In this episode of the MGMA Business Solutions Podcast, host Daniel Williams talks with Paul Wiley, President of AvodahMed, a leader in healthcare technology. Wiley shares his journey from the airline industry to healthcare and how his company leverages artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to improve clinical documentation and streamline healthcare operations. The conversation touches on key insights into the future of healthcare AI, its role in reducing physician burnout, and operational efficiency improvements.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of AI in Healthcare: Wiley discusses how AI, particularly ambient AI, is transforming healthcare by operating in the background, allowing doctors to focus more on patient care and less on administrative tasks. “Ambient AI really focuses on being in the background, which is where, in my opinion, it belongs in healthcare,” he explains​.
• Improving Operational Efficiency: Wiley highlights how AvodahMed's flagship product, Insights, helps streamline clinical documentation and coding processes, allowing physicians to reduce time spent on paperwork. "We aim to eliminate the keyboard from the doctor's office entirely," Wiley emphasizes​.
• Addressing Physician Burnout: One of the major advantages of AI in healthcare, according to Wiley, is its potential to reduce physician burnout by minimizing after-hours documentation. “We’re seeing on average an hour saved every day for physicians who no longer need to complete notes at home,” says Wiley​.
• Operational Impact Beyond Physicians: The benefits of AI-based solutions like Insights extend beyond doctors. Wiley discusses how the automation of coding and billing improves accuracy and efficiency for administrative staff, creating a ripple effect that enhances overall organizational performance​.
• The Importance of Workflow Integration: For AI to be effective in healthcare, Wiley emphasizes that it must integrate seamlessly into existing workflows. “If it's not easy to use, no one's going to use it,” he asserts. AvodahMed focuses on ensuring its tools fit within the daily operations of healthcare providers​.

Resources and Links:

• Learn more about AvodahMed and its AI-based solutions for healthcare operations here.

Stay tuned for more innovative solutions for medical practice leaders on the MGMA Business Solutions Podcast.

Host: Daniel Williams, Senior Editor, MGMA

Cohost: Cristy Good, Senior Advisor, MGMA

Introduction:
In this episode of MGMA Week in Review, Daniel Williams is joined by Cristy Good, Senior Advisor at MGMA, filling in as co-host. The episode dives into two key topics: the challenges of adopting value-based care and advice for leaders transitioning into new roles. Cristy shares her insights into the upcoming MGMA Leaders Conference, where she will be a featured contributor for the Operations Management edition of MGMA’s Advanced Strategy Series.

Key Takeaways:

• Challenges of Value-Based Care: Many practices face hurdles in adopting value-based care, including administrative burdens, resource constraints, and insufficient payer collaboration. Smaller practices, in particular, struggle with the upfront costs of transitioning to this model. However, CMS is driving initiatives to fully enroll Medicare beneficiaries in value-based care by 2030. Collaboration with payers, AI for data management, and ongoing staff training can ease the administrative load​.
• Leadership Traps to Avoid: Drawing from an article in Harvard Business Review, Daniel highlights four traps leaders should avoid when transitioning to new roles: lingering in their old role, the adrenaline trap, rushing to judgment, and being rigid in leadership style. Leaders must remain adaptable and open-minded when entering new positions​.
• Advanced Strategy Series – Operations Management Edition: Cristy Good discusses her contribution to the Operations Management edition of MGMA’s Advanced Strategy Series. Her chapter focuses on risk management in medical practices, exploring strategies to help healthcare leaders balance patient safety with operational efficiency. She emphasizes the importance of a risk management framework to ensure long-term success​.

Resources and Links:

• Learn more about value-based care with sessions at the upcoming MGMA Leaders Conference here.
• Read the full article "Four Traps to Avoid as You Transition into a Leadership Role" from Harvard Business Review here.
• Explore free on-demand webinars on value-based care at MGMA here.
• Check out the latest MGMA Books

Stay tuned for more insights and updates in healthcare leadership on the MGMA Week in Review Podcast.

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This podcast is brought to you by ZOLL Data Systems software and data solutions for healthcare financial professionals. ZOLL A-R Boost is the comprehensive, automated R-C-M optimization solution suite that automatically finds, corrects, and verifies patient and payer information ​to capture more revenue, reduce administrative burden, and improve the patient financial experience. The #1 Black Book rated Insurance Discovery tool can discover active, billable coverage for more than 40% of claims. Visit www.ZOLLData.com/A-R Boost to learn about the complete solution suite.

MGMA Analytics
In the ever-changing world of healthcare, it's important to leverage data to make informed decisions and quick adjustments to your business, especially regarding your revenue cycle strategy and operations. MGMA Analytics is an advanced cloud-based analytics tool that delivers immediate access to real-time business insights derived from your internal financial, operational and telehealth data, which you can use to keep your practice running at optimal performance. Visit https://www.mgma.com/analytics to learn more.

