MGMA Podcasts

This episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast opens with Jeff Smith, CEO of Piedmont Healthcare and MGMA’s incoming board chair, delivering testimony before the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging. Speaking on behalf of MGMA members, Jeff laid out the real-world consequences of administrative burden — from prior authorization and regulatory pressure to physician burnout, staffing strain, and threats to patient access. Following the opening testimony, Jeff joins host Daniel Williams, Sr. Editor at MGMA, for a wide-ranging conversation that expands on those themes, exploring what policymakers often miss, how payment and workforce challenges are reshaping independent practice, and what it will take to reduce burnout and let physicians — and their teams — focus on caring for patients again. Episode Takeaways Burnout is no longer theoretical — it’s driving physicians out of practice. Prior authorization is compounding workforce and access problems. Payment policy and administrative skepticism are sending mixed signals to physicians. Primary care faces a pipeline problem. Front desk staff may have the hardest job in health care. Congress is listening—but complexity remains a barrier. Inadequate Medicare updates threaten independent practice viability. If reform starts anywhere, start with predictable, fair payment updates. Jeff Smith Contact Jeff on LinkedInJeff's full U.S. Senate testimony(YouTube video)Related Resources MGMA member‑exclusive Medical Practice Staffing Solutions PlaybookManaging physician transitions for long-term team building(MGMA Insight article) Rebuilding trust in revenue cycle teams after turnover and burnout in critical access hospitals(MGMA Insight article)Upcoming!How One Organization Connected the Pieces of Workforce Operations (MGMA webinar)April 30, 2026 Sponsor: Capella University helps healthcare professionals earn their MHA on their terms. Their FlexPath MHA program is designed for busy MGMA members who want to advance their leadership skills with a flexible, self‑paced format — often faster and more affordably — without putting their careers on hold. Questions? Visit capella.edu/MHA to learn more.

On this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams, senior editor at MGMA, welcomes Brian Gietzen, MD, medical director at Legacy Medical Group, for a thoughtful conversation on a care philosophy his practice calls benefits‑based medicine. Dr. Gietzen shares how this approach challenges the limits of rigid guideline‑driven care by reframing clinical conversations around evidence and real‑world relevance. Drawing from his experience in internal medicine and geriatric care across southeast Michigan, he explains how a more contextual, patient‑centered dialogue helps patients better navigate treatment choices, preventive care, and questions around risk — without pressure or assumptions. Key Takeaways Clinical guidelines offer direction, but not always clarity.Outcomes matter more than checkboxes.Evidence becomes more useful when put in context.Screenings land differently when the end goal is explicit.Risk conversations work best when frequency and severity are clear.Vaccination discussions improve without performative persuasion.This approach scales with curiosity, not complexity.Shared decision‑making doesn’t dilute expertise.Contact Legacy Medical: LinkedIn | Facebook | Website Sponsor: Capella University helps healthcare professionals earn their MHA on their terms. Their FlexPath MHA program is designed for busy MGMA members who want to advance their leadership skills with a flexible, self‑paced format — often faster and more affordably — without putting their careers on hold. Questions? Visit capella.edu/MHA to learn more.

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host and senior editor Daniel Williams sits down with Bob Bush, a seasoned healthcare executive and MGMA leader, to explore one of the most overlooked — and perhaps most critical — aspects of medical practice management: succession planning. Drawing from decades of experience, Bob shares practical strategies for identifying future leaders, avoiding operational disruption, and building a sustainable organization. The conversation also touches on leadership development tools, lessons learned from real-world failures, and how proactive planning can prevent chaos when key team members leave. Whether you're leading a large medical group or a smaller outpatient practice, this episode offers actionable insights to help you future-proof your organization. Key Takeaways [05:10] Getting to know Bob Bush [05:55] Why succession planning is NOT optional on day one[06:27] Succession planning goes beyond leadership roles [09:03] Lessons from failure: what happens without a plan [12:32] The retirement reality check for leaders 5-year transition process[15:35] Practical tools for succession planning (visit the video version of this interview on YouTube to view Bob's screenshares) [19:46] Identifying future leaders within your organization 9-box talent grid[23:55] From recruiter to practice leader [26:10] Why MGMA certification and continuing education matter [00:33:18] The human side of leadership transitions Resources Is Your Practice Ready for its Next Chapter of Leadership?The Ruthless Elimination of HurryMidlife Chrysalis Succession Planning Template Sponsor: Capella University helps healthcare professionals earn their MHA on their terms. Their FlexPath MHA program is designed for busy MGMA members who want to advance their leadership skills with a flexible, self‑paced format — often faster and more affordably — without putting their careers on hold. Questions? Visit capella.edu/MHA to learn more.

