MGMA Podcasts

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams talks with Carol Ittig, MBA, FACMPE, Practice Administrator at Children’s Orthopedics and Scoliosis Surgery Associates in St. Petersburg, Florida. Carol shares her journey from healthcare administration student to influential leader, and how adopting a go-giver philosophy has shaped her approach to leadership, mentorship, and innovation.Key Takeaways [03:35] Carol’s Path to Healthcare Leadership Carol’s career pivot and how early experiences in patient care sparked her passion for health care leadership. [07:35] Why Networking is Non-Negotiable How leveraging MGMA and other professional networks enabled Carol to launch new initiatives like research programs and a foundation. [07:49] The Power of Mentorship Lessons from her mentor Debbie Mitchell — setting boundaries, embracing authenticity, and saying yes to growth opportunities.[10:49] The Go-Giver Philosophy in Action Carol explains the five laws from The Go-Giver and how they translate into leadership in medical practices. [18:12] Solving Payer Challenges Through Collaboration How Carol’s orthopedic billing listserv uncovered a nationwide claims denial issue — and the steps taken to resolve $50,000 in denied claims.[21:07] AI and Prior Authorization: What Leaders Need to Know Insights into emerging AI-driven payer edits and practical tips for navigating prior authorization hurdles.[27:49] Navigating MGMA Resources Efficiently Carol’s “secret sauce” for staying informed about MGMA programs without getting lost in the website. Resources & Links MentionedCarol Ittig on LinkedInOrthopedic Executives Association (AOE)CHORTHO Cares FoundationThe Go-Giver by Bob Burg and John David MannMGMA Membership MGMA Mentor ProgramIf you're interested in joining the MGMA Book Club, reach out to Daniel at dwilliams@mgma.org.

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams reconnects with Tony (Anthony) Schirer, executive director of Cheyenne OBGYN and long-time MGMA member. Tony shares his journey into healthcare, the evolving role of technology in medical practices, and practical strategies for tackling staffing challenges in rural settings. The conversation also explores MGMA membership benefits, mentorship programs, and the value of professional networking.Key Takeaways03:55 From Finance to Healthcare Leadership Tony explains how his career began in hospital finance and evolved into practice administration, driven by regulatory changes like the Stark Act.07:39 Technology’s Impact on Healthcare From early spreadsheets to EHRs and now AI, Tony reflects on the tools that have transformed operations and patient care.11:00 Recruiting in Rural Communities Why hiring clinicians for Cheyenne takes patience, creativity, and understanding family needs — and why it took 18 months to fill key roles. 12:45 Building Team CultureHoliday bonuses, potlucks, and post-holiday gatherings as strategies to show staff they’re valued. 15:17 Staffing Pain Points Challenges in finding qualified front-desk staff and medical assistants, and why local training programs matter. 17:27 Remote Work in Healthcare Tony shares real-world examples of hybrid and remote roles, including triage nurses and billing staff, and the compliance considerations involved.23:55 The Power of MGMA Membership Networking, advisory boards, and the MGMA Book Club as tools for professional growth and mentorship. 26:24 Why Mentorship Matters Tony’s call for more proactive outreach to new members and ideas for strengthening MGMA’s mentoring program. Resources Contact Tony on LinkedIn. MGMA Membership BenefitsJackson Physician SearchEmail Daniel Williams at dwilliams@mgma.org if you'd like to join the MGMA Book club. 

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams sits down with Paola Ballester, MD, pediatric hospitalist, medical director for utilization management, and senior physician advisor at a large, freestanding academic children’s hospital and regional pediatric referral center. Dr. Ballester is also the co-founder of EasyPA, an AI-driven platform designed to streamline prior authorization processes. Together, they explore how medical practices can tackle administrative burdens, leverage technology, and prepare for upcoming regulatory changes — all while improving patient access to care.Key Takeaways02:45 Dr. Ballester’s Unique Journey From insurance claims adjuster to pediatric hospitalist — how her background shaped her expertise in utilization management and revenue cycle.06:27 The Pain Points of Prior Authorization Why delays in prior auth lead to patient suffering and staff frustration, and why the current system is broken. 08:01 Introducing EasyPA How an AI-powered platform can detect prior auth requirements, reduce denials, and generate appeal letters and peer-to-peer talking points. 11:37 The “220-Minute Case” A real-world example of administrative burden: 19 email threads, 14 team members, and multiple failed appeals for one procedure.22:19 Preparing for Regulatory Changes CMS’s new rules (57F) will require electronic prior auth by Jan 1, 2027 — what practices need to know now. 17:22 Choosing the Right Tech Tools Practical advice for administrators and clinicians on evaluating AI solutions and understanding your own data before investing.24:22 Leadership and Representation Dr. Ballester’s advice for women in healthcare leadership: owning confidence, overcoming imposter syndrome, and defining success. 26:35 Life Beyond Medicine How being a basketball mom keeps Dr. Ballester grounded and why setting boundaries matters for work-life balance. Resources & LinksEasyPA Reach out to Paola Ballester, MD, on LinkedInCMS Rule 57F - Details on upcoming electronic prior authorization requirements.MGMA prior authorization resources