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams welcomes Kelly Ladd, the CEO of Piedmont Internal Medicine in Georgia and the MGMA Legislative Liaison of the Year. Kelly shares her journey of becoming a passionate advocate for small medical practices, navigating the complex legislative landscape and the critical role MGMA plays in supporting administrators like herself.

Key Takeaways:

• Kelly's Unexpected Honor: Kelly describes her initial reaction to being named the MGMA Legislative Liaison of the Year. "I was very shocked, and I was actually rendered speechless. Anyone who knows me knows that is quite a feat, because I typically have something to say on pretty much everything."
• Establishing Piedmont Internal Medicine: Kelly recounts the whirlwind process of offboarding 10 physicians from a health system and launching a private practice in just six weeks, highlighting the importance of MGMA resources during this transition.
• The Vital Role of MGMA for Small Practices: Kelly emphasizes the critical need for small and medium-sized practices to be part of an organization like MGMA, which provides essential information, networking opportunities and support to navigate the complex regulatory landscape.
• Navigating the Legislative Landscape: Kelly shares her journey into advocacy, starting with her involvement in a local ENT organization and eventually becoming an active participant in MGMA's legislative efforts at the state and federal levels.
• The Impact of Legislation on Small Practices: Small practices face significant financial strain due to decreasing reimbursements and increasing expenses. Such challenges underscore the importance of advocating for policies that consider the operational and financial implications.
• Encouraging Grassroots Advocacy: Kelly encourages MGMA members to actively participate in the organization's advocacy efforts, such as responding to surveys, contacting their representatives, and sharing personal stories to help legislators understand the real-world impact of proposed policies.
• Kelly's Passion Beyond Her Professional Role: In addition to her advocacy work, Kelly shares her involvement as a Taekwondo instructor and her commitment to supporting homeless youth through organizations like Covenant House.

Resources:

• MGMA Legislative Liaison Program
• MGMA Advocacy
• Piedmont Internal Medicine
• 2024 MGMA Awards Recipients
• Covenant House of Georgia

Connect with MGMA:

• Visit our website: MGMA.com
• Follow us on LinkedIn: MGMA LinkedIn
• Follow us on Twitter: @MGMA

Subscribe and Leave a Review:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners!

Zoll Data Systems
This podcast is brought to you by ZOLL Data Systems software and data solutions for healthcare financial professionals. ZOLL A-R Boost is the comprehensive, automated R-C-M optimization solution suite that automatically finds, corrects, and verifies patient and payer information ​to capture more revenue, reduce administrative burden, and improve the patient financial experience. The #1 Black Book rated Insurance Discovery tool can discover active, billable coverage for more than 40% of claims. Visit www.ZOLLData.com/A-R Boost to learn about the complete solution suite.

MGMA Analytics
In the ever-changing world of healthcare, it's important to leverage data to make informed decisions and quick adjustments to your business, especially regarding your revenue cycle strategy and operations. MGMA Analytics is an advanced cloud-based analytics tool that delivers immediate access to real-time business insights derived from your internal financial, operational and telehealth data, which you can use to keep your practice running at optimal performance. Visit https://www.mgma.com/analytics to learn more.

Today's Guests: Steve Quach, MD, CEO of Chimera Leadership Group, and Gwen Dooley, NP, VP of People, Growth, and Strategy at CarePoint Health Colorado

Episode Summary:
In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams interviews Steve Quach and Gwen Dooley, who are both featured speakers at the upcoming MGMA Leaders Conference. Their session, titled Leading Through the Gray: Unlocking Your Greatest Potential, addresses leadership challenges in uncertain and complex environments. The conversation dives into their professional journeys and offers insights on navigating the gray areas of leadership in healthcare, particularly during times of ambiguity and volatility.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Uncertainty in Leadership:
  Steve Quach highlights the difficulty of transitioning from clinician roles to leadership, emphasizing that traditional healthcare training doesn't prepare individuals for the psychological challenges that come with leading in uncertain environments. He explains, “Good leaders don’t avoid discomfort, they run towards it."
• Bridging the Gap Between Clinical and Administrative Roles:
  Gwen Dooley reflects on her transition from bedside care to healthcare administration, acknowledging the divide between the two. She advocates for leadership development to bridge this gap, noting that uncertainty is inherent in both roles.
• Applying the VUCA Framework:
  The concept of VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) was a key theme. Gwen explains that military leaders originally coined this term, which has since been adopted by the business world. The key to managing VUCA? Flexibility, agility, and the willingness to experiment.
• Overcoming Psychological Barriers:
  Both guests stress the importance of recognizing and testing assumptions when faced with uncertainty. “Having a trusted person to help you test those assumptions is essential,” says Gwen. They suggest working with mentors or colleagues to navigate difficult situations.
• The Neuroscience Behind Uncertainty:
  Gwen and Steve share insights on how our brains respond to uncertainty, explaining that while part of our brain craves security, another part thrives on excitement and change. Understanding this duality can help leaders better manage their emotional responses and make more effective decisions.
• Practical Tips for Managing Uncertainty:
  Steve recommends setting aside daily brain space to manage challenges and uncertainty. He emphasizes, “Even 15 minutes to prepare and review each day allows leaders to be more intentional about prioritizing efforts for both short-term and long-term results.”

