Education is the cornerstone of HFMA’s Georgia Chapter. So it’s no surprise that members can’t seem to get enough of the Chapter’s robust educational programming. In fact, they’ve asked for even more — more topics, more opportunities and more ways to access content. In response, the Chapter added another layer to its already strong educational foundation with the launch of a new webinar series.
The why
The webinar series targets new members and provides them with essential knowledge and insights into leadership development, industry trends and how to strike a healthy, fulfilling work-life balance. The goal is to not only demonstrate the value of Chapter membership but also increase involvement.
“The idea came from wanting to engage new members and build our relationship with them by providing professional development on the skills they need to grow in the healthcare field,” said Kris Seymour, CRCR, CHFP, MBA, director of transformation and project management operations at Wellstar Health System in Marietta, Ga., and chair of the Chapter’s programs and education committee. “We also hope the program will encourage them to utilize more of their HFMA member benefits.”
The how
The webinars are designed to provide participants with the opportunity to gain insight into emerging trends, network with peers and enhance their abilities to navigate the complex landscape of healthcare finance. Each webinar is 60 minutes long and takes place over the lunch hour. There have been four so far, and topics included certification, Medicare challenges, public speaking and exploring the power of being resilient and having a growth mindset. Future webinars will feature a disability-focused DEI discussion and tips for new leaders.
The response
About 200 members have participated in the webinars to date, and based on the response, what began as a four-part series will now be ongoing. Seymour said one of the key contributors to the successful launch was LaTrenda Dumas, a member of the Chapter’s education committee, who pushed for a series specifically for new members.
“You’ve got to find someone who is passionate about the intention of the program,” said Seymour, who added that the support of the Georgia Chapter Board and team members Jasmyn Patmon, Jose Ajanel and Courtney Fontaine was also essential.
Seymour had the following suggestions for other Chapters interested in launching a similar program:
- Make sure speakers understand the intent and are a good fit for the audience.
- Don’t get discouraged if registration is low.
- Schedule sessions around the same time each month.
“Every session may not be a home run,” Seymour said. “Instead, look at it as an opportunity to adjust your subject to something that matters to your membership.”