In this special MGMA Insights Podcast episode for Women’s History Month, Daniel Williams, senior editor at MGMA and host of the MGMA Podcast Network, speaks with Cheryl Mangiello, Dolores McNair and Paola Turchi, facilitators of MGMA’s Women Healthcare Leaders Resource Group. The dynamic conversation explores the realities of being a woman leader in healthcare today, including mentorship gaps, work-life integration, leadership isolation, vulnerability in the workplace, and the importance of creating trusted peer networks. This episode offers a practical perspective for medical practice leaders looking to strengthen leadership development, build support systems, and create healthier workplace cultures. Key Takeaways [0:52] – Why this conversation matters during Women’s History Month [2:08] – Cheryl Mangiello on the pressure facing independent practices [3:29] – Dolores McNair on bridging clinical and administrative leadership [5:17] – Paola Turchi on leadership isolation and the need for peer networks [8:54] – Women leaders are still struggling with work-life demands and missing mentorship [11:31]– Bridging clinical and administrative leadership perspectives [14:27] – Protected reflection time is a leadership necessity, not a luxury [17:56] – Vulnerability and psychological safety help teams grow [20:47] – The resource group works because it is confidential, flexible and member-led [25:03] – “Work-life balance” may be the wrong goal [27:14] – Women’s advancement still faces structural and internal barriers [30:01]– Why women don’t take the space they’re given [32:09] – Loneliness at the top can be addressed intentionally [36:37] – Final message: Be seen, be heard, take the risk and lift others up Related Resources MGMA Member Resource GroupsMGMA CommunityMGMA Mentor Program MGMA Book Club "Is Your Practice Ready for its Next Chapter of Leadership?" Sponsor: Capella University helps healthcare professionals earn their MHA on their terms. Their FlexPath MHA program is designed for busy ...

“Google showed me how to innovate. Art taught me how to do it differently.” On this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams sits down with Tucker Bryant, a former Silicon Valley leader turned poet and keynote speaker, to explore what innovation really means in today’s healthcare environment. As the opening keynote speaker for the MGMA Operations Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina (April 12–14), Bryant brings a fresh and unconventional perspective to leadership — blending lessons from technology, art, and poetry to challenge how organizations think about change. Together, Williams and Bryant unpack why imitation is often the biggest risk in an era of powerful tools like AI, how constraints can actually fuel creativity, and what medical practice leaders can do to break out of routine thinking — even in highly regulated, bureaucratic environments. The conversation offers practical frameworks leaders can apply immediately, from “refusing the first answer” to running small, low‑risk experiments that build buy‑in and momentum. Key Takeaways [01:56]The path from Silicon Valley to poetry [03:27]Why “doing different things differently” matters more than doing the same things better [04:55] The hidden danger of imitation during times of rapid change [09:40] How to break out of habitual thinking by “refusing the first answer” [11:27] Constraints as catalysts, not barriers, to innovation [16:22] What poetry teaches leaders about healthcare innovation experience[21:00] Why micro‑experiments are the key to getting buy‑in in bureaucratic environments [23:00] What to expect from Bryant’s opening keynote at the MGMA Operations Conference Resources Tucker Bryant's websiteTucker on LinkedInMGMA Operations Conference (April 12–14, Charlotte, NC) Sponsor: Capella University helps healthcare professionals earn their MHA on their terms. Their FlexPath MHA program is designed for busy MGMA members who want to advance their leadership skills with a flexible, self‑paced format — often faster and more affordably — without putting their careers on hold. Questions? Visit capella.edu/MHA to learn more.

