Mgma Small Talk

In this episode of the MGMA Member Spotlight Podcast, host Daniel Williams sits down with Katie Komaridis, Senior Manager at ECG Management Consultants, to discuss the evolving landscape of primary care, the challenges facing women’s health services, and the impact of project management on healthcare operations.Katie shares key takeaways from the MGMA Operations Conference, insights on workforce shortages and financial pressures, and strategies for helping medical practices remain competitive. She also highlights the importance of integrating behavioral health into primary care and the role of AI in improving operational efficiency.Key Takeaways from the MGMA Operations Conference [02:30] The impact of technology on medical practice operationsThe integration of behavioral health into primary careHow organizations are rethinking workforce modelsTrends in Women’s Health and Primary Care [07:10]Declining access to maternal healthcare, especially in rural communitiesThe shift toward integrated women’s health mode

In this episode of Ask an Advisor, hosts Daniel Williams and Christie Good delve into the topic of transitioning from paper to digital employee records for practice administrators. They explore the absence of federal laws requiring paper copies, highlight state-specific regulations, and discuss best practices for securing digital files, ensuring legal validity, and maintaining HIPAA compliance. The conversation also covers the importance of having reliable document management systems and IT professional involvement, retention and destruction policies, and the transition process from paper to digital. Show notes and additional resources, including links to EEOC record-keeping requirements and the MGMA HIPAA essentials course, are provided.00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic00:24 The Digital Transition: Can Practices Go Fully Digital?02:26 Compliance and Legal Considerations03:57 Best Practices for Secure Digital Storage06:50 Retention Periods for Employee Records08:17 Ensuring Document Authenticity and Legal

In this episode of MGMA Week in Review, hosts Daniel Williams and Colleen Luckett explore pressing issues impacting healthcare practices today. The episode opens with insights from the Colorado HIMSS Advocacy Day Breakfast, where Colleen shares the latest updates on healthcare cybersecurity and the growing need for vigilance against data breaches and cyber threats. Daniel dives into a recent study showing that patients are willing to wait for their preferred doctors, particularly for complex or personal care, highlighting the ongoing importance of continuity of care.The conversation then shifts to incentive-based pay trends for advanced practice providers, where Colleen and Daniel analyze a modest but notable shift away from heavily incentivized compensation models. Rounding out the discussion, they examine predictions for hospital overcrowding and its downstream impact on outpatient care, stressing the importance of collaboration between hospitals and ambulatory practices to manage patient flow effectively.0

In this episode of MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams sits down with Rob Lawless, founder of Rob's 10k Friends LLC and an upcoming keynote speaker at the MGMA Financial Conference. Rob shares his extraordinary mission to meet 10,000 different people for one hour each, exploring the profound value of human connection. This episode offers medical practice leaders a unique perspective on building meaningful relationships, improving workplace engagement, and understanding the power of intentional interactions.Key Takeaways:The FRIEND Framework for Meaningful Connections:F: Family R: RelationshipsI: Industry (career and education path)E: Entertainment (hobbies outside work)N: NeedsD: Dreams for the futureProblem-Solving Insights for Medical Practice Leaders:Improving Employee Engagement: Rob suggests taking an hour to sit with employees, actively listen, and write their stories back to them. This approach:Forces active listeningCreates a sense of being truly seen and heardPotentially increases talent rete

In this episode, MGMA editor and writer Colleen Luckett talks with women leaders Cheryl Mongillo, MBA; Delores McNair, MHA, ASCP; and Paola Turchi, MSHCA, FHFMA, CPC, FACMPE who discuss their experiences with mentorship, leadership, and the value of networking in professional growth. Paola shares her journey and the importance of building connections; Cheryl speaks on her experience rising from a secretary to a leadership position with the help of mentorship; and Dolores highlights the value of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership roles.00:47 Introduction and Personal Experiences03:06 Dolores' Perspective on Mentorship04:56 Cheryl's Journey and Mentorship Insights06:00 The Importance of Mentorship07:59 Paula's Unique Mentorship Experience10:44 Dolores' Mentorship Journey13:50 Discussion on the Women's Resource Group Meeting21:22 Vulnerability in Leadership26:10 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsAdditional ResourceRead the feature story from Colleen Luckett where she discusses the Women Leaders in Healthcar

