Volunteer Role: Legislative Liaison, Illinois

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GET INVOLVED WITH MGMA? 

Given my curiosity about healthcare legislation and strong desire to impact change, it was a no-brainer. I enjoy giving back in my volunteer role as the Illinois MGMA Legislative Liaison & Committee Chair!

WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST REWARDING ABOUT VOLUNTEERING FOR MGMA? 

In addition to the opportunity to collaborate with my outstanding and accomplished fellow board members, I enjoy being an advocate and voice for healthcare professionals. I believe that every little bit – a testimonial to support legislation or summarizing legislation to membership – is priceless.

HOW DID YOU DECIDE THAT PRACTICE MANAGEMENT WAS THE CAREER FOR YOU?  

As a professionally trained, classical musician, I have been in “project management mode” since I was a child. Whether it was an audition, orchestral performance at Carnegie Hall or a solo recital, I was managing all the moving parts required to perform at my best. Naturally, this skill transfers perfectly to practice management. And, like the conductor of an orchestra or band, it is NOT our role to know how to play all the instruments. Instead, it is our duty to get the best out of each musician, by knowing how to uniquely communicate with each of them. This is no different when it comes to the people management aspect of this role – knowing each of my team members and providing them with the tools to be the best version of themselves. Truly, it warms my heart to see members on my team flourish and grow! 

WHAT IS THE BEST TIP YOU GIVE TO PEOPLE WHO ARE JUST STARTING A CAREER IN PRACTICE MANAGEMENT? 

Be authentic, lead with integrity and don’t be a robot! Those are my immediate thoughts. Also, I highly recommend diving into personal development. Gifting this to yourself unveils layers of self-awareness and strengthens your emotional intelligence, which are priceless qualities of, and essential tools for, an effective leader!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK OR WEBSITE OR RESOURCE FOR PRACTICE MANAGERS? 

My go-to resources are the Medical Practice Managers Facebook Group and the MGMA website and forums.

HOW DO YOU RELAX AFTER A BUSY WORK WEEK? 

Along the theme of personal development, I took a course in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) in early 2021. The goal was to have another tool available to me for the management of stress. MBSR is best summarized – to me – as genuine, kind, compassionate self-awareness through meditation. I practice this on a daily basis and it contributes to my overall relaxation. 

WHAT IS YOUR TOP TIP FOR MAINTAINING WORK/LIFE BALANCE?  

Set clear boundaries that protect your mental capacity and overall wellness. Understand that your output will match your input – you will only be able to give 25% to your responsibilities if you are only giving 25% to YOU. Be sure to prioritize activities that make you happy and fill your soul and do not feel guilty for it! YOLO!

About the photo

Attached is a finish line photo. I am a retired IRONMAN Triathlete (2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike & 26.2 mile run), with a personal best of 13:01.