{"id":32346,"date":"2025-08-18T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-08-18T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/?p=32346"},"modified":"2025-09-15T11:55:12","modified_gmt":"2025-09-15T15:55:12","slug":"cost-containment-in-healthcare-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/cost-containment-in-healthcare-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"A guide to cost containment in healthcare organizations"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--generic\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/category\/strategy-legal-operations\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">Strategy, Legal &amp; Operations<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tA guide to cost containment in healthcare organizations\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2025-08-18T09:00:00-04:00\">August 18, 2025<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"A guide to cost containment in healthcare organizations\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/cost-containment-in-healthcare-guide\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/header>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/author\/joechurchwoods\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/05\/Joe-Yard-2-crop-350x350.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" alt=\"Joe Church Woods\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Joe Church Woods<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Healthcare leaders like you can face mounting financial pressures while striving to sustain operations and deliver exceptional care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Operational expenses are rising and there is an increased demand for better outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cost containment in healthcare is now essential for reducing costs, but it can also improve the quality of care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This guide provides a practical overview to help you manage expenses without compromising patient outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll find clear explanations of cost containment fundamentals, key benefits, common challenges, and proven strategies you can apply to drive long-term success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Here&#8217;s what we&#8217;ll cover:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-what-is-cost-containment-in-healthcare\" data-level=\"2\">What is cost containment in healthcare?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-why-is-cost-containment-important-in-healthcare\" data-level=\"2\">Why is cost containment important in healthcare?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-benefits-of-reducing-healthcare-costs\" data-level=\"2\">Benefits of reducing healthcare costs<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-1-improved-patient-access-and-affordability\" data-level=\"3\">1. Improved patient access and affordability<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-2-smarter-resource-allocation\" data-level=\"3\">2. Smarter resource allocation<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-3-healthier-financial-performance\" data-level=\"3\">3. Healthier financial performance<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-4-more-efficient-and-satisfied-staff\" data-level=\"3\">4. More efficient and satisfied staff<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-common-barriers-to-cost-optimization-in-healthcare\" data-level=\"2\">Common barriers to cost optimization in healthcare<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-1-limited-data-transparency\" data-level=\"3\">1. Limited data transparency<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-2-opaque-reimbursement\" data-level=\"3\">2. Opaque reimbursement<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-3-outdated-manual-processes\" data-level=\"3\">3. Outdated manual processes<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-4-fragmented-systems\" data-level=\"3\">4. Fragmented systems<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-5-resistance-to-operational-change\" data-level=\"3\">5. Resistance to operational change<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-cost-reduction-strategies-in-healthcare-what-works\" data-level=\"2\">Cost reduction strategies in healthcare: What works?<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-1-conduct-utilization-reviews\" data-level=\"3\">1. Conduct utilization reviews<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-2-automate-financial-operations\" data-level=\"3\">2. Automate financial operations<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-3-analyze-labor-costs-and-productivity\" data-level=\"3\">3. Analyze labor costs and productivity<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-4-educate-staff-and-patients-on-cost-awareness\" data-level=\"3\">4. Educate staff and patients on cost awareness<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-5-streamline-the-supply-chain\" data-level=\"3\">5. Streamline the supply chain<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-6-focus-on-service-line-profitability\" data-level=\"3\">6. Focus on service line profitability<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-7-implement-telemedicine-and-options-for-virtual-care\" data-level=\"3\">7. Implement telemedicine and options for virtual care<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-8-optimize-care-delivery-through-value-based-or-bundled-payment-models\" data-level=\"3\">8. Optimize care delivery through value-based or bundled payment models<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-integrated-tools-for-cost-containment\" data-level=\"2\">Integrated tools for cost containment<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-leverage-automation-to-save-time-and-reduce-errors\" data-level=\"3\">Leverage automation to save time and reduce errors<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-use-real-time-data-to-drive-smarter-decisions\" data-level=\"3\">Use real-time data to drive smarter decisions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-who-should-be-involved-in-the-cost-containment-process\" data-level=\"2\">Who should be involved in the cost containment process?