genius ever Albert Einstein – Power of Compounding.
While SIP, rupee cost averaging and compounding of returns/interest earned on principle over a period of time compounds together and puts significant impact on wealth creation over the long run and stock market being a cyclical asset, it is very likely that you will see a higher end where you may take profits and then go conservative.
Do you know how much money can be made on investment of just Rs 10,000/- per month at a CAGR of 20%? I have done the maths, here’s the result –
* Rs 10k/month Invested for 5 years at 20% CAGR to become 10 lacs
* Rs 10k/month Invested for 10 years at 20% CAGR to become 35 lacs
* Rs 10k/month Invested for 15 years at 20% CAGR to become 95 lacs
* Rs 10k/month Invested for 20 years at 20% CAGR to become 2.4 crore
Eventually In 25 years 10000/month @ 20% CAGR (compounded annual growth rate) to become 6.1 crores and in 30 years 10000/month @ 20% CAGR to become a whopping 15 crores. The longer you invest, the higher would get your returns.
Think Mature, Aim Higher, Plan and Set A Goal…
Fixed Deposits cannot generate the kind of returns stock markets will and theres no doubt about it. If you are young and want to Invest and grow your money big, equities are the way to go. Don’t be skeptic and look at the brighter side of investing in Stock Market, you don’t get such money making opportunity in a lifetime.
Returns of fixed deposits may not even beat Inflation rates, then whats the use of saving money in them and allowing money to sit idle to generate lesser returns on investment when a simple SIP in equities can do a better performance for your money? Think about it..
Happy Investing!!
[Top]Business Credit Line Funding On Remote Control Asset Based Lending And Funding Delivers
Business credit line funding needs can be achieved in more ways than one. The concept of having your funding needs on a ‘ remote control ‘ should be very appealing to most business owners / financial managers. Asset based lending via ‘ ABL ‘ credit lines is one way to put your company on cash flow auto pilot. Here’s how. Let’s dig in.
Businesses requiring SME COMMERCIAL FINANCE funding for cash flow are always challenged by the requirements of our somewhat monopolistic banking system in Canada. The strength, market dominance, and the regulated nature of our banks make it often difficult for companies who are even doing quite well to achieve some or all of the financing they need. Simply speaking they fall ‘ outside the box ‘ when it comes to requirements that include profits, cash flows, clean balance sheets, etc.
The banks requirement of covenants in cash flow, debt, profits, equity simply can sometimes not be always met, and these are typically a written part of your bank arrangements. Firms who fall ‘ out of covenant ‘ with their bank often find themselves feeling not so ‘ special ‘ when they are placed in Special Loans Default dept’s at the bank .
By utilizing your firms current and fixed assets asset based lines of credit allow you to leave your business on a kind of ‘ auto pilot ‘ for cash flow financing. That’s because the combination of accounts receivable, inventory and fixed assets allow you to monetize those assets into one single borrowing base that revolves and can be drawn down according to your cash flow needs.
When properly managed and utilized (and structured in advance!) this type of cash flow funding allows you to”
Finance operations
Engage larger clients/ larger orders/contracts
Finance inventory which in many bank circumstances is sometimes not achievable
Typically you would never use your revolving asset based credit line as a mechanism to acquire new assets – this is typically done via equipment leases or bridge loans that sometimes are more applicable when a firm is in a financing transition.
By the way, in a merger and acquisition scenario the Asset Based Credit Line is an excellent way to successfully acquire a target company.
How does the ongoing access to liquidity work in Asset based lending? A/R is often financed at 90%, and inventory borrowing margins, while depending on the type of inventory class (raw materials, work in process, finished goods) can range from 25-75% borrowing power. Should a business choose to monetize fixed assets as part of their revolving credit facility typically a third party appraisal/valuation is required.
It should be noted that ongoing reporting requirements are typical of an asset based line of credit – in some cases owners/managers might find rigorous monthly ( sometimes weekly ) reporting as a ‘ downside ‘ of ABL cash flow financing . While 99% of the time pricing on these facilities is higher than bank credit the alternative is a liquidity crisis for ongoing operations of growth.
We’ve shown how not all business credit lines are not created equal. If you’re prepared to investigate the applicability of asset based lending to your business seek out and speak to a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can assist you with your funding needs.
Stan Prokop
[Top]Tips For Choosing Reliable Financial Planners
Choosing a Sydney financial planner that is right for you can be very difficult and somewhat confusing task. Financial services in Sydney are numerous but naturally you want someone you can trust with planning your cash flow. So knowing where to start from requires some basic pointers.
Before starting your search for experts take some time to analyze what your current fiscal situation is. There are many free calculators available on the internet that can aid you to start determining your actual fiscal position. In addition, this will also assist you get an exact idea of just what sort of support and guidance you are looking for from the expert.
