“The objectives don’t change. The way to get there will.” For Mark Vorherr, CEO of Mayfield Brain and Spine, effective strategic planning starts with clear organizational objectives, measurable indicators of progress and the flexibility to replace strategies that no longer work. 

In this conversation with Daniel Williams, MGMA senior editor and host of the MGMA Insights Podcast Network, Vorherr explains how a “living plan” can create accountability without locking a medical practice into outdated tactics. He also shares the unexpected hobby that has filled his closet with roughly 400 decks of playing cards and given him an impressive repertoire of card-handling skills.

Top Three Takeaways

1. Start with the objective, not the strategy

Vorherr recommends beginning with a qualitative objective, such as expanding into a new market, and then identifying at least three quantitative measures that would demonstrate success. Only after the objective and measures are established should leaders develop the strategies intended to move those metrics. This sequence keeps the organization focused on the result rather than becoming overly attached to a particular approach.

2. Treat strategies as adaptable and replaceable

A living plan gives teams the freedom to introduce new ideas, respond to changing conditions and discontinue tactics that are not producing results. When a new opportunity emerges, Vorherr asks, “What does it tuck up into?” If the idea supports an existing measure and advances an organizational objective, it can become part of the plan. If it does not, the organization can set it aside rather than allowing it to distract from established priorities.

3. Build accountability through consistent updates

Mayfield’s teams generally report on measurable objectives monthly and more qualitative objectives quarterly, even when there is little progress to report. Vorherr encourages team members to make their updates “brief, bright and gone.” The goal is not to produce lengthy status reports but to develop a regular habit of reviewing commitments, documenting progress and maintaining shared accountability.

MGMA members with a useful story, challenge, solution, experience or perspective to share are invited to contact Daniel Williams at dwilliams@mgma.com about appearing on the MGMA Insights Podcast Network.

Resources

• Mayfield Brain & Spine
• Connect with Mark Vorherr on LinkedIn
• MGMA Business Strategy Resources
• Register for Spring conferences: MGMA Financial Conference | MGMA Private Practice Conference | MGMA Operations Conference
• MGMA Podcast Network

MGMA Members: Would like to appear on an episode? Email us at dwilliams@mgma.com. If you have a question about your practice that you would like us to answer, send an email to advisor@mgma.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our network wherever you get your podcasts!