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-how-to-reduce-healthcare-costs-in-hospitals-implementation-tips\" data-level=\"2\">How to reduce healthcare costs in hospitals&mdash;implementation tips<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-1-audit-your-current-spending\" data-level=\"3\">1. Audit your current spending<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-2-set-benchmarks-and-kpis\" data-level=\"3\">2. Set benchmarks and KPIs<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-3-involve-all-stakeholders\" data-level=\"3\">3. Involve all stakeholders<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-4-monitor-review-and-adapt-regularly\" data-level=\"3\">4. Monitor, review, and adapt regularly<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-how-sage-intacct-helps-with-cost-containment-in-healthcare\" data-level=\"2\">How Sage Intacct helps with cost containment in healthcare<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-cloud-based-erp-integration\" data-level=\"3\">Cloud-based ERP integration<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-comprehensive-financial-picture\" data-level=\"3\">Comprehensive financial picture<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-labor-productivity-and-roi\" data-level=\"3\">Labor productivity and ROI<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-supply-chain-management\" data-level=\"3\">Supply chain management<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-budgeting-and-planning\" data-level=\"3\">Budgeting and planning<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-regulatory-compliance\" data-level=\"3\">Regulatory compliance<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-final-thoughts-on-cost-containment-in-healthcare\" data-level=\"2\">Final thoughts on cost containment in healthcare<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Case Study &#8211; West Harbor Healthcare<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p class=\"\">West Harbor Healthcare Nursing Home Operator Cuts Budgeting Time 50%, Gains Breakthrough Business Insights<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-69498eef-2812-4985-bb30-60280494510a\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Download<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1285289807-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Two female health workers working on report\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1285289807-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-cost-containment-in-healthcare\">What is cost containment in healthcare?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Cost containment in healthcare is an essential part of your remit. You need to create strategic practices to control or reduce expenses without compromising the quality of patient care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is a balancing act, requiring you to pinpoint your business inefficiencies, use resources more effectively, and create a more sustainable system for the long term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Strategies for cost containment can range from streamlining administrative processes to implementing data-driven clinical decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Some practical examples that you can try include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Optimize labor costs by analyzing key metrics such as staffing levels, patient volume, and acuity, and then implementing strategies like cross-training to increase productivity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strengthen your financial visibility and reporting to track KPIs, identify trends, and make decisions in real-time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improve supply chain efficiency by centralizing purchasing, tracking inventory, and consolidating your supplier contracts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduce your administrative overhead by automating back-end processes like billing, AP\/AR, and payroll, and using AI tools to reduce denials and improve collections.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>By identifying what drives your costs and applying targeted strategies, you can control spending while improving the patient experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-is-cost-containment-important-in-healthcare\">Why is cost containment important in healthcare?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The need to carefully manage healthcare costs has never been more urgent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services, U.S. healthcare spending reached nearly $4.5 trillion in 2022 and continues to rise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What\u2019s driving these escalating costs?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A growing prevalence of patients with chronic conditions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Declining insurance reimbursements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shifting Federal and State regulatory requirements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Uncertainty around the impact of Tariffs on the cost of supplies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Administrative inefficiencies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As a healthcare finance leader, you see how these rising costs affect everyone every day\u2014patients, providers, and payers alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unchecked spending can lead to budget shortfalls, resource constraints, and staffing challenges for your organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For patients, it often results in higher out-of-pocket expenses, delayed care, or increased financial strain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Prioritizing cost containment allows you to:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sustain operations during periods of economic uncertainty<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Broaden access to essential services<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strengthen negotiating power with suppliers and insurers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Build trust and satisfaction among both staff and patients<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-benefits-of-reducing-healthcare-costs\">Benefits of reducing healthcare costs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Strategic cost reduction can drive meaningful improvements across your entire organization. When implemented thoughtfully, it supports both financial sustainability and quality care delivery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-improved-patient-access-and-affordability\">1. Improved patient access and affordability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Lowering costs at your healthcare organization can make your services more accessible to a broader patient population, improving health outcomes and strengthening your role in the community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-smarter-resource-allocation\">2. Smarter resource allocation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With better cost control, you can direct funds <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/resource-allocation-in-healthcare\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">where they\u2019re needed most<\/a>\u2014whether that\u2019s clinical staff, technology upgrades, or diagnostic tools\u2014maximizing the impact of your resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-healthier-financial-performance\">3. Healthier financial performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Effective cost containment leads to more substantial cash flow and healthier margins, giving you more flexibility to invest in innovations, expand services, or weather financial uncertainty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-more-efficient-and-satisfied-staff\">4. More