On this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams, Senior Editor at MGMA, sits down with Jimmie Richmond, MPH, CHFP, CMPE, CPC, Financial Analysis Consultant at Banner University Medical Center. Jimmie is both a longtime MGMA member and a volunteer on MGMA’s new Human Resources & Compliance Advisory Board.Daniel and Jimmie explore the modern challenges facing medical practices — from unbilled revenue recovery to workforce shortages, patient access, remote work, and how leaders can weave compassion, communication, and connection into their operations. They also discuss the power of professional community through MGMA’s Book Club and advisory boards, offering listeners actionable insights to strengthen both their teams and their financial performance.Key Takeaways:• 1:53 — The “Unbilled Revenue” Problem: Why It Happens & How to Fix It Jimmie explains how his team identifies root causes of unbilled revenue in the EMR—an issue that directly impacts margins. He highlights the need for cross-functional collaboration between finance, revenue cycle, and providers.• 5:27 — A Career Built on Connection, Persistence, and Service From call centers to surgery centers to financial analysis, Jimmie shares how listening skills and empathy became core leadership tools.• 9:01 — Book Club as Leadership Training: Why MGMA Members Should Join Daniel and Jimmie discuss how MGMA’s Book Club builds leadership skills, encourages vulnerability, and helps members solve real-time workplace problems.• 12:55 — Finding Your Place in MGMA: Scholarships, Certification, and Fellowship Jimmie recounts how MGMA’s education, grants, and benchmarking tools helped advance his career—and how the fellowship journey validated his expertise.• 18:05 — Why a Finance Professional Joined the HR & Compliance Advisory Board Jimmie explains how financial analytics intersects with HR and compliance, and why multidisciplinary perspectives matter for better decision-making.• 20:20 — The Pressures Facing Practices Today: Patient Access, Staff Retention, & Provider Burnout Jimmie outlines the post-COVID challenges he sees across the system and why compassion must be a core leadership competency.• 22:13 — Making Remote Work… Actually Work: Tools, Touchpoints, and Trust As a fully remote financial consultant for a Phoenix-based practice, Jimmie offers tactical advice for communication rhythms, collaboration tools, and building team cohesion from afar.• 22:54 — How Leaders Can Recruit Talent in a Competitive Landscape Remote work can widen talent pools—if leaders invest in connection, scheduling discipline, and inclusive communication practices.Resources Mentioned: Jimmie on LinkedInMGMA Book Club (Align the Mind – December Selection)Send an email of interest to Daniel Williams - dwilliams@mgma.comMGMA Volunteer Opportunities MGMA DataDive (Benchmarking Tool) MGMA Education & Certification (CMPE & Fellowship)MGMA Conferences 

