Volunteer Roles: ACMPE Certification Commission
Why did you decide to get involved with MGMA?
My father was a physician with Carle Clinic a large multi-specialty group in Illinois. I was introduced to the administrative team as a kid and they were all active in leadership roles within MGMA. My father even attended some of the MGMA meetings. Upon completion of my graduate degree, my first job was with the Henry Ford Health System working for their medical group. MGMA was a natural fit with my career.
What do you find most rewarding about volunteering for MGMA?
No doubt, it is my friendships and relationships that evolved through time at both the state and national organizations that I have served.
How did you decide that practice management was the career for you?
My first job was as a patient transporter at my local hospital. I did this for several summers in high school and college and occasionally over the Christmas holiday. It did not fill up much space on my first resume, but I loved doing it. I met patients from all over the state and each day went to almost every clinical department across a three block area. There was something about health care for me that I really enjoyed and subsequently, I am the third generation in my family to work in the industry.
What is the best tip you give to people who are just starting a career in practice management?
Volunteer and Get involved – Get Involved – Get Involved.
What is your favorite book or website or resource for practice managers?
Given the broad responsibilities that medical group leaders have, it is really hard to pick just one resource. We have to be knowledgeable in multiple aspects of our operations and healthcare is changing so quickly. There is not one source that can meet all of the needs. For me personally it is daily news feeds, professional journals, webinars, and various associations that I have been involved in and built relationships within my various roles.
How do you relax after a busy work week?
Spending time with my family at the lake, a good concert, or occasionally a vacation that takes us to some place fun.
What is your top tip for maintaining work/life balance?
Understand your priorities and what is important to you. I don’t sit very well and always have to be doing something. Early in life, my plan centered on my family, professional life, and community. When I could combine these it was even better. When my four kids were younger they would help set up for PTA fundraisers, the MGMA Missouri state meeting, worked concession stands for service organizations, and logged hundreds of hours at the Ronald McDonald House where my wife and I also volunteer. These were family events for us. I also coached many of their sports teams. Professionally, it was organizations like MGMA that kept me energized and confirmed that I was in the right industry.
