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e-Health is here to stay and experts predict that the Internet will become the hub of health care. Rapid advancements in biotechnology and medical research, increasingly curious patients who surf the Internet for medical information, and pressures from managed care companies to contain costs and speed treatments are the central components driving e-health. Despite physician reluctance to embrace the e-revolution, many hospitals and medical groups are employing the Internet and information technology to improve their customer interface, as well as to reduce business costs. This article offers seven e-strategies for health care performance improvement: (1) Supply chain management; (2) e-transactions; (3) care management; (4) improving quality; (5) boosting revenues; (6) outsourcing; and (7) provider networks (Intranets). By helping to incorporate these key e-solutions, physician executives can position their organizations for success in the new millennium.

Today's health care market is volatile, and the job of a physician executive is becoming more risky. Recognizing signs of trouble and taking immediate action is essential. Ten early warning signs that you could be fired are: (1) Net profits dip unexpectedly; (2) investment income can't cover operating losses; (3) bond rating is downgraded; (4) revenues are not rising as fast as costs; (5) senior executives leave the team; (6) wage increases don't improve nursing vacancy rate; (7) unions begin whisper campaign; (8) medical staff elect an SOB; (9) hospital is slapped with a costly lawsuit; and (10) recruiters call to check on your status. Physician executives are quickly learning what it takes to overcome tough challenges and prevent premature job termination: Communication; no-surprise performance; continuous monitoring of key indicators; openness and plain talk; and no-more-business-as-usual attitude. What can you do to make your job loss as painless as possible? (1) Negotiate a contract upfront; (2) don't lose your temper; (3) ask for your wish list quickly; (4) be reluctant to sue your former employer; (5) tell your family as soon as possible; (6) take only a brief vacation; (7) consider a temporary assignment; (8) be prepared to be re-employed by your former employer; and (9) keep a positive attitude.