In this episode of the MGMA Business Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and Host Daniel Williams is joined by Amy Otto and Kyle Hadley of LocumTenens.com to explore how transition management can help healthcare organizations maintain continuity of care during periods of staffing change. Together, they unpack why transitions — whether driven by rising subsidies, expiring contracts, workforce shortages, or service line realignment — represent high‑risk moments for patient care, finances, and staff morale. Drawing on real‑world examples from anesthesia and radiology, the conversation highlights how proactive, structured transition management transforms chaos into stability, protects patient access, and positions organizations for long‑term operational success. Key Takeaways [01:50]Rising costs and loss of control often trigger transition discussions [03:32]Transitions are no longer rare events — they are the new normal [05:00]Reactive transitions drive higher costs and operational friction [06:12]Effective transition management turns disruption into stability — by design [09:14] The discovery phase is the most critical step [14:20] Stabilization requires centralized oversight and clear accountability [16:14] Data builds trust and reduces anxiety during change [20:32]Success means patients never notice the transition Resources LocumTenens.comAmy OttoKyle HadleyLocum Tenens Physician Staffing Playbook

On this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams is joined by Doug Lewis, Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Sentara Health and board member of the Association for Advancing Physician and Provider Recruitment (AAPPR). This episode explores the continually adapting landscape of physician and provider recruitment — from shifting candidate expectations and family‑centered relocation decisions to compensation strategy, locum tenens pressure, and longer hiring timelines. Drawing on Doug’s frontline recruiting experience and national perspective through AAPPR, this conversation delivers practical insights for medical practice leaders navigating workforce shortages, competition for hard‑to‑recruit specialties, and the need for sustainable, long‑term talent strategies in 2026 and beyond. Key Takeaways [04:15]Recruitment decisions are now family decisions — not just physician decisions [08:58] Candidate priorities have shifted from compensation-first to lifestyle-first [10:58] Flexible work models like job sharing are growing — but complex to execute [13:52] Hiring timelines are getting longer — and communication matters more than ever [17:19] Compensation strategy must balance fairness, transparency, and sustainability [19:15] Locum tenens use reflects deeper workforce challenges [21:04] Recruiter burnout is real — and leadership must address it [22:37] Strong recruiter–leader partnerships drive better workforce outcomes Resources Contact Doug on LinkedInSentara HealthAssociation for Advancing Physician and Provider Recruitment (AAPPR)MGMA Physician Hiring PlaybooksMember-exclusive, downloadable playbooks provide actionable insights, proven strategies, and step-by-step guidance for practice leaders. Podcast Sponsor MGMA BestPrice Managing your supply chain doesn’t have to be complicated. MGMA BestPrice — the exclusive GPO for MGMA members — can help your practice save up to 20% on medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, office essentials, employee perks, waste management and more. This free national member benefit connects you to some of the most competitive pricing in the industry, helping every dollar saved become a dollar reinvested into better patient care and stronger operations. Learn how to start saving today at mgmabestprice.org.

On this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams is joined by Steve Gutzler, nationally recognized leadership expert and opening keynote speaker at the 2026 MGMA Financial Conference in Phoenix. This episode explores how emotional intelligence, stress regulation, and self‑leadership determine a leader’s true influence — especially during what Steve calls the “17% moments”: high‑pressure situations when emotions spike, decisions are harder, and leadership reputations are made or broken. Designed for medical practice leaders, financial executives, and MGMA members, this conversation delivers practical strategies for managing emotional hijacking, leading difficult conversations, sustaining resilience during financial pressure, and setting the emotional tone for teams in healthcare’s most demanding environments. Key Takeaways [02:28] What “17% Moments” Are — and Why They Matter More Than Strategy [04:54] Why Healthcare Leaders Are Especially Vulnerable to Emotional Fatigue [06:20] Recognizing Emotional Hijacking Before It Takes Over [10:55] The 18‑Minute Rule: How Long Emotional Hijacking Really Lasts [12:30] Calling a “Timeout” in Real‑World Leadership Conversations [14:20] Managing Others’ Stress Through Empathy, Not Facts [16:33] Leading When Financial Targets Aren’t Met [21:11] Why Leaders Set the Emotional Thermostat Resources 2026 MGMA Financial Conference Steve'sKeynote Session: “17% Moments: Discover the Brain Science of Emotions and High‑Performance Leadership” Steve Gutzler website Podcast Sponsor MGMA BestPrice Managing your supply chain doesn’t have to be complicated. MGMA BestPrice — the exclusive GPO for MGMA members — can help your practice save up to 20% on medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, office essentials, employee perks, waste management and more. This free national member benefit connects you to some of the most competitive pricing in the industry, helping every dollar saved become a dollar reinvested into better patient care and stronger operations. Learn how to start saving today at mgmabestprice.org.