efficient and satisfied staff<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Streamlined operations reduce administrative burdens, allowing your clinical team to focus on patient care. This approach can improve job satisfaction and help reduce burnout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-common-barriers-to-cost-optimization-in-healthcare\">Common barriers to cost optimization in healthcare<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Even with the best intentions, achieving cost optimization can be challenging. Here are some of the five most common obstacles you may encounter:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-limited-data-transparency\">1. Limited data transparency<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When financial and operational data isn\u2019t readily accessible or updated in real time, it can obscure how resources are being used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This lack of visibility can hinder your decision-making around staffing, spending, and strategic planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Improving data transparency empowers you to identify inefficiencies and make informed choices that support cost containment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-opaque-reimbursement\">2. Opaque reimbursement<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Unclear or inconsistent reimbursement from insurers makes revenue forecasting difficult for healthcare finance teams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Without <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-revenue-cycle-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">predictable payment structures<\/a>, your teams will struggle to plan budgets, allocate resources, or invest in long-term improvements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This can lead to financial instability and missed opportunities for cost optimization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-outdated-manual-processes\">3. Outdated manual processes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Manual workflows such as billing, scheduling, and reporting can slow down your operations and increase the likelihood of errors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These inefficiencies often lead to missed billing opportunities, issues with patient scheduling, and delays in understanding the financial health of the business, resulting in unnecessary financial losses and strain on staff resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-fragmented-systems\">4. Fragmented systems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Critical cost-saving insights often fall through the cracks when your financial, clinical, and operational systems don\u2019t communicate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This lack of integration makes collaboration challenging and hinders your ability to implement coordinated organization-wide improvements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-resistance-to-operational-change\">5. Resistance to operational change<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Introducing new technologies or workflows often meets resistance, especially when staff feel disconnected from the planning process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Without buy-in, even the most promising initiatives can stall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Identifying these barriers early can help you take proactive steps to address them\u2014laying the groundwork for more effective, organization-wide cost containment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cost-reduction-strategies-in-healthcare-what-works\">Cost reduction strategies in healthcare: What works?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for practical ways to control expenses without compromising care, consider these eight strategies to help your organization operate more efficiently and sustainably:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-conduct-utilization-reviews\">1. Conduct utilization reviews<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Evaluate your clinical services regularly to identify and eliminate unnecessary or duplicate procedures. This helps ensure your resources are being used efficiently and effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-automate-financial-operations\">2. Automate financial operations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Implement cloud-based ERP systems like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/sage-business-cloud\/intacct\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sage Intacct<\/a> to consolidate operations, automate routine financial tasks, and leverage predictive analytics for smarter decision-making.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Automation also streamlines accounts payable, financial reporting, and spend management, reducing errors and freeing up staff time for strategic work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-analyze-labor-costs-and-productivity\">3. Analyze labor costs and productivity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Use workforce analytics to understand labor productivity and optimize staffing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Evaluate whether the right clinicians deliver the right services to maximize revenue and patient satisfaction, or if lower-cost staff can perform specific tasks to control labor costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-educate-staff-and-patients-on-cost-awareness\">4. Educate staff and patients on cost awareness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Promote a culture of cost transparency by training your staff on the financial impact of clinical decisions and engaging patients in understanding their care expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This will foster collaboration and support informed, cost-conscious choices across your organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-streamline-the-supply-chain\">5. Streamline the supply chain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Use data-driven procurement and vendor consolidation to control spending and increase visibility into your medical supplies inventory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just-in-time ordering, integrated supply chain systems, and cloud-based tools help you manage your supply chain efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-focus-on-service-line-profitability\">6. Focus on service line profitability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Conduct deeper analyses of cost-per-case and contribution margins by service line to identify high-performing areas and underperforming services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Prioritize investments in high-margin specialties and use planning tools like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/sage-business-cloud\/intacct\/product-capabilities\/extended-capabilities\/financial-planning-budgeting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sage Intacct Planning<\/a> to model and