Resources Mentioned:

• MGMA Leaders Conference – Link to sessions featuring Steve Quach and Gwen Dooley.
• Chimera Leadership Group – Learn more about Steve Quach’s leadership development firm.
• Carepoint Health – Gain more insights about Gwen Dooley.

Be sure to listen to this episode and join the conversation at the MGMA Leaders Conference, where Steve and Gwen will offer further insights into navigating uncertainty and unlocking leadership potential.

Zoll Data Systems
This podcast is brought to you by ZOLL Data Systems software and data solutions for healthcare financial professionals. ZOLL A-R Boost is the comprehensive, automated R-C-M optimization solution suite that automatically finds, corrects, and verifies patient and payer information ​to capture more revenue, reduce administrative burden, and improve the patient financial experience. The #1 Black Book rated Insurance Discovery tool can discover active, billable coverage for more than 40% of claims. Visit www.ZOLLData.com/A-R Boost to learn about the complete solution suite.

MGMA Analytics
In the ever-changing world of healthcare, it's important to leverage data to make informed decisions and quick adjustments to your business, especially regarding your revenue cycle strategy and operations. MGMA Analytics is an advanced cloud-based analytics tool that delivers immediate access to real-time business insights derived from your internal financial, operational and telehealth data, which you can use to keep your practice running at optimal performance. Visit https://www.mgma.com/analytics to learn more.

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams sits down with Steve Dickens, the recipient of the 2024 MGMA Lifetime Achievement Award. Steve shares his remarkable journey, highlighting the pivotal role MGMA has played in his career development and his passion for mentoring the next generation of healthcare leaders. This conversation offers valuable insights for MGMA members looking to maximize their organizational involvement and unlock new opportunities for growth and impact.

Key Takeaways:

• Steve's Early Career and the Importance of Professional Associations: Steve recounts his start in a small town in Tennessee and the pivotal moment when his colleagues encouraged him to join MGMA, leading to a transformative experience.
• The Transformative Power of MGMA Membership: Steve emphasizes the wealth of resources, education and connections MGMA has provided, crediting the organization as a driving force behind his career success.
• Navigating the MGMA-ACMPE Merger: As MGMA Chair during the merger, Steve shares the challenges and triumphs of the process, underscoring the importance of communication and relationship-building.
• Engaging with the MGMA Audience: Steve reflects on his dynamic workshop sessions, highlighting his approach to connecting with the audience and providing practical, problem-solving insights.
• Leveraging Education and Experience: Steve discusses how his formal education, including a Juris Doctor and a Master's in Educational Psychology, have shaped his critical thinking and communication skills, which he applies in his healthcare roles.
• Championing Diversity and Inclusion: Steve's involvement in the Diversity Leadership Council and Practice University demonstrates his commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for healthcare professionals.
• Advice for MGMA Members: Steve encourages members to actively participate, raise their hand, and be willing to put in the work, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and maintaining a positive reputation.
• Reflecting on Career Highlights: Steve shares that his proudest moments have been witnessing the growth and achievements of the individuals he has mentored, underscoring the profound impact of personal connections and relationships.

Resources:

• Steve Dickens at MGMA
• 2024 MGMA Awards Recipients
• MGMA Membership

Connect with MGMA:

• Visit our website: MGMA.com
• Follow us on LinkedIn: MGMA LinkedIn
• Follow us on Twitter: @MGMA

Subscribe and Leave a Review:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners!

Zoll Data Systems
This podcast is brought to you by ZOLL Data Systems software and data solutions for healthcare financial professionals. ZOLL A-R Boost is the comprehensive, automated R-C-M optimization solution suite that automatically finds, corrects, and verifies patient and payer information ​to capture more revenue, reduce administrative burden, and improve the patient financial experience. The #1 Black Book rated Insurance Discovery tool can discover active, billable coverage for more than 40% of claims. Visit www.ZOLLData.com/A-R Boost to learn about the complete solution suite.

MGMA Analytics
In the ever-changing world of healthcare, it's important to leverage data to make informed decisions and quick adjustments to your business, especially regarding your revenue cycle strategy and operations. MGMA Analytics is an advanced cloud-based analytics tool that delivers immediate access to real-time business insights derived from your internal financial, operational and telehealth data, which you can use to keep your practice running at optimal performance. Visit https://www.mgma.com/analytics to learn more.