Last week, in San Diego, members of the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) met to discuss fundamental issues and changes that are expected to impact medical practices and hospital administration in the coming months.

Highlights of the MGMA 2008 Annual Conference included:
- Ann Jillian, three-time Emmy and Golden Globe award-winning actress and singer, who spoke on hope and living after surviving breast cancer
- Quint Studer, CEO, Holy Cross Hospital, Chicago, who spoke on evidence-based leadership

- William F. Jessee, MD, FACMPE, President/CEO of MGMA, who delivered the keynote address on the state of healthcare in the U.S.
- Building Blocks Toward Pay-for-Performance, a national seminar presented to assist practitioners in developing forward-thinking strategies and proficiencies
- Pre-conference programs which targeted leaders and executives involved with orthopedics, surgical practices, neuroscience, pathology and gastroenterology
- Masters Series sessions that provided more in-depth programs for seasoned administrators, and
- Usability training for the MGMA online community.

Also offered were workshops and activities involving the College of Medical Practice Executives (CMPE) certification and fellowship. The ACMPE certification, through MGMA, provides leadership development and supports professional growth of health care leaders in the medical management profession.

Members can share their knowledge in the 2009 MGMA conference by answering the current call for speakers. To apply, visit http://www.mgma.com/ac/default.aspx?id=18458