In this episode of MGMA Weekend Review podcast, senior editor Daniel Williams and co-host Colleen Luckett discuss key healthcare topics. They begin by highlighting OptumRx's decision to eliminate prior authorizations for around 80 drugs, followed by a segment on the importance of workplace happiness, featuring a case study from Lanco Medical Group. They then cover the latest MGMA stat polling on EHR system updates and improvements and review the challenges alternative care settings face with current EHR technology. The episode also looks at lessons doctors can learn from salmon and the reformation needs of the U.S. mental health care system. 00:47 Introduction and Welcome 01:34 Prior Authorizations Update (Healthcare Dive)03:09 Workplace Happiness Insights (Harvard Business Review)06:22 EHR Systems Update (MGMA Stat) 11:20 Lessons from Salmon for Doctors (Physicians Practice)14:57 Rethinking Mental Health Care (MedCity News)17:05 Conclusion and FarewellResources And Sources:2025 MGMA Financial Conference (Apr

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams sits down with Les Jebson, Regional Administrator at Prisma Health, to unpack the critical challenge of medical equipment acquisition. Jebson brings a wealth of experience from both private and academic healthcare settings, offering medical practice leaders a comprehensive guide to making informed decisions about purchasing, leasing, or renting medical equipment. The conversation explores the financial, strategic, and compliance considerations that can make or break a medical practice's technology investments.Key Takeaways:Value Proposition is ParamountLes emphasizes the importance of objectively evaluating equipment based on:Clinical necessityPotential revenue generationAnticipated lifespan of technologyAlignment with current and future practice needsStrategic Acquisition StrategiesRecommended approach for medical practices:Define capital equipment clearlyConsider pros and cons of purchasing vs. leasingImplement 4-year replacement cycles for

In this episode of the MGMA Week in Review podcast, hosts Daniel Williams and Colleen Luckett discuss the importance of measuring physician job satisfaction and engagement, the impact of recent HHS layoffs, strategies for addressing rising healthcare costs, a personal story about a physician's terminal diagnosis, cybersecurity strategies for healthcare practices, and an upcoming tech-focused healthcare conference. Here's a time-based breakdown so you can go directly to your preferred story:00:47 Introduction and Time Change Discussion01:56 MGMA Stat Polling on Physician Satisfaction05:06 HHS Workforce Reductions and Implications08:26 Healthcare Affordability Crisis10:10 A Physician's Perspective on Terminal Illness13:43 Cybersecurity in Healthcare16:16 Upcoming MGMA Focus Tech Impact Conference17:06 Conclusion and Farewell This episode is brought to you by Zoll Data Systems, software and data solutions for healthcare financial professionals. Zoll AR Boost is the comprehensive automated RCM optimization suite

In this episode of the MGMA Podcast, host Daniel Williams speaks with Roben Farzad, a seasoned journalist, broadcaster, and host of Public Radio’s Full Disclosure. Roben is a keynote speaker at MGMA’s Financial Conference in April, where he will present "Disrupt or Be Disrupted: The Tech and Business Trends You Need to Know."In this discussion, Roben explores the rapid shifts in technology, finance, and healthcare, offering insights into how AI, fintech, and consumer behavior are reshaping industries. He shares lessons from corporate giants, discusses disruption in business and media, and explains how healthcare leaders can stay ahead of innovation.Key Topics DiscussedThe rise of AI and machine learning and its impact on business and healthcareThe importance of financial literacy and democratizing market accessDisruption in technology, including lessons from Apple, Intel, and MicrosoftFintech’s role in healthcare and how it may shape future patient experiencesThe shift in consumer expectations and what it mea

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams welcomes back Kristin Baird, CEO of Baird Group and a nationally recognized expert in patient experience, leadership, and healthcare culture. They discuss the ongoing staffing challenges in healthcare and provide actionable strategies for maintaining high service standards, even during workforce shortages.Key Topics & Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome02:15 – Current Trends in Healthcare PracticesOverview of staffing trends and the impact on healthcare service delivery03:33 – Maintaining Service StandardsHow organizations can uphold service excellence despite workforce challenges06:05 – Strategies for Staff EngagementApproaches to motivate and retain staff in a demanding healthcare environment09:57 – Optimizing Processes and EnvironmentHow automation and process improvements can enhance service quality13:32 – Building a Culture of Service ExcellenceThe role of visible leadership in setting and maintaining service expectation

