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    Home > Christine Roberts, MBA, CIA, CSBI

    Volunteer Role: MGMA Stat Data Story Author

    Why did you decide to get involved with MGMA?

    I was introduced to MGMA by a mentor when I was doing bookkeeping for a medical practice. She knew I wanted to progress into administration, and she would give me articles to read.  It gave me a chance to learn about what would be expected in the position and to speak confidently on subjects in the field.  

    What do you find most rewarding about volunteering for MGMA?

    In general, I feel volunteering is a chance to give back.  I encourage it from my staff within our own community. Volunteer work enables me to connect with people in my peer group. One of the most rewarding aspects about volunteering for the MGMA is the feedback it allows me to receive. Through the volunteer process I get to fill in my own knowledge gaps; it encourages me to research a subject beyond what “I already know “.

    How did you decide that practice management was the career for you?

    My career path has been a winding road. I started my journey in health care on the clinical side, which turned out not to suite me. I moved into the clerical end developing my knowledge and skills as a Medical biller, a Medical coder, and then into Medical collections. With my BA in Business finance I progressed into the financial end of health care as a Bookkeeper and then a controller. Having worked from the ground up in the health care arena; I really felt I could offer a unique vision and direction in an Administrative position. There is something to be said about bringing practical experience along with education that allows you to see the running of a practice from a different vantage point. Over 20 years in this field and I’m here to push patient care, employee satisfaction and grow bottom lines.   

    What is the best tip you give to people who are just starting a career in practice management?

     My son Michaël just received his degree in Health Care Administration – and I offered to him this piece of advice. In many cases having the degree is necessary; BUT having the working skills (Billing, coding, compliance, etc.)  to run the practice will make you valuable

    What is your favorite book or website or resource for practice managers?

    I use MGMA a lot for benchmarking data and for staying up to date in the practice management area.  I source HFMA for finance questions and I use a consultant; Karen Zupko for the BIG questions.  As a rule, I feed my mind with anything that interest me; because you never know where that information gem will present itself.

    How do you relax after a busy work week?

     After a busy week I enjoy spending time going to concerts, traveling and being with my family.

    What is your top tip for maintaining work/life balance?

    No such thing as balance ... And I say that because there will be times that works requires more attention and that is part of the job. That being said, my top tip for maintaining work / life balance is to create a company culture that lends itself to seeing the importance of that balance. Then, know and communicate your priorities to those who need to know them.


     


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