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams speaks with Allen Alongi, MBA, PMP, SSGB, Physician Practice Manager at Northside Hospital in Marietta, Georgia, and one of the newly appointed members of MGMA’s Human Resources and Compliance Advisory Board. Allen shares his journey from patient to healthcare leader; his passion for writing, reading, and mentorship; and strategies for building resilient teams in a challenging healthcare environment. This conversation offers practical solutions for medical practice leaders and MGMA members looking to strengthen their teams, improve operations, and foster professional growth.Key Takeaways:01:21 Allen’s Role at Northside Hospital Learn how Allen oversees multiple clinics, manages P&L, and drives strategic initiatives focused on retention and patient experience. 04:42 A Personal Healthcare Journey Allen’s diagnosis with Type 1 diabetes at age 14 and how it inspired his career in healthcare leadership.06:08 Career Path & Lessons Learned From academic medicine to physician practice management, Allen shares insights on staffing challenges and operational excellence. 09:05 Connecting with MGMA How MGMA resources and certification programs became a cornerstone for Allen’s professional development and decision-making. 11:05 Writing for MGMA Allen discusses his published articles on mentorship, feedback loops, and practical clinic solutions—and why writing matters for leadership. 12:36 Allen's Passion for Writing Stemmed from his Love of ReadingAllen talks classic literature and various writing roles throughout his career. 19:28 Book Recommendations & Lifelong Learning Allen and Daniel talk about some leadership reads, plus details on MGMA’s book club for members.25:07 Maximizing Mentor-Mentee ProgramsActionable advice for getting the most out of mentorship programs, including preparation, engagement, and growth strategies.Resources Mentioned:Allen’s MGMA Articles"Mentor up: How to be a great mentee and drive your own growth""Feedback for impact: Using employee and patient insights to drive operational improvements""Practical solutions to combat burnout in ambulatory clinics"Other MGMA ResourcesMGMA Certification - Demonstrate your skills and earn a recognized certificate of mastery.MGMA Mentor Program - New and improved!Books DiscussedThe Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre DumasEast of Eden by John SteinbeckLook Homeward, Angel by Thomas WolfeAlign the Mind by Britt FrankShatterproof by Tasha EurichThe Moviegoer by Walker PercyLemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams speaks with Justin McMartin, Director of Product Innovation at Surescripts, about one of the most important developments in U.S. healthcare interoperability: TEFCA and Qualified Health Information Networks (QHINs). They dig into what TEFCA is (and isn’t), how QHINs operate, what Surescripts is doing as a newly approved QHIN, and — most importantly — how practice leaders can use these tools to improve clinical decision-making, streamline workflows, reduce prior authorization pain, and support value-based care.Justin’s insights translate a deeply technical topic into clear, practice-oriented guidance that helps healthcare administrators understand what’s changing, how it impacts their clinicians, and what steps they should take now.Key Takeaways Justin’s background & the evolution of Surescripts beyond e-prescribing 00:58 — From EHR implementation during Meaningful Use to building national data exchange networks.What Surescripts offers medical practices today 02:45 — Eligibility, medication history, real-time benefit tools, clinical messaging, record locator/exchange.TEFCA explained: Why it exists and what it solves 04:59 — Preventing fragmented, state-by-state frameworks by establishing a single national standard.QHINs & the Sequoia Project’s role as RCE 06:08 — How QHINs govern secure, standardized data exchange nationwide.How Surescripts participates: InterConnect & QHIN approval 07:33 — Surescripts’ new QHIN subsidiary and what it means for practice connectivity.Scope of data available: Billions of clinical documents exchanged 08:39 — How Carequality volume and TEFCA adoption are converging.What TEFCA adds to existing practice workflows 10:33 — Access to CCDAs across care settings, improving completeness at the point of care.Practical use cases for clinicians and practice managers 12:33 — ED episodes, chronic disease management, and value-based care coordination.Why practices hesitate: Awareness, education, and workflow clarity 14:54 — Adoption barriers and how vendors can support practices.Action steps for practice leaders 17:44 — Review InterConnect resources, understand state exchanges, and incorporate patient feedback on data access.Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeSurescriptsThe Sequoia Project (TEFCA RCE)

In this inspiring bonus episode of the MGMA Podcast, recorded live at the 2025 MGMA Leaders Conference in Orlando, Senior Editor Daniel Williams sits down with Delores McNair—speaker, mentor, and longtime MGMA leader—who brings her trademark energy and authenticity to a conversation about leadership, mentorship, and human connection in healthcare.Delores McNair shares what fuels her continued engagement with MGMA, from mentoring and speaking to leading the MGMA Book Club community. She reflects on the power of authentic leadership, the importance of diversity and inclusion, and why MGMA conferences offer more than education—they build connection.Highlights from this episode:How mentorship through MGMA helps leaders grow and give backThe value of authentic leadership and building a personal brandLessons from the MGMA Book Club and continuous learningNetworking vs. connecting: why real relationships matterReflections on MGMA’s 1920s-themed gala and the joy of communityIf you’re passionate about healthcare leadership, professional development, and authentic connection, this conversation will leave you inspired.Subscribe to the MGMA Podcast for more interviews with healthcare innovators and leaders shaping the future of medical practice management.#MGMA #HealthcareLeadership #LeadersConference #Mentorship #AuthenticLeadership #MedicalPracticeManagement