In this MGMA Week in Review episode, hosts Daniel Williams and Colleen Luckett tackle key healthcare challenges, including rising workplace violence against healthcare workers, staffing shortages, and setbacks to the No Surprises Act after CCIIO layoffs. They also share insights from HIMSS 2025, discuss findings from the HIMSS Cybersecurity Survey, and highlight the role of leadership development in medical practices. The episode concludes with a preview of upcoming MGMA conferences. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts01:25 Workplace Violence in Healthcare (Medical Economics)03:18 Staffing and Salary Survey Insights (Physicians Practice)07:41 Surprise Medical Bills and the No Surprises Act (Fierce Healthcare)09:46 HIMSS 2025 Healthcare Cybersecurity Survey (TechTarget)13:04 Leadership Development in Medical Practices (MGMA Stat)15:41 Upcoming Conferences and Closing Remarks (MGMA Events) This episode is brought to you by Zoll Data Systems, software and data solutions for healthcare financial professionals. Zoll AR B

In this episode of the MGMA Member Spotlight podcast, host Daniel Williams sits down with Jason Raidbard, Executive Administrator for the University of Chicago's Ophthalmology and Visual Science Department, to explore the critical challenges of employee engagement in today's hybrid work environment. Drawing from his extensive experience in healthcare administration, Raidbard shares invaluable insights on building trust, maintaining team productivity, and creating a supportive workplace culture that transcends physical boundaries.Key Takeaways:Employee Engagement StrategiesAchieved a high engagement score through servant leadership principlesFocus on individual team member needs and work-life balanceNormalize conversations about mental health and workplace flexibilityCommunication in Hybrid EnvironmentsUse technology (Teams, Zoom) to maintain connectionBe genuinely present during interactionsQuote: "Be present, listen to your people, ask them for feedback"Preventing BurnoutRecognize signs of stressEncourage br

In this episode of the Women in Healthcare podcast, host Adrienne Lloyd talks with Kripa Krishnan, Vice President of Operations at Northwestern Memorial Healthcare. They discuss Kripa's extensive career journey from public health to executive leadership, the importance of mentorship and sponsorship, and how to find and utilize your strengths in leadership roles. Kripa shares personal anecdotes about the challenges she faced as a woman of color in executive positions and offers practical advice on maintaining authentic leadership in varying organizational cultures. The conversation also touches on building strong partnerships with physicians and balancing empathy with tough decision-making in healthcare.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:36 Kripa Krishnan's Career Journey03:25 The Importance of Sponsorship Over Mentorship11:01 Navigating Executive Presence and Authentic Leadership22:30 Challenges and Advice for Women of Color in Leadership27:23 Building Strong Physician Partnerships30:31 Final Thoughts and

[Editor's Note: Please checkout the full article on MGMA.com]In this special bonus episode of the MGMA Insights podcast, host Colleen Luckett speaks with healthcare leaders Kem Tolliver, FACMPE, CPC, CMOM, Shawntea "Taya" Gordon, MBA, FACMPE about the formation of MGMA's Black Healthcare Leaders Resource Group. They discuss the emotional experience of the group's first gathering at the MGMA Leaders Conference, the importance of representation, and the ongoing impact of this supportive community. They have managed the group along with co-founder Otis C. Fagan, FACMPE. Key Takeaways:The Formation of the Black Healthcare Leaders Resource Group:Taya shared how she and Otis helped launch the group, initially unsure of the response they would receive. "The response was just astounding," she said. "We ran out of chairs." The turnout exceeded expectations and demonstrated the demand for a space like this.The Power of Representation:Taya described the feeling of walking into the group's first meeting as being "like go

In this episode of the MGMA Week in Review podcast, hosts Daniel Williams and Colleen Luckett discuss key healthcare topics, including AI-driven insurance denials, financial strategies for physicians, automation in insurance verification, the importance of employee handbooks, physician productivity trends, and provider compensation insights.Episode Breakdown00:00 Introduction and Greetings01:10 AI in Healthcare: Concerns and Impacts (Chief Healthcare Executive)03:10 Smart Tax Strategies for Physicians (Medical Economics)06:42 Automation in Insurance Verification (MedCity News)08:46 Creating an Effective Employee Handbook (Physicians Practice)11:22 MGMA Stat Poll: Productivity Insights (MGMA Stat)14:16 Conclusion and Wrap-UpAdditional Resources MentionedMGMA DataDive: Provider CompensationMGMA 2024 Compensation Report