On this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast — Business Solutions, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams sits down with Casey Benefield, Senior Director of National Account Sales at MGMA BestPrice, and Christy Farrow, Director of Channel Partnerships at HealthTrust. Together, they unpack how MGMA BestPrice, MGMA’s exclusive group purchasing organization (GPO), helps medical practices of all sizes reduce supply and service costs — often by double digits — without disrupting existing workflows or vendor relationships. From understanding what a GPO actually is to exploring real savings opportunities across clinical and non‑clinical categories, this conversation is designed to help medical practice leaders facing rising costs and shrinking margins make smarter purchasing decisions. Key Takeaways [02:19] What MGMA BestPrice is — and why it matters to medical practices [03:09] What a GPO does and how it solves a real operational problem [03:58] Who MGMA BestPrice is designed for (hint: it’s not just large groups) [08:59] Where practices see the greatest savings — beyond medical supplies 20%[09:30] The biggest misconception about GPOs — and why it costs practices money is[12:03]Why MGMA BestPrice is different from other national GPOs [14:30]How to validate savings before committing [20:10] Real‑world impact: $25.3 million saved in one year Resources MGMA BestPrice MGMA BestPrice Phone Number (Enrollment is free and takes approximately two minutes. A dedicated account manager supports members throughout onboarding and beyond.) Podcast Sponsor MGMA BestPrice Managing your supply chain doesn’t have to be complicated. MGMA BestPrice — the exclusive GPO for MGMA members — can help your practice save up to 20% on medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, office essentials, employee perks, waste management and more. This free national member benefit connects you to some of the most competitive pricing in the industry, helping every dollar saved become a dollar reinvested into better patient care and stronger operations. Learn how to start saving today at mgmabestprice.org.

This week on the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams chats with communication strategist Pamela Barnum, whose undercover law‑enforcement career and time as a federal prosecutor offer a masterclass in reading people fast. Their conversation dives into those invisible layers of communication: the signals, cues, and micro‑behaviors that shape trust long before words do. Barnum breaks down her 3D Communication Framework (Display, Decode, Deliver), offering actionable strategies to defuse conflict, sharpen communication, improve team connection, and manage the rise in disruptive behavior in healthcare environments. This episode also previews her keynote at next month's MGMA Financial Conference. Key Takeaways [06:08]Understanding the real weight of nonverbal communication majority[08:50] Combatting time pressure and distraction in healthcare settings [12:25]The 3D Communication Framework: Display, Decode, Deliver [14:45] How to project calm confidence in emotionally charged moments [17:03]Leaning into difficult conversations instead of avoiding them [21:09] How experts truly read behavior (and what not to assume) [24:27]Barnum’s #1 tactic for slowing the moment and de‑escalating conflict Resources Mentioned MGMA Events MGMA Financial Conference Pamela Barnum, keynote “Crack the Code: 3D Communication Strategies for Powerful Results” Books, Shows & Media Referenced Rush (1991 film) Rush The WireNYPD BlueLie to MeNarcos Paul Ekman Group Podcast Sponsor MGMA BestPrice Managing your supply chain doesn’t have to be complicated. MGMA BestPrice — the exclusive GPO for MGMA members — can help your practice save up to 20% on medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, office essentials, employee perks, waste management and more. This free national member benefit connects you to some of the most competitive pricing in the industry, helping every dollar saved become a dollar reinvested into better patient care and stronger operations. Learn how to start saving today at mgmabestprice.org.