In this episode, Sr. Editor and host of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Daniel Williams, MBA, MSEM, sits down with Macy Dotty, Clinic Director of Interventional Pain, Neurology, Urology, and Visiting Specialists at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center in Crosby, Minnesota — and one of MGMA’s 2025 Future Five Award winners.Macy shares her unconventional entry into healthcare during the early days of COVID, how growing up in rural Minnesota shaped her leadership approach, and how her team cut wait times from 54 days to just over 10 without adding staff. She also reflects on what it means to be honored as a Future Five leader and what excites her most about the future of healthcare.This episode is full of actionable insights for medical practice leaders, especially those working in rural and resource-constrained environments.Key TakeawaysStarting a Healthcare Career During the Pandemic Built Adaptability and Resourcefulness (05:43) Macy entered healthcare in the spring of 2020 with no traditional onboarding, learning instead through immersion, curiosity, and creative problem-solving — skills that continue to shape her leadership.How a “Small but Mighty” Critical Access Hospital Serves a Large Rural Region (15:18) CRMC sits in a town of 2,300 but serves 50,000–60,000 patients across rural Minnesota, performing more than 10,000 surgeries a year. Macy explains why patients drive past larger systems to receive care there.Managing Seasonal Patient Shifts: Coordinating Care for Snowbirds (17:23) Macy outlines how her team tracks which patients winter in other states, ensures continuity of care, prevents unnecessary follow-up outreach, and keeps partner providers informed.Cutting Wait Times from 54 Days to 10 with Data, Templates & Team Alignment (21:05) Rather than adding staff, Macy’s team redesigned provider schedules, room utilization, and workflows — dramatically expanding access and improving patient outcomes.Leadership That Drives >99th Percentile Engagement Scores (24:56) Macy prioritizes visibility, staff autonomy, psychological safety, and genuine personal connection. Her approach empowers teams to solve problems and care for patients more effectively.Innovation + Policy Awareness Will Shape the Next Generation of Healthcare Leaders (26:54) Future leaders must embrace creative problem-solving, partnership-building, technology, and an active understanding of state/local legislation impacting care delivery.Bonus: A Disney First-Timer? Planning Orlando Travel as a Minnesotan (28:09) Macy hopes to turn her upcoming Orlando trip into her fiancé’s first-ever Disney experience — if she can persuade him.Resources MentionedCuyuna Regional Medical CenterMGMA DataDiveMGMA Stat

In this bonus episode of the MGMA Podcast, recorded live at the 2025 MGMA Leaders Conference in Orlando, Senior Editor Daniel Williams speaks with Maryann Kawaksheh, who traveled all the way from Qatar to attend.Maryann shares her remarkable journey from Alabama to Qatar, where she helped build a greenfield hospital from the ground up. She discusses the similarities and differences between U.S. and international healthcare systems, how benchmarking and MGMA membership have been vital to her work abroad, and why networking is her biggest takeaway from the Leaders Conference.Key themes from this episode:Building a women’s and children’s hospital in QatarThe role of benchmarking and MGMA resources in global healthcare leadershipSimilarities in ambulatory care challenges across countriesHow AI is shaping healthcare leadership while emphasizing the human connectionWhy ongoing leadership training and networking are essential for growthIf you enjoy this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe to the MGMA Podcast for more insights from healthcare leaders across the globe.#MGMA #HealthcareLeadership #LeadersConference #AIinHealthcare #GlobalHealthcare

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams sits down with Mitchell Ramsey, CHFP, CRCR, TMS Clinical Coordinator at Psychiatry Associates of Tallahassee and one of MGMA’s 2025 Future Five Award honorees. Mitchell shares how his journey from lacrosse coach to mental health professional shaped his empathetic, patient-first approach to care. He discusses innovations in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) treatment, improving patient intake systems, navigating payer relationships, and the broader movement to destigmatize mental health care. This episode offers actionable insights for practice leaders looking to improve coordination of care, streamline administrative processes, and strengthen patient engagement.Episode Takeaways(02:58) From Coaching to Caregiving: A Path to Mental Health Mitchell describes his unique journey from coaching lacrosse to pursuing mental health care after realizing the power of psychological support in athletic performance.(04:56) Inside the TMS Clinic He breaks down what transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is — an FDA-approved neuromodulation therapy for depression, OCD, and other conditions — and shares how his small but dedicated team operates within a larger psychiatric practice.(07:43) Transforming the Patient Intake & Onboarding Experience Mitchell details how he redesigned his clinic’s intake process — shifting from a standardized script to a storytelling-based, empathy-driven approach that helps patients feel understood and supported from the start.(09:56) Building Better Payer Relationships He explains how open communication and proactive collaboration with insurers reduced prior authorization delays from two to three weeks down to a few days, demonstrating how strong provider–payer relationships improve access to care.(11:07) Data-Driven Advocacy for Mental Health Mitchell shares how his team’s partnership with BrainsWay, a TMS device manufacturer, has contributed to expanding FDA approval for broader age ranges — underscoring how community practices can influence national treatment accessibility.(12:58) Community Partnerships Through NAMI Mitchell’s collaboration with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) ensures that patients who can’t afford care still receive peer-to-peer mental health support, embodying a comprehensive approach to community wellness.(15:33) The Future of Mental Health Care He envisions a continued reduction in stigma, deeper integration of mental health across all specialties, and more open acknowledgment of emotional well-being in patient conversations.(20:42) Advice for Small Practice Leaders Mitchell encourages administrators to remember that “every contribution matters” — reminding listeners that small practices can have large, lasting impacts on the future of healthcare. Resources MentionedMGMA Future Five Awards - Learn more about MGMA’s program honoring early-career healthcare leaders.National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Explore peer-to-peer programs and mental health advocacy resources.BrainsWay TMS Therapy – Learn about transcranial magnetic stimulation and its FDA-approved uses for depression and OCD.

