Episode Details

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams talks with Carol Ittig, MBA, FACMPE, Practice Administrator at Children’s Orthopedics and Scoliosis Surgery Associates in St. Petersburg, Florida. Carol shares her journey from healthcare administration student to influential leader, and how adopting a go-giver philosophy has shaped her approach to leadership, mentorship, and innovation.

Key Takeaways 

• [03:35] Carol’s Path to Healthcare Leadership
  Carol’s career pivot and how early experiences in patient care sparked her passion for health care leadership. 
• [07:35] Why Networking is Non-Negotiable
  How leveraging MGMA and other professional networks enabled Carol to launch new initiatives like research programs and a foundation. 
• [07:49] The Power of Mentorship
  Lessons from her mentor Debbie Mitchell — setting boundaries, embracing authenticity, and saying yes to growth opportunities.
• [10:49] The Go-Giver Philosophy in Action
  Carol explains the five laws from The Go-Giver and how they translate into leadership in medical practices. 
• [18:12] Solving Payer Challenges Through Collaboration
  How Carol’s orthopedic billing listserv uncovered a nationwide claims denial issue — and the steps taken to resolve $50,000 in denied claims.
• [21:07] AI and Prior Authorization: What Leaders Need to Know
  Insights into emerging AI-driven payer edits and practical tips for navigating prior authorization hurdles.
• [27:49] Navigating MGMA Resources Efficiently
  Carol’s “secret sauce” for staying informed about MGMA programs without getting lost in the website. 

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Carol Ittig on LinkedIn
• Orthopedic Executives Association (AOE)
• CHORTHO Cares Foundation
• The Go-Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann
• MGMA Membership 
• MGMA Mentor Program
• If you're interested in joining the MGMA Book Club, reach out to Daniel at dwilliams@mgma.org.

Sponsor:
Capella University helps healthcare professionals earn their MHA on their terms. Their FlexPath MHA program is designed for busy MGMA members who want to advance their leadership skills with a flexible, self‑paced format — often faster and more affordably — without putting their careers on hold. Questions? Visit capella.edu/MHA to learn more.