Volunteer Roles: State Liaison and ACMPE Professional Paper Grader
Why did you decide to get involved with MGMA?
I attended the Illinois MGMA Annual Conference in 2008 and when one of the hosts asked for volunteers to be on their board of directors, several audience members raised their hand and pointed at me! I am thankful that they did because my involvement with MGMA at a national, state, and local level has truly been a rewarding experience and has elevated my career beyond my expectations.
What do you find most rewarding about volunteering for MGMA?
Being able to have an impact on the experience that other members are having. As a State Liaison, I'm providing important information to the state chapter that enhances the education that they are receiving. As a previous state board member, I've helped shape the vision of the association by working closely with colleagues. Also, contributing to event planning has allowed me to see the benefits of membership firsthand.
How did you decide that practice management was the career for you?
I began my career straight out of high school back in 1987. Initially, it was a means to help pay for college and allow me to decide the appropriate path for the future. But as I became more educated about the profession I saw a need for citizens to receive their needed healthcare without having to put up with the barriers that can lead to dissatisfaction of the entire system. I'm a patient too yah know! I've always been interested in devising ways to make things simpler and easier as there are many aspects of the healthcare industry that demand efficiency expertise.
What is the best tip you give to people who are just starting a career in practice management?
Be organized! I can't stress enough the value of someone who is reliable and does what they've said they are going to do. No one is perfect, however, keeping work from getting out of control goes a long way towards having a successful practice. And let's not forget the value of MGMA membership. Don't be afraid to lean on your colleagues for recommendations and solutions. We're all in this together and supporting each other is a part of who we are as individuals and as MGMA members.
What is your favorite book or website or resource for practice managers?
I highly recommend 'The Physician Billing Process, 3rd edition' by Elizabeth Woodcock and Deborah Walker-Keegan. I was asked to review this book and my quote is on the back cover. Regardless of my connection to this publication, it is the ultimate guidebook on managing the revenue cycle process.
How do you relax after a busy work week?
More volunteering! My wife and I are involved with the Morton Grove Farmers' Market on Saturdays, and we really enjoy helping to make it a successful event. But after the market, we love to catch up on our favorite TV shows and movies while our two dogs are sleeping nearby. Oh and we're also pet foster parents for Chicago Pet Rescue. That certainly keeps us busy on the weekends.
What is your top tip for maintaining work/life balance?
Remember that you work to live and not the other way around. You become an all-star employee if you offer to take on every task at work that comes your way. However, it should never interfere with your personal life. Set boundaries and implement systems to allow everyone in your practice to not have to worry about work when their shift has completed. That goes for providers too!