predict performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By combining these strategies with the right technology and focusing on informed decision-making, you can reduce costs while maintaining high standards of patient care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-7-implement-telemedicine-and-options-for-virtual-care\">7. Implement telemedicine and options for virtual care<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Virtual visits minimize overhead, reduce no-show rates, and improve access to care\u2014especially for patients in remote or underserved areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-8-optimize-care-delivery-through-value-based-or-bundled-payment-models\">8. Optimize care delivery through value-based or bundled payment models<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Shift from volume-based to value-based reimbursement, rewarding providers for quality outcomes rather than the number of services delivered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Align your financial operations with quality metrics and maximize bundled payments for better financial performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You may also consider bundled payment models to streamline billing processes, establish predictable pricing, and reduce administrative workload.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These approaches can improve <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/guide-to-healthcare-financial-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">financial management<\/a> while enhancing the experience for both your care teams and your patients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Hunter Health cures its financial inefficiencies with Sage Intacct<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p class=\"\">The multi-location community health center puts its faith in Sage software to enable a lean accounting team to keep up with 40% growth<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/success-stories\/hunter-health\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tid=\"cta-id-16698\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata-button-location=\"cta_box\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Download<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1215\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1404962439-1215x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1404962439-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-integrated-tools-for-cost-containment\">Integrated tools for cost containment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you looking for the right tools to support your cost containment efforts?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Technology can play a critical role in helping you streamline operations, reduce waste, and make informed financial decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-leverage-automation-to-save-time-and-reduce-errors\">Leverage automation to save time and reduce errors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Automating manual tasks, such as invoicing, purchasing, and financial reporting, minimizes the risk of human error and frees your team to focus on higher-value work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-use-real-time-data-to-drive-smarter-decisions\">Use real-time data to drive smarter decisions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With real-time visibility into your cash flow, labor costs, and operational spending, you can quickly identify inefficiencies and take action before they impact your bottom line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Popular tools to consider include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/industry\/healthcare\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Healthcare-specific ERP platforms<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Spend management and procurement software<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cloud-based AI-powered financial reporting systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>HIPAA-<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/sage-business-cloud\/intacct\/industry\/healthcare\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">compliance and audit trail tools<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-who-should-be-involved-in-the-cost-containment-process\">Who should be involved in the cost containment process?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Successful cost containment depends on collaboration across departments. To make a real impact, involve key stakeholders who can align financial, clinical, and operational priorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Key stakeholders to include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Finance teams: <\/strong>your CFOs and finance directors should be responsible for budgeting, forecasting, and analyzing costs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clinical and operational managers: <\/strong>these leaders are critical in aligning cost-saving initiatives with patient care goals and day-to-day operations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>HR and benefits administrators:<\/strong> involve HR in evaluating employee benefit programs and identifying opportunities to manage healthcare-related expenses.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>IT and compliance teams: <\/strong>these teams help ensure your systems are secure, integrated, and compliant with data standards\u2014essential for accurate reporting and cost tracking.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-reduce-healthcare-costs-in-hospitals-implementation-tips\">How to reduce healthcare costs in hospitals\u2014implementation tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ready to get started? Follow these steps to set your cost containment plan in motion:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-audit-your-current-spending\">1. Audit your current spending<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by reviewing your operational expenses, vendor contracts, and workforce productivity comprehensively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This will give you a clear picture of where your money is going and where savings opportunities exist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-set-benchmarks-and-kpis\">2. Set benchmarks and KPIs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Define specific <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/important-healthcare-kpis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">performance indicators<\/a> to track progress across departments. Clear metrics help you stay focused and measure the impact of your efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-involve-all-stakeholders\">3. Involve all stakeholders<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Effective change requires transparency and collaboration. Engage frontline staff and key decision-makers early to build buy-in and ensure smoother implementation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-monitor-review-and-adapt-regularly\">4. Monitor, review, and