President’s Message - October, 2008

 Where has the time gone?  Since our last newsletter, we’ve had two education meetings – Seaside in July and Hood River in September.   The programs were both excellent – thank you’s go to our program committees chaired by Karen Shah and Kim Carter.  In addition, a special 2-hour education session on changes in Medicare Cost Report appeal regulations was held on September 29 in Portland thanks to the coordination efforts of Gordon Edwards.  Our primary goal as a chapter is to provide excellent educational opportunities to our members, and we are off to a great start this year.

 

Planning program content, setting up conference venues, registering attendees, conducting membership campaigns, and coordinating our certification efforts are just some of the tasks Oregon HFMA volunteers take on.  Without all our wonderful volunteers, not much would get done!  There are rewards in volunteering for our Chapter not least of which is meeting other healthcare finance professionals from around the State.  It’s a great way to influence how our Chapter meets the goals of providing education and networking opportunities, helping members with certification, and communicating the many benefits that HFMA has to offer its members.

 

Each year around January, we look for new committee co-chairs to begin their roles on June 1.  In the co-chair role, you learn about the committee and expectations of the position.  The next year, you take over as committee chair – how’s that for a fast promotion!  The committees are:

Finance Program

Patient Accounts Program

Membership

Member Activities

Communications

Certification

Sponsorship

Finance Problem-Solving

Patient Accounts-Problem Solving

 

So now you’re wondering, “How can I get involved?”   Simple!  Terrie Handy, our Secretary this year, will be coordinating the selection of co-chairs.  If you are interested, please email her at .  Or talk with any of the Officers and Board Members.  Volunteering is a great way to increase your participation in the Oregon Chapter.

 

Barbara White

Oregon Chapter President, 2008-09