As the Orange County Medical Association's newest staff member, I was fortunate to participate in a Board of Directors retreat in September. The timing could not have been better, as the retreat was over the weekend just prior to my first day on the job as director of operations/membership development.

The retreat started with a presentation by Michele Revelle, OCMA executive director and CEO, on the association's current staffing levels, membership figures and benefit programs. Then, Dr. Jan Frates, a professor of healthcare administration at Cal State Long Beach, moderated a strategic planning session. The board reflected on the mission, vision and values of the organization. Following this session, leaders broke into small groups, engaged in thoughtful discussion and returned with a list of ideas for action in three areas: advocacy, membership and education.

Shortly after the retreat, Dr. Frates and OCMA staff consolidated the board's ideas into strategic goals and objectives. Board members are now in the process of ranking the goals and objectives. Implementation and evaluation of outcomes will be the final steps.

In one well-organized weekend, I was able to learn about the OCMA's most critical issues as well as potential strategies that will solidify its efforts in the future. And to further my education, I met during my first week with colleagues at the Los Angeles County Medical Association, who were generous with their time as they shared insights on the challenges and opportunities in member recruitment and retention.

All in all, it was a great way to start my position and I look forward to bringing about positive change. As director of operations/membership development, my initial focus will be on three major objectives:

1. To increase membership;
2. To develop and maintain community-based partnerships and outreach programs; and
3. To institute operational efficiency, excellent customer service and a high level of staff morale.

All of these goals are to occur within an environment that fosters creativity and productivity--a tall order indeed, but certainly achievable with dedication and hard work.

I welcome the challenge and will rely on collaboration among staff, leaders and members along with support from medical association colleagues at the county and state level.

Robert McCann is the director of operations/membership development at the Orange County Medical Association. He can be reached at 714/978-1160 or rmccann@ocma.org.