Performance Improvement Manager, HCA Physicians Services, Brentwood, Tenn.
Volunteer Roles: Professional Paper Grader and Study Group Presenter
Why did you decide to get involved with MGMA?
When I first started as a practice manager I had no experience. My mentor, Jackson Norton, recommended MGMA as the go to source for learning about how to be a successful practice manager.
What do you find most rewarding about volunteering for MGMA?
I enjoy the teaching aspect and watching members I’ve worked with meet their goals. Practice management is an extremely difficult field and helping members navigate the storm is rewarding.
How did you decide that practice management was the career for you?
Prior to starting in practice management, I was a combat engineer with the 101st Airborne Division with no idea what I wanted to do next. I participated in a seminar on the book 48 Days to the Work You Love. Part of this seminar was a personality and skills assessment to determine a career field that could be a good fit. Healthcare administration was my #1 result. Additionally, my mentor is a Practice Administrator and he allowed me to shadow him for a day.
What is the best tip you give to people who are just starting a career in practice management?
Get involved in the local MGMA chapter. There is a lot to learn and it’s a constantly changing market. Your local leaders truly want to help and the local MGMA is the best place to find those resources.
What is your favorite book or website or resource for practice managers?
MGMA is the easy answer. I have several discussion boards set up to email me daily updates so I can stay in the current conversation. I also frequently reference the website for Woodcock & Associates. Elizabeth was my FACMPE mentor and her website has many free resources that help me tackle problems.
How do you relax after a busy work week?
I like to read. I’m frequently on the move but I keep a Kindle in my bag so even if I only have a few minutes I have several books with me. I also enjoy backpacking in the Appalachian Mountains.
What is your top tip for maintaining work/life balance?
Put everything on a calendar. It’s easy to get overbooked so everything I do goes on the calendar, including when it’s time to go home. My wife works Wednesday evenings so I have my calendar reserved every Wednesday protecting that time with my daughter.