adapt regularly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Cost containment isn\u2019t a one-time initiative. Continuously evaluate your strategies, adjust as needed, and align your approach with your organization\u2019s evolving goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-sage-intacct-helps-with-cost-containment-in-healthcare\">How Sage Intacct helps with cost containment in healthcare<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to reducing costs and improving financial management in healthcare, Sage Intacct offers you a suite of integrated solutions designed to streamline operations, optimize resources, and maintain compliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s how it can support your organization:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cloud-based-erp-integration\">Cloud-based ERP integration<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Sage Intacct helps healthcare finance leaders consolidate operations, finance, and compliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It automates manual processes to reduce administrative overhead and leverages predictive analytics for accurate forecasting and effective cost containment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-comprehensive-financial-picture\">Comprehensive financial picture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/sage-business-cloud\/intacct\/product-capabilities\/extended-capabilities\/emrconnect\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sage Intacct integrates data from EMR systems<\/a> into the broader financial landscape, clearly understanding the true cost of delivering patient care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This holistic view includes billing for services and labor costs, material costs, and overhead expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-labor-productivity-and-roi\">Labor productivity and ROI<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With Sage Intacct, you can analyze labor productivity and determine the ROI on full-time equivalents (FTEs).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use this insight to ensure the right clinicians provide the right services to maximize billing or identify opportunities to delegate certain procedures to lower-cost staff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-supply-chain-management\">Supply chain management<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Sage Inventory module and Clinical eProcurement product facilitate supply chain management and integrate seamlessly with financial systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This provides a real-time view of the impact of supply chain decisions on overall costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-budgeting-and-planning\">Budgeting and planning<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Model and predict performance using advanced budgeting and planning tools like Sage Intacct Planning. This feature helps you align resources and investments with your strategic goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-regulatory-compliance\">Regulatory compliance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Sage Intacct is HIPAA and HITECH-compliant, helping you protect patient privacy, comply with industry regulations, and maintain cost-efficient operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-thoughts-on-cost-containment-in-healthcare\">Final thoughts on cost containment in healthcare<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Effectively <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/industry\/healthcare\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">managing healthcare<\/a> costs involves building a stronger, more sustainable, and patient-focused organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By putting thoughtful cost-reduction strategies into action and leveraging the right tools, you can improve financial performance while continuing to deliver high-quality care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start today by auditing your current spending, involving your team, and identifying opportunities to streamline operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With a clear plan and the right systems, cost containment becomes a strategic advantage\u2014not just a financial necessity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you ready to take the next step? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Explore how our trusted <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/industry\/healthcare\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">healthcare accounting and management software<\/a> can help you increase efficiency, reduce costs, and maintain compliance\u2014all while supporting better outcomes for your patients and your organization.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Subscribe to our Sage Advice Newsletter<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Get our latest business advice delivered directly to your inbox.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-ab515c6e-7e90-4c2f-a67e-113872516e8b\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Subscribe<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Working from home with tea in hand\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<section class=\"more-topics alignfull has-grey-light-background-color wp-block-sage-post-topics\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-4\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"more-topics__title h2\">Browse more topics from this article<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-8\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"post-tags__list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/business-continuity\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBusiness Continuity\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/business-strategy\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBusiness strategy\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/cash-flow\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCash Flow\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/cloud-financial-management\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCloud financial management\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/leadership\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLeadership\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<div class=\"alignfull wp-block-sage-related-posts\">\n\t<section class=\"related-posts card-grid has-dark-background-color\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--featured h1\">Explore more wisdom<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-0 post-29306 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-accounting-101 tag-boss-your-business tag-business-continuity tag-small-business business_type-small-business card-post--is-clickable\"\n>\n\t<div class=\"card-post__media-wrapper\">\n\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1215\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1415809513-1215x810.