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 operations
• The integration of behavioral health into primary care
• How organizations are rethinking workforce models

Trends in Women’s Health and Primary Care [07:10]

• Declining access to maternal healthcare, especially in rural communities
• The shift toward integrated women’s health models combining primary care and OB/GYN services
• The role of retail healthcare and why some large providers are scaling back

The Changing Landscape of Primary Care [12:45]

• The segmentation of primary care, including senior-focused and gender-specific models
• How independent practices can compete with larger healthcare organizations
• Strategies for adapting to changing payer models and reimbursement structures

Project Management in Healthcare: Best Practices and Common Pitfalls [18:20]

• How structured project management can improve efficiency
• Key mistakes to avoid when implementing projects in medical practices
• A real-world example of how project management supports new service lines

Challenges Facing Medical Groups Today [23:50]

• Staffing shortages and strategies for optimizing workflow
• The impact of AI-driven automation on administrative tasks such as prescription refills
• The uncertain future of value-based care and financial pressures on practices

Expanding Services and Implementing New Programs [29:10]

• Case studies of successful service expansion in high-risk pregnancy and behavioral health
• How practices can optimize existing resources for growth
• Lessons learned from launching new initiatives in medical practice operations

Resources:

• Learn more about ECG Management Consultants: ECGMC.com
• MGMA Body of Knowledge Series
• Connect with Katie Komaridis on LinkedIn