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams, Senior Editor at MGMA, sits down with Tony Stajduhar, President, and Neal Waters, Regional Vice President of Recruiting, Jackson Physician Search, to discuss insights from the new research report From Contract to Connection: How Authentic Relationships Foster Early Career Physician Loyalty and Retention.The conversation explores how healthcare leaders can strengthen physician relationships beyond the recruitment phase — from pre-boarding and onboarding to long-term engagement. Tony and Neal share actionable strategies to close the gap between administrative expectations and physician realities, emphasizing culture, communication, and connection as key drivers of retention and satisfaction.Key TakeawaysBridging the Expectation Gap (1:39) Nearly 60% of physicians leave their first job within three years, yet administrators expect six-year tenures. This misalignment reveals a critical need for better communication and expectation-setting during recruitment and onboarding.Spotting Red Flags Early (3:57) Engagement is a strong indicator of longevity. Lack of participation in staff events, community involvement, or peer engagement can signal an at-risk physician.Generational Shifts in Retention (09:44)Newer physicians approach employment differently than past generations. They expect employers to prove that a practice is worth their long-term commitment, rather than assuming loyalty from the start.The Power of Pre-boarding (11:09) Relationship-building begins before day one. Consistent communication — such as assigning mentors, sending local updates, or small welcome gestures — keeps new hires connected and prevents cold feet during long start-date gaps.Compensation Gets Them In, Culture Keeps Them There (18:10) Financial packages may attract candidates, but organizational culture — where physicians feel heard, valued, and connected — is what sustains engagement.Establishing Feedback Loops That Work (22:25) Effective feedback systems pair structured mentorship (monthly check-ins) with informal peer relationships, ensuring physicians have safe spaces to share concerns before they escalate.Culture as a Retention Engine (25:34) A thriving culture is personal, not transactional. When physicians feel known as individuals — not employee numbers — they’re more likely to stay and invest in the organization’s success.Action Step for Leaders (29:19) Administrators should “put themselves in physicians’ shoes,” understanding their personal and professional motivations to create environments where physicians feel supported and seen.Resources mentioned:Full Report: From Contract to Connection: How Authentic Relationships Foster Early Career Physician Loyalty and RetentionJackson Physician Search resourcesMore MGMA Insights podcast episodes

On this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams, senior editor at MGMA, welcomes Idalis McPhail, practice administrator at Fairfax Pediatric Associates and one of MGMA’s 2025 Future Five Award winners. With a background that spans from bedside nursing to executive administration, McPhail shares her journey of bridging clinical and administrative leadership, fostering unity across departments, and implementing evidence-based safety and workflow improvements. Listeners will gain practical insights into building communication, strengthening patient experience, and leading change in long-standing healthcare organizations. Key Takeaways[02:34] – Recognition and Mentorship Idalis describes the surprise and excitement of receiving her MGMA Future Five Award and how MGMA resources and mentorship accelerated her professional growth as a new practice administrator.[05:11] – Career Evolution: CNA to Administrator Her transition from clinical roles to leadership positions taught her the importance of empathy, teamwork, and leadership’s impact on both patient outcomes and staff morale.[06:09] – Inside Fairfax Pediatric Associates Fairfax Pediatric Associates—serving Northern Virginia for nearly 60 years—includes three locations, 80 staff, and offers care ranging from pediatrics to ADHD and mental health services as part of the Trusted Doctors network.[09:30] – Speaking a Common Language: Clinical Meets Administrative McPhail explains how she united departments by defining the patient experience as a shared goal—covering every touchpoint from insurance verification through follow-up care.[11:23] – Leading a Culture of Safety Her infection-control initiative began with observation and staff education. By focusing on the “why” behind safety standards, McPhail built buy-in and accountability, reducing employee sick days and patient cross-contamination.[13:50] – Sustaining Quality through Engagement Monthly “secret shopper” audits keep infection-control practices consistent, reinforcing awareness without creating a punitive culture.[17:14] – Mentorship and Collaboration Across Roles Transitioning from nurse manager to administrator required humility, curiosity, and asking direct reports for insight. McPhail emphasizes showing how operational decisions affect patient outcomes to motivate staff from all backgrounds.[19:33] – Redefining Impact: Taking Care of the Caregivers Moving into administration expanded McPhail’s impact—now supporting both patients and the 80 employees who care for them through operational efficiency, fiscal stability, and workplace culture.[21:55] – Thriving Amid Change McPhail views healthcare’s constant evolution as a learning opportunity, encouraging leaders to collaborate, stay adaptable, and embrace innovation with confidence and curiosity. Resources: Idalis McPhair on LinkedInFairfax Pediatric AssociatesMGMA Awards Trusted Doctors Network

