HFMA Builds Leadership Skills - Department of Health and Human Services - Brief Article

Healthcare Financial Management, April, 2001 by Connie S. Cape

I am a great believer in the fact that when people give of themselves to their communities, they get even more back in return. I know that my volunteer work with Stepping Stones, a horseback-riding program for handicapped adults and children, has enhanced my life and energized me for the challenges of my everyday life.

In all the years that I have volunteered for HFMA, an activity that has led me all the way to the Chairmanship, I have had the satisfaction of knowing that I was giving something positive to my professional community. I know that the time I have spent on chapter, regional, and National HFMA projects and events has helped to enhance the quality of the financial management of healthcare organizations in this country as well as improved the standing of our profession in our organizations and communities.

As a member of HFMA, you know the value you get from the products and services the Association makes available to you. I want to challenge you to do more. HFMA needs for its members to become involved to help our Association continue to offer the kinds of products and services that are most needed by healthcare financial managers. The work you do for HFMA not only will benefit other members, but also will help you advance your career. That is, after all, what HFMA is all about.

Becoming an HFMA leader offers you the chance to:

* Develop leadership skills;

* Have a voice in the Association's future;

* Meet industry decision makers;

* Expand your influence;

* Initiate change; and

* Contribute to a positive future for healthcare delivery.

Every chapter has a number of committees on which to serve, as well as executive positions, such as president and treasurer. Many members who serve at the chapter level move on to one or more appointed leadership positions at National HFMA. Below are listed some of the National activities for members:

Board of Examiners (ROE). The BOE is responsible for reviewing HFMA's professional certification examinations for accuracy, appropriateness, and timeliness. The BOE determines the ultimate composition of the examinations, supervises the creation of study materials, and supervises the certification processes. The BOB and specialty examination groups consist of 15 members who serve three-year terms. The BOB meets two times a year and is responsible for the administration of the entire certification program. (Some travel is required, with expenses paid by HFMA.)

Forum Advisory Councils. Each HFMA Forum (CFO, Patient Financial Services, Corporate Compliance, and Managed Care) has an advisory council that is responsible for establishing operating guidelines, determining the types of services provided, and identifying goals for the Forum. Each Forum Advisory Council consists of seven to nine members who serve three-year terms. Each group meets two to three times a year. (Some travel is required, with expenses paid by HFMA.)

National Advisory Councils (NAC). These councils assist the HFMA Board of Directors and staff in the development of the Association's policies and services. The councils form a network of communication among the various aspects of the Association structure and provide impetus and direction to HFMA's decision-making process. The NAC consists of five Directors of the National Board, Chapter Liaison Representatives, and appointed members who serve two-year terms. The councils meet two times a year. (Some travel is required, with expenses paid by HFMA.)

Principles & Practices (P&P) Board. The P&P Board was established by HFMA in 1975 to reevaluate, clarify, and interpret accounting principles and financial reporting practices of health services organizations for HFMA members. The P&P Board is assigned issues to examine by the HFMA Board of Directors. The P&P Board is composed of 12 members who serve three-year terms. This Board meets two to three times a year. (Some travel is required, with expenses paid by HFMA.)

The above opportunities showcase a number of ways to contribute to HFMA, your profession, and your own professional and personal growth. While there is a time commitment involved in these and other volunteer activities, the benefits to be derived are enormous. If you would like more information about becoming an HFMA leader, contact Heather Etheridge at hetheridge@hfma.org.