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams sits down with Tim Hines, a seasoned marketing executive and author, to discuss how adopting an entrepreneurial "starter mindset" can supercharge the operations of medical practices. Tim shares his personal journey of developing an entrepreneurial spirit and how medical practice leaders can apply these principles to drive innovation and problem-solving, even in highly regulated environments. Tim will be delivering a keynote address at the upcoming 2025 MGMA Operations Conference in Las Vegas. Key Takeaways:The "starter mindset" is about being an agent of change - identifying problems and developing solutions, even within the constraints of a larger organization.Entrepreneurial skills like resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to start new initiatives can be applied by anyone, not just those in startups or those in leadership.Medical practices, whether small or large, face many challenges that can be addressed by embracing an entrepreneur

In this episode of the MGMA Insights podcast, host Daniel Williams sits down with Dr. Leon Moores, a pediatric neurosurgeon, military veteran, and author of the book "All Physicians Lead." Dr. Moores shares his unique perspectives on the critical role of physician leadership in healthcare and provides practical strategies for developing essential leadership skills.Main Points:The Mindset Shift: Recognizing that all physicians are leaders, whether they realize it or notBridging the Gap in Leadership Education: Where physicians can learn and improve their leadership skills beyond medical schoolLessons from the Military: How Dr. Moores's military experience has shaped his approach to leadership in healthcareThe Foundation of Effective Leadership: The importance of credibility and fostering psychological safety on healthcare teamsPractical Strategies: Specific steps physicians can take to enhance their leadership capabilitiesResourcesBooks and Authors:All Physicians Lead by Dr. Leon MooresThe Fearless Organizatio

In this episode of the MGMA Week in Review podcast, hosts Daniel Williams and Colleen Luckett discuss a range of topics affecting the healthcare industry. They begin with UnitedHealth Group's voluntary buyout offers to 30,000 employees amid financial uncertainty and regulatory pressures. The episode also highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy online presence for healthcare practices, featuring insights from Anna Ohler's recent article in Physicians Practice. Leadership success through intentionality is examined through LeRae Quy's Smartbrief article. The hosts discuss the issue of data overload in healthcare, drawing from Jeff Smith's article in Medical Economics. They round off the episode with findings from an MGMA Stat Poll on patient referral management, discussing challenges and strategies for improvement. Tune in for expert insights and practical advice on navigating the complexities of the healthcare industry.00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back01:58 UnitedHealth Group Employee Buyouts (Fier

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams sits down with award-winning storyteller, comedian, and motivational speaker Kelly Swanson to discuss the power of storytelling in healthcare leadership. In this conversation, Kelly shares how medical practice leaders can use storytelling to reframe stress, connect with patients and staff, and create a meaningful workplace culture. Storytelling is more than just entertainment—it’s a leadership tool that can shape culture, improve patient and staff engagement, and create a sense of purpose in even the most stressful environments. If you’re a healthcare leader navigating burnout, administrative overload, and patient care challenges, this episode provides actionable insights to help you use the power of storytelling to lead more effectively.Storytelling as a Leadership Tool"Your story shows us who you are without you having to tell us," Kelly explains.A well-crafted story builds trust among staff, patients, and leadership teams.Leaders can use pe

In this episode of the MGMA Member Spotlight Podcast, host Daniel Williams welcomes Julie Mobley, the founder of Gemstone Consulting and the practice administrator at Coleman Internal Medicine in North Alabama. Julie is set to speak at the upcoming MGMA Operations Conference in Las Vegas, where she will be addressing the topic of navigating patient financial responsibility.Key Takeaways:Julie shares her diverse healthcare journey, including her background in speech pathology, software testing, and eventually transitioning into healthcare administration.Julie has been an MGMA member for 10 years, initially introduced to the organization through her work with an EMR company.As a practice leader, Julie emphasizes the importance of effective communication, emotional intelligence, and understanding personality differences to foster strong team dynamics.Managing a remote chronic care management team presents unique challenges, which Julie addresses through quarterly in-person meetings and leveraging a physician-led