Hiring Help

Question: I am one of the physicians in a single-specialty group. We are currently looking for an experienced office manager, preferably with an MBA or MHA. The search in our community and by asking fellow physicians yielded two candidates. Neither seemed appropriate for us. Is there a better source to find a manager?

Answer: You can try posting an ad with the Medical Group Management Association (www.mgma.com). This is an association for managers and those who are members tend to be a devoted, above-average lot.

You might also consider cherry picking. Is there someone you know who might be an ideal candidate but who now works for someone else (preferably someone who doesn't refer to you)? Maybe you can woo him or her away.

Also, consider chatting with alumni groups or placement services connected with MBA and MHA programs in your area. Talk to professors who teach courses in healthcare management. They may have an ideal candidate for you.

Finally, check out the article Hiring the Best Office Manager by Pamela Moore.