On this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams sits down with returning guest Amy Lafko — MGMA consultant, speaker, creator of the People First Method, and author of People First. Amy shares practical, immediately usable strategies for medical practice leaders navigating 2026’s rapidly shifting regulatory landscape, workforce challenges, and rising emotional strain within healthcare teams. From strengthening adaptability to reinventing onboarding, Amy delivers a toolkit that helps leaders build environments where teams feel supported, patients receive better care, and organizations thrive. KEY TAKEAWAYS (00:53) Amy’s healthcare leadership background shapes her "people first" philosophy(02:00) Adaptability is the #1 leadership skill for 2026(03:36) Productive conflict should be trained at all levels, not just leadership(05:20) Rising frustration is being mistaken for “more conflict”(08:03)The People First Method flips the traditional patient‑first mindsetis(10:19)Onboarding must shift from task‑checking to “alignment and inspiration”(12:26)Weekly check‑ins using five simple questions transform new‑hire success(13:53)People‑first cultures start with one deceptively simple factor: willingness RESOURCES Amy Lafko Amy Lafko's websitePeople First: A Method for Developing Leadership and Team Culture - bookMGMA Medical Practice Staffing Solutions PlaybookMedical Practice Staff Onboarding PlaybookHuman Resources Management CertificateHuman Resources resources

On this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams sits down with Aaqil Khan, RCM consultant at Collectly, to uncover the “sneaky metrics” hiding inside your revenue cycle. These overlooked indicators can quietly erode patient collections, increase costs, and create friction in the patient financial experience. Aaqil brings deep experience in healthcare administration, Six Sigma process improvement, analytics, and revenue cycle leadership to show practice leaders where the real problems hide — and how to solve them using clearer ownership, automation, better data definitions, and patient‑centric design. Key Takeaways [02:13] Aaqil Khan’s background [08:13] The importance of estimate accuracy [09:32] Why critical revenue cycle KPIs fall through the cracks [15:01] "Sneaky metrics" and patient collection rate pitfalls [17:40] Impactful patient experience and payment reform [21:47] The hidden story inside patient AR days and patient inquiry volume [26:15] Looking ahead Resources Contact Aaquil on LinkedInCollectly MGMA Revenue Cycle Management Resources“All the Queen’s Horses”documentary on Amazon Prime

On this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams welcomes Christy Bray, MHA, CPRP‑DEI, Chief Customer Officer at PracticeLink and host of the Workforce Wisdom podcast. As MGMA kicks off 2026 with a month‑long focus on workforce issues — recruitment, retention, culture, and onboarding — Christy brings decades of experience in physician and provider recruitment to share what’s changed, what’s trending, and what today’s medical practice leaders must do to stay competitive. From early‑career job search behavior and shrinking talent pools to recruitment marketing, job board strategy, DEI’s role in matching candidates to communities, and the impact of technology and AI, Christy offers tactical and strategic insights that can immediately help MGMA members strengthen their workforce pipelines. KEY TAKEAWAYS “Recruitment finds you.” – Christy Bray on her path into the field [01:56] Christy shares her origins in orthopedics, sports medicine, and hospital leadership — and why most recruiters arrive via nontraditional paths. The biggest change: Candidates commit much earlier [03:26] Residents and fellows now begin searching 12–18 months before completion — and some even sign on match day, cutting traditional recruitment windows dramatically. Why every job must be posted — and posted correctly [08:50] Christy explains why job visibility, keyword optimization, and clear role descriptions are essential for search engines and AI‑driven job discovery. Targeted outreach beats the “shotgun approach” [09:58] Mass‑messaging “10,000 people” leads to unsubscribes. Christy outlines how to curate small, qualified candidate pools — and measure success through open rate, CTR, and text‑to‑contact options. Recruitment is a long game — and budget fears slow down patient access [10:56] With the talent pool “shrinking rapidly,” practices must prepare for longer vacancies and avoid hesitating on locums support. Essential 2026 trends: uncertainty, reduced teams, and tech‑forward recruiting [12:40] Hiring teams are “stretched,” some dismantled entirely. Geo‑targeting, small high‑ROI advertising tactics, and hybrid old/new recruitment strategies (postcards + digital ads) are key. Strategic plans start with a workforce inventory [14:44] Christy’s pantry analogy: Practices must know their provider counts, ages, FTE loads, and retirement risks. Many older clinicians work at “1.5 to 2.5 FTE,” meaning replacement calculations require multiplying needs. DEI certification isn’t performative — it’s about fit and retention [24:13] Christy explains the CPRP‑DEI credential and why diversity and representation matter in recruitment: “Access to care is limited if somebody doesn’t speak your language or doesn’t look like you.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Christy Bray on LinkedInPracticeLinkAssociation for Advancing Physician & Provider Recruitment (AAPPR) Christy Bray's Podcasts: Workforce Wisdom with Christy Bray Surviving and Thriving in Residency