Next important thing is that you need to have an idea of what your objectives are for making economic blueprints. This will allow you to further determine what sort of advice and help you are looking from a professional. There are infinite areas in which you may require professional help. For instance, you only need help to plan for your retirement. Or on the other side, you may be seeking for assistance in all fields so that you can have a reasonably secure future.
Now when you are done with these foundational works, you need to take out time to research before employing an adviser. There are some important things to keep in consideration that will help you choose on the best match for you. First and most important ensure that the service provider has the proper license that is very essential.
Secondly, you need to investigate and explore the experience that the financial planner has. Find out how long the service provider has been in the business and in what fields they are experienced in. Depending on what sort of services you are looking for, you need to ensure that they have enough experience in the particular field. Choosing a financial service provider that is experienced in all fields can be helpful for your business and its growth. Therefore, you must ensure that you do not make any decision without doing your homework.
Any service provider that you choose to employ it is suggested that you ask for references and check whether their previous clients and customers were satisfied or not. Or you can also ask recommendations from your friends and business partners.
Not only this, find out how much the company charges for their services. For example, you need to know is this a fee for service provider or do the concerned company takes a commission from providers or so on. Be definite that you are comfortable the charges asked by the planner.
Last, but not the least you must check the qualification and education of the advisor with whom you want to work with. It is quite important that the expert has advanced degrees so that they can proficiently handle all situations. Hope, these above mentioned tips will help you to choose the best financial planner in the town.
[Top]Male Organ Bumps – When Not to be Concerned
One or more bumps on the male organ are bound to cause a man concern, whether they’ve always been there or appeared suddenly. Generally, if male organ bumps appear all of a sudden, it’s a good idea to get checked out; they could indicate a partner-transmitted infection or some other cause of poor male organ health. However, not all bumps pose a health risk or are contagious. Below, men can learn about three types of male organ bumps that are harmless.
Pearly Papules
It is estimated that approximately a quarter of men have what are called pearly papules; the majority of men with this type of bump are uncut. The bumps are small and white or flesh-colored. They are distinct in that they form in one or more rows around the ridge of the male organ’s head, almost like a pearl necklace. The bumps range from 1 to 3 millimeters.
Pearly papules are a completely normal anatomical variation; they pose no risks and are not the sign of a problem. Still, some men are extremely self-conscious about the bumps and want to have them removed. The only way to do so is to have them cut or frozen off. This is an absolute last resort, since the papules are harmless.
Fordyce Spots
Some men have small white or yellow bumps along the male organ shaft and/or on the head called Fordyce spots. They’re oil glands that produce oil to lubricate the skin, and they are harmless. Fordyce spots can’t be spread, their cause is known and there is no treatment besides surgery.
Surgery isn’t recommended for Fordyce spots because, as with pearly papules, these bumps pose no risks. Procedures to surgically remove these bumps are not always successful, and sometimes they result in scarring. Men should consider whether it’s worth the risk.
Acne
Acne on the male organ? Yes, it can happen. As with skin on other parts of the body, male organ skin contains pores, and each pore contains an oil gland; when a gland produces too much oil, it clogs the pore, trapping dirt, skin cells and bacteria. The result is a pimple.
Pimples range in size and typically have a white or black head. They tend to be sore, and the bump itself along with the surrounding area might be red. Men may find it particularly painful if the pimple rubs up against clothing.
Though unpleasant, the occasional pimple on the male organ isn’t any major cause for concern. If acne is constant, men should consider talking with a doctor about potential treatments or prevention methods. Traditional treatment for acne involves salicylic acid, but this might be too harsh for the delicate male organ skin.
It should be noted that a common partner-transmitted infection can be mistaken for pimples. Therefore, if there is absolutely any doubt as to what a man is seeing, he should get checked out.
While most people think it wise to pop pimples, squeezing can actually drive the infection deeper into the skin. Difficult as it may be, men are advised to let pimples heal on their own. Avoid solo or partner play while the pimple is present to prevent friction on it.
Overall Skin Health
Men with normal skin variations shouldn’t be concerned or self-conscious about their members. What’s important is the health of the tool. While the types of bumps above are nothing to fret about, it’s good to mind the overall condition of the skin. Sometimes, the skin can grow dry and develop cracks. Using a quality male organ health crme (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) with Shea butter and vitamin E can be helpful in this area. Keeping the skin smooth and hydrated will reap benefits, whether the male organ has bumps or not.
Visit www.menshealthfirst.com for more information most common male organ health issues, tips on improving male organ sensitivity, and what to do to maintain a healthy male organ. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men’s health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous online web sites.
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