The Pediatric Management Staff, led by Ginger Osman, Administrator, had a very active 1999. Academic pediatric departments across the country are being challenged on many levels.

Y2K issues pervaded the atmosphere, but like the rest of the world, we experienced little disruption of activities. However, the analysis of all systems enabled the department to upgrade computers and research equipment.

The 1999-2000 match was very successful and was the first in which ERAS (Electronic Residency Application System) was used. This computerized application process for pediatrics was utilized across the country. We were able to adapt it for our needs and facilitate the entire process. UCLA Pediatrics also did well in the match.

The Children's Health Center continues to increase in outpatient visits. This creates a variety of problems as well as rewards. The continuity clinic restructuring provided housestaff with improved educational opportunities. The phasing in of the centralized appointment scheduling system was completed in 1999, and is working well. The amount of information required by payors/insurance companies continues to increase. We have expanded our efforts in obtaining authorizations, co-payments and verifying insurance. With the department's participation in the Primary Care Network (PCN) our staffing and nursing resources have also been diverted from the Westwood campus. The PCN offices have allowed UCLA physicians to see patients in neighborhood offices, which decreases the demand on space and time in Westwood.

Efforts are continuing to educate our divisional administrative staff on a variety of issues. With the full implementation of the appointment center in the clinic, emphasis at the division level has turned to compliance and documentation, as well as changes in managed care. A seminar was held by the Finance and Research office to provide a step-by-step procedure for grant submission. As more faculty members apply for grant support, it is important for staff to understand and facilitate the process.

The Personnel office assumed responsibility for department payroll activities. Plans were made to implement a staff employment exit interview and an online payroll timesheet program.

Despite lower reimbursement rates, the billing office exceeded their collections target for 1999. Claims processing was streamlined, directly impacting collection rates. This is the fourth year in which billing staff have made a concerted effort to increase collections. The department Executive Board has recognized and commended these endeavors.

Although more changes are anticipated for 2000, the Pediatrics Management Staff will continue to pursue the objectives and goals of the University of California.

1999 Management Staff Team Members:

Ginger Osman, Executive Administrator

Cristina Becerra, Children's Health Center Administration

Greg Bryant, Information Systems

Lynette Hand, Research and Finance Administration

Bill Heath, Medical Education

Elizabeth Hiramoto, Personnel

Janet Nishina, Children's Health Center Nursing

Wendy Raimondi, Patient Billing Office