Strategic planning and Trump's tariffs: What practices should know

In a conversation with Medical Economics assistant editor Austin Littrell, Stephen A. Dickens, JD, MAEd, FACMPE, vice president of medical practice services at SVMIC, shares expert advice on how independent practices can navigate today’s biggest challenges — from inflation and staffing shortages to long-term planning and policy uncertainty.

Throughout the discussion, Dickens explains how strategic planning has evolved into a more flexible, real-time process and offers practical guidance for keeping it actionable — even when practices feel overwhelmed by daily responsibilities. He also weighs in on the potential impact of the Trump administration’s tariffs, warning of rising supply costs and their ripple effect on patient care, operations and long-term viability.

From his experience, Dickens shares real-world stories, red flags to watch for and opportunities practice leaders shouldn’t overlook — including a surprising potential shift in the health care labor market.

For more, listen to our full conversation with Dickens on Off the Chart: A Business of Medicine Podcast.