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and Host Daniel Williams chats with Jessica Minesinger, founder and CEO of Surgical Compensation and Consulting, about some of the most pressing challenges facing medical practice leaders in 2026. From physician shortages and recruitment hurdles to compensation transparency and organizational culture, Jessica shares actionable strategies to help practices attract and retain top talent while fostering trust and engagement. If you’re a medical practice leader looking to start the year strong, this conversation is packed with insights you can put into practice today. Key Takeaways [02:19] Physician Shortage and Its Impact [07:07] Recruitment Roadblocks in 2026 [12:39] Aligning Fit Beyond Compensation [16:50] The Vulnerable Transition Period [19:55] Communication is Culture [21:50] Back to Basics: Common Sense in Compensation [23:43] MGMA Data Trends for 2026 Resources Jessica on LinkedInSurgical Compensation and ConsultingMGMA & Jackson Physician Search Research Report (2025)MGMA DataDiveMGMA Conferences

In this special New Year’s Eve episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams looks back at three of the most impactful conversations from 2025. These highlights focus on the biggest challenges and opportunities facing medical practice leaders today: Finding and keeping good peopleChoosing tools and technologySupporting clinician and staff well-beingWhether you’re revisiting these discussions or hearing them for the first time, you’ll find actionable insights to help you build a stronger, more resilient practice in 2026. We here at MGMA wish you a very happy new year! Key Highlights [01:05] Liz Mahan on Strategic Recruitment and Retention [08:33] Julia Rosen on Building Sustainable Tech Infrastructure [16:29] Dr. Michael Blackman on AI and Reducing Burnout Related Resources Liz Mahan Julia Rosen Michael BlackmanAAPPR Recruitment ResourcesGreenway Clinical AssistMGMA Human Resources InsightsMGMA Technology Resources

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 [07:35] Why Networking is Non-Negotiable [07:49] The Power of Mentorship [10:49] The Go-Giver Philosophy in Action The Go-Giver[18:12] Solving Payer Challenges Through Collaboration [21:07] AI and Prior Authorization: What Leaders Need to Know [27:49] Navigating MGMA Resources Efficiently Resources & Links Mentioned Carol Ittig on LinkedInOrthopedic Executives Association (AOE)CHORTHO Cares FoundationThe Go-GiverMGMA Membership MGMA Mentor ProgramMGMA Book Clubdwilliams@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 Takeaways 03:55 From Finance to Healthcare Leadership 07:39 Technology’s Impact on Healthcare 11:00 Recruiting in Rural Communities 12:45 Building Team Culture 15:17 Staffing Pain Points 17:27 Remote Work in Healthcare 23:55 The Power of MGMA Membership 26:24 Why Mentorship Matters Resources Mentioned Tony on LinkedInMGMA Membership BenefitsJackson Physician SearchDaniel Williams dwilliams@mgma.orgMGMA 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 Takeaways 02:45 Dr. Ballester’s Unique Journey 06:27 The Pain Points of Prior Authorization 08:01 Introducing EasyPA 11:37 The “220-Minute Case” 22:19 Preparing for Regulatory Changes Jan 1, 2027 17:22 Choosing the Right Tech Tools 24:22 Leadership and Representation 26:35 Life Beyond Medicine Resources & Links EasyPAPaola Ballester, MD,CMS Rule 57FMGMA 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: MGMA Book Club (Align the Mind – December Selection) Send an email of interest to Daniel Williams - dwilliams@mgma.com MGMA 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 04:42 A Personal Healthcare Journey 06:08 Career Path & Lessons Learned 09:05 Connecting with MGMA 11:05 Writing for MGMA 12:36Allen's Passion for Writing Stemmed from his Love of Reading 19:28 Book Recommendations & Lifelong Learning 25:07 Maximizing Mentor-Mentee Programs 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 CertificationMGMA Mentor ProgramNew and improved! Books DiscussedThe Count of Monte CristoEast of EdenLook Homeward, AngelAlign the MindShatterproofThe MoviegoerA Series of Unfortunate Events