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams, Senior Editor at MGMA, interviews Sean Nguyen, MHA, the 2025 Harwick Innovation Award winner and System Director of the Interventional Pain Service Line at Ochsner Health. Nguyen shares how his “One Reason for Visit” model revolutionized multidisciplinary care for patients with back pain by breaking down silos, improving patient access, and creating a coordinated, scalable system across a 45-hospital network. He also reflects on his Louisiana roots, how his experience with FEMA during Hurricane Katrina shaped his healthcare leadership, and how collaboration drives sustainable innovation.Tune in to learn how Nguyen’s approach can help your practice enhance care coordination, streamline scheduling, and improve patient satisfaction — no matter your size or specialty.Key Takeaways[01:36] – Winning the Harwick Innovation Award Sean shares the story behind receiving the Harwick Innovation Award and credits his Ochsner team’s collective effort in transforming care delivery.[03:11] – About Ochsner Health’s System-Wide Reach Sean provides an overview of Ochsner Health’s 45-hospital system, spanning Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, emphasizing the organization’s focus on innovation, collaboration, and excellence in care.[05:40] – Roots in Louisiana and a Passion for Community Growing up “down the bayou” in Houma, Louisiana, as the son of Vietnamese immigrants, Sean learned the value of family and community. After Hurricane Katrina, his work with FEMA in recovery and behavioral health inspired his career in healthcare leadership. [11:22] – Breaking Down Silos in Patient Care Nguyen explains how fragmented care for patients with back pain led to the development of the “One Reason for Visit” model — streamlining access and ensuring consistent triage regardless of specialty or location. [15:46] – Implementation: Building Collaboration Across Systems Sean details how his team partnered with Epic and clinical leaders to connect decision trees across specialties, standardize initial visits, and gain clinician buy-in through transparent communication and trust-building.[20:45] – Buy-in, Measurable Results, and Patient Impact The initiative reduced wait times, expanded same-day availability, and boosted patient satisfaction. Nguyen also notes culture change as one of the most meaningful outcomes, as teams embraced shared goals over silos.[29:35] – Scaling the Model to Chronic Disease Management Sean outlines opportunities to apply the “One Reason for Visit” framework to chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, cancer, joint pain, and women’s health — emphasizing the need for both top-down and grassroots collaboration.[34:13] – Innovation Through Teamwork Drawing inspiration from his Avengers pin, Sean compares his multidisciplinary team to superheroes — each with unique strengths working together for patients’ benefit.Resources from this episode:Sean Nguyen on LinkedInOchsner Health2025 MGMA Award Winners MGMA Insights Podcast Network

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams, Senior Editor at MGMA, sits down with Michelle Mainord, Practice Administrator at Cookeville Gynecology in Tennessee and winner of the 2025 ACMPE Forum Representative of the Year Award. Michelle shares her remarkable journey from nurse to administrator, the lessons learned in leadership, and how mentorship and certification programs like ACMPE strengthen the future of healthcare management.Listeners will gain insights into how medical practice leaders can balance professional development, mentorship, and the day-to-day demands of running a practice — all while building community and advancing excellence in healthcare management.Episode Takeaways[02:09] — Connecting in Person: Why MGMA Conferences Matter Daniel and Michelle chat about the excitement of attending the MGMA Leaders Conference in Orlando (held Sept. 28-Oct. 1), the energy of being surrounded by peers, and the difference between virtual connections and face-to-face learning. Michelle reflects on attending the MGMA Private Practice Conference in Minnesota earlier this year. [05:14] — Cookeville, Tennessee: A Regional Hub for Women’s Health Michelle introduces listeners to Cookeville. At Cookeville Gynecology, her team provides specialized care for patients who often travel an hour or more for services. She describes the pride of working in a regional practice that blends small-town connection with big-city standards of care. [6:19] — From Nurse to Administrator: Bridging the Clinical and Business Sides of Healthcare Michelle shares her transition story from clinical nurse to administrator, explaining how cross-training and empathy between front- and back-office teams foster stronger, more efficient practices.[7:34] — Launching and Growing a Physician-Owned Practice Hear how Michelle helped build Cookeville Gynecology from a single-physician practice to a thriving six-provider clinic serving more than 20,000 patients across a 14-county region.[8:08] — Bridging the Front and Back Office Divide  Michelle reflects on the transition from nurse to administrator, noting that tension often exists between clinical and front-office teams. She explains how her clinical background helped her bridge that gap, foster collaboration through cross-training, and guide change with empathy and understanding. [09:48] — Seeing Both Sides of the Practice Michelle explains how working on both the clinical and administrative sides has strengthened her communication and leadership. She shares how understanding each team’s perspective helps staff connect their daily work to the practice’s financial health and overall success.[11:15] — The Power of ACMPE: What Certification and Fellowship Really Mean Michelle breaks down the ACMPE process — from certification to fellowship — and how it builds confidence, financial literacy, and leadership among practice managers.[14:30] — Paying It Forward Through Mentorship Michelle shares how earning her ACMPE certification inspired her to mentor others. Now leading study groups and boot camps, she helps peers navigate the process, celebrating their successes and emphasizing how mentorship keeps the spirit of professional growth alive in healthcare leadership. [18:56] — Overcoming Barriers and Building Confidence Michelle notes that time is the biggest challenge for most practice leaders pursuing ACMPE certification. She emphasizes how study groups and the (MGMA) Principles of Practice Management Certificate help build confidence and community, offering encouragement, shared learning, and a sense of camaraderie among peers on the same journey. [20:50] — Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders Michelle shares what drives her passion for ACMPE: helping practice leaders grow and adapt in a fast-changing healthcare landscape. She finds the greatest reward in mentoring others—supporting them as they build confidence, pursue certification or fellowship, and connect the dots between where they are and where they want to be. About the Guest: Michelle Mainord is Practice Administrator at Cookeville Gynecology in Tennessee and the 2025 ACMPE Forum Representative of the Year. She has been instrumental in guiding members through certification and fellowship, fostering mentorship networks, and advancing the professional development of healthcare leaders. Resources Michelle Mainord on LinkedInACMPE Certification and Fellowship InformationPrinciples of Medical Practice Management Certificate ProgramMGMA Private Practice Conference

