Associate Dean & CFAO, President, California MGMA
Volunteer Roles: Student Ambassador Program Developer
Why did you decide to get involved with MGMA?
I had used MGMA benchmarks to benchmark my physicians at the various practices where I worked, but had never been a member of MGMA. I heard about the Mass/Rhode Island chapter’s popular “Payer Day” in the late 1990s and early 2000s and attended several times but still never joined. Subsequently while working at the Massachusetts General, I met Kevin Mulcahy and Jane Parrish, both long-time MGMA members who were very active both locally and nationally. I attended a few local chapter meetings, but didn’t really get involved until I moved to California in 2012. Both Kevin and Jane encouraged me to seek out the local MGMA chapter and volunteer for committees as a way to network in a new city. I got involved in the Orange County (California) MGMA chapter, was on the regional board from 2013 to 2015 and then served on the state executive board from 2015 until the present. Being part of MGMA helped me meet people throughout my new home state, while staying connected and expanding my network on the national level.
In what ways have you supported volunteerism at MGMA?
I supported the idea of the Student Ambassador program as a way for National MGMA to attract students to MGMA while at the same time getting a group of dynamic young people to assist with our annual conference. Seeing these up-and-coming administrators networking and assisting in the national meeting gave me hope for our future.
How did you decide that practice management was the career for you?
Practice management actually found me rather the other way around. In the 1980s I was working as a claims examiner in the medical division of a large insurance company. I realized very quickly that I was on the wrong side of healthcare. Many insurance companies have changed since I was claims examiner, but in those days, we were incented to deny and delay claims. I left the insurance business after three years and went to work for a small two-physician private practice. Within months I realized that I had found my calling. That was nearly 30 years ago, and I have never once regretted getting involved in practice management.
What is the best tip you give to people who are just starting a career in practice management?
Make sure to network! Professional associations like MGMA give you the opportunity to meet people in the field who can help you find your next great job.
What is your favorite book or website or resource for practice managers?
As part of my MGMA membership I receive a daily “Financial Management Network” email. It is packed with discussions about topics that affect us all in practice management that is up to date and dynamic.
How do you relax after a busy work week?
My husband and I own a little cabin in Joshua Tree just outside the park. We retreat there whenever we can to hike, trail run and rock climb.
What is your top tip for maintaining work/life balance?
I get up very early in the morning so that I can have time to meditate, work out with my husband and eat a good breakfast before heading in to work. I have found that setting the foundation of my day with activities I enjoy keeps me grounded.