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1415809513-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1415809513-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1415809513-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"card-post__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__label\">Recommended<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-12T10:24:32-04:00\">June 12, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">9 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__title-link\"\n\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-a-purchase-order\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWhat is a purchase order (PO) and how is it used?\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"card-post__description\">\n\t\t\t\tIf your business buys from suppliers, purchase orders are one of the most important controls you have. Learn what a purchase order includes, how it works, and when to use each type.\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__non-featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--more h4\">More on this Topic<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-1 post-29310 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations category-technology-innovation tag-artificial-intelligence tag-automation tag-boss-your-business tag-cash-flow tag-cloud-financial-management tag-sage-accounting business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/order-to-cash-process-otc-o2c\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1190223207-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-10T12:23:35-04:00\">June 10, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">12 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tWhat is the Order to Cash process?\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-2 post-28210 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-growth-customers category-strategy-legal-operations tag-boss-your-business tag-business-intelligence tag-business-strategy tag-distribution tag-growing-a-business tag-inventory-management tag-productivity tag-supply-chain-management business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business industry-distribution industry-wholesale-distribution\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-order-processing\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-841574854-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-841574854-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-841574854-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-841574854-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-02T11:22:21-04:00\">June 2, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">19 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tOrder processing explained: Steps, systems and best practices\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-3 post-28775 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-business-strategy tag-cash-flow tag-growing-a-business tag-small-business business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business industry-nonprofit\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/peer-to-peer-fundraising-best-practices\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1414263386-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1414263386-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1414263386-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1414263386-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-02T05:54:37-04:00\">June 2, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">15 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tPeer-to-peer fundraising guide: Best practices for success\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-4 post-29487 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-accounting-101 tag-boss-your-business tag-business-continuity tag-business-intelligence tag-cash-flow tag-sage-accounting tag-small-business tag-starting-a-business business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/accounts-payable-vs-notes-payable\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Financial-Services_0474-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Financial-Services_0474-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Financial-Services_0474-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/BrandShoot-LND_June2024_Financial-Services_0474-1214x810.jpg 1214w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-05-22T12:03:36-04:00\">May 22, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">8 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tNotes payable vs accounts payable: Differences and examples\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Looking for practical ways to manage rising healthcare costs? This guide shares proven strategies to help you control expenses while maintaining high-quality patient care.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1847,"featured_media":20146,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_sage_video":false,"post_featured_image_hide":false,"sage_hide_published_date":false,"sage_hide_read_time":false,"sage_hide_share_buttons":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[44],"tags":[399,170,299,420,138],"business_type":[40,41],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[451],"persona":[100,98,96,97],"imagine_tag":[468,603,443,444,446,434,233,472],"coauthors":[592],"class_list":["post-32346","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-strategy-legal-operations","tag-business-continuity","tag-business-strategy","tag-cash-flow","tag-cloud-financial-management","tag-leadership","business_type-small-business","business_type-growing-business","industry-healthcare"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-us","author_name":"Joe Church Woods","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1407611614.jpg","imagine_tags":{"468":"Grow your business","603":"High Performance Financials","443":"Intacct Large Business","444":"Intacct Medium Business","446":"Intacct Small Business","434":"Large Business","233":"Medium Businesses","472":"Nonprofit"}},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice US","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32346","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/1847"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=32346"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32346\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/20146"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=32346"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=32346"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=32346"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=32346"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=32346"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=32346"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=32346"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=32346"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=32346"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=32346"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}