Welcome to MGMA Insights, the podcast for medical practice leaders. In this episode, host Daniel Williams speaks with Jonathan Leer, Senior Director of Clinical Business Operations at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.Recorded ahead of the MGMA Leaders Conference, their conversation highlights the evolving role of academic medicine, including leadership development, physician recruitment and retention, research and clinical trials, grant management, and resource management amid shrinking reimbursements.Key Moments:00:00 – Introduction and Jonathan Leer's background01:07 – Defining academic medicine and the tripartite mission04:14 – Research and clinical trial highlights06:32 – Public health focus on carbon monoxide safety07:39 – Expanding academic practices into communities12:18 – Leadership, recruitment, and resource management in academic medicine28:00 – How to connect with Jonathan LeerResources:Email: j.leer@som.umaryland.eduJonathan Leer on LinkedInMGMA Leaders Conference InfoUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine WebsiteCDC Carbon Monoxide Safety

In this episode of the MGMA Business Solutions Podcast, Daniel Williams sits down with Dr. Rihan Javid to explore how medical practices can balance artificial intelligence with human expertise. Dr. Javid shares insights from his work with EDGE and Rinova AI, where he helps practices leverage remote talent and AI-powered agents to reduce costs, improve billing accuracy, and enhance patient care.The conversation covers how AI can automate repetitive administrative tasks, the limits of technology in patient interactions, and the importance of maintaining empathy and trust in healthcare. Listeners will also hear real-world examples of AI’s role in revenue cycle management and the long-term potential of AI agents.Key Takeaways:(03:27) - Introduction to Dr. Javid’s background: From law to psychiatry to healthcare operations, and how this experience informs his approach to AI in medical practices(06:38) - The billing challenge: Why healthcare billing is so complex and costly, and how practices struggle to retain top coding and billing staff(08:21) - Where AI excels vs. where humans are essential: Repetitive coding and data tasks are ideal for AI, while human interaction remains irreplaceable for patient-facing roles(09:35) - Defining AI agents: How AI agents simulate human workflows, log into EHRs, code notes, and reconcile payments—dramatically cutting processing times(13:15) - Cost savings potential: How practices can reduce billing expenses from 5% of revenue to less than 1%, saving tens of thousands of dollars per physician each year(15:42) - Preserving empathy and trust: Why AI cannot replace the doctor-patient relationship and the importance of human connection in healthcare(17:08) - Final advice for practice leaders: Adopt AI thoughtfully—integrating tools like billing agents without losing the essence of patient-centered careResourcesVisit the EDGE websiteVisit the Rinova AI website to learn moreWatch a Rinova Agentic AI Insurance Verification DemoConnect with Dr. Rihan Javid on LinkedIn

In this episode of the MGMA Podcast, Senior Editor Daniel Williams sits down with Linda Carroll of Aurora Maternal Fetal Medicine in Alaska, recorded live at the 2025 MGMA Leaders Conference in Orlando. Linda shares her unique perspective on traveling from Alaska to connect with peers, the importance of cultural sensitivity in healthcare leadership, and how resource groups like the AAPI Leaders Group provide space for meaningful conversations. She also discusses the realities of delivering care across rural Alaska, balancing Telehealth with in-person visits, and why networking is the most valuable takeaway from MGMA conferences.What you’ll hear in this episode:Challenges and rewards of delivering maternal-fetal care across AlaskaWhy cultural awareness is vital for healthcare leadersHow peer networks provide support in leadership rolesInsights from MGMA’s resource groups and breakout sessionsThe role of conferences in building community and balance for leadersResources:MGMA Leaders Conference: https://mgma.com/leadersMGMA Podcast: https://www.mgma.com/podcastsEmail us at dwilliams@mgma.com if you would like to appear on an episode. 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.

In this episode of the MGMA Podcast, we sit down with Rana McSpadden, FACMPE, CHPC, CPC, a consultant with the Medical Practice Services department of SVMIC, to explore the growing risks of ransomware and cybersecurity threats in medical practices. With more than 25 years of healthcare experience, Rana brings expertise in compliance, cybersecurity, patient experience, and practice operations to the discussion.What You’ll Learn:Why ransomware attacks on medical practices are becoming more frequentCommon gaps in healthcare security risk analysis that leave practices vulnerableThe dangers of incomplete malware removal and repeat ransomware attacksHow AI tools like ChatGPT can create cybersecurity risks in healthcareWhat PHI you should never put into public AI systemsReal OCR settlement case studies from practices that experienced breachesKey Takeaway: Many practices have not completed thorough, enterprise-wide security risk analyses—making them prime targets for threat actors. Leadership from the top is essential for building effective cybersecurity programs.📍 Recorded live at the MGMA Leaders Conference 2025 in Orlando, FL🎯 Perfect for: Healthcare administrators, practice managers, medical group leaders, compliance officers, and IT professionals in healthcare settingsEmail us at dwilliams@mgma.com if you would like to appear on an episode. 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.

In this episode of the MGMA Podcast, Seb Terry discusses how he turned a personal list of 100 life goals into a global movement. He explains the science of goal setting, the importance of kindness in achieving results, and practical strategies busy professionals can use to find purpose and satisfaction in both work and life. Hosted by Daniel Williams. Key Timestamped Moments:04:38 – Seb’s turning point: From drifting to defining a life of purpose06:38 – The science of goal setting and why most people fail (and how to succeed)13:00 – The most meaningful item Seb ever checked off his list15:01 – How “100 Things” became a global movement and inspired others17:01 – Advice for overwhelmed professionals: Micro-steps and self-kindness19:17 – How kindness and connection drive real achievementResources & Links:Seb Terry’s 100 Things Movement: https://100things.com/MGMA Leaders Conference: https://mgma.com/leaders“The Top Five Regrets of the Dying” by Bronnie Ware: https://bronnieware.com/regrets-of-the-dying/Seb Terry’s Book “100 Things: What’s on Your List?”: https://www.amazon.com/100-Things-Whats-Your-List/dp/0733626823Seb Terry on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebterry/Seb Terry’s Keynote Speaking: https://sebterry.com/The Castle (Australian film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0118826/Chopper (Australian film): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0221073/MGMA Podcast: https://www.mgma.com/podcastsEmail us at dwilliams@mgma.com if you would like to appear on an episode. 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.

On this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams sits down with David N. Gans, MGMA’s 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. Dave reflects on his decades-long career with MGMA, his role in shaping the organization’s history, and his pioneering work in benchmarking and data-driven decision-making for medical practices. He also shares practical advice for medical practice leaders facing today’s most pressing challenges — from workforce shortages to financial pressures — and reminds us that at the heart of every innovation is the patient.Whether you’re navigating the complexities of group practice management or looking for inspiration from one of the field’s most trusted voices, this episode offers invaluable insights and problem-solving perspectives.Key Takeaways[03:26] Dave reflects on receiving the MGMA Lifetime Achievement Award and the legacy of past recipients.[06:00] A deep dive into MGMA’s origins in 1926 and Dave’s role as an organizational historian.[06:39] How a student internship in 1979 launched Dave’s lifelong career with MGMA and a parallel career in the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps.[14:10] The evolution of MGMA’s benchmarking and survey data—why “good data yields good decisions” remains a guiding principle.[16:44] Real-world example of how one practice in Salt Lake City used MGMA data to transform performance and outcomes.[19:45] Dave’s philosophy on mentorship, collaboration, and why investing time in others always pays dividends.[23:24] Advice for today’s practice leaders: embracing innovation, applying AI responsibly, and never losing sight of the core mission—delivering high-quality patient care.[27:01] A glimpse into Dave’s adventurous side, including his 27th European cycling trip and reflections on lifelong learning.Resources & LinksLearn more about the 2025 MGMA Leaders Conference in Orlando and register to attend Dave Gans’ recognition ceremony.Explore MGMA’s data and benchmarking resources.Read Dave Gans’ contributions: MGMA articles, podcasts, and books. Additional Resources:MGMA PlaybooksMGMA EventsMGMA ConsultingMGMA StatMGMA PodcastsEmail us at dwilliams@mgma.com if you would like to appear on an episode. 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.