How did you become a manager of internal audit?

After about 6 years in various audit positions, I came to work at Lancaster General (LG). I worked as a staff auditor at LG for about a year and a half. At that time the head of the department took a Director position over the Patient Financial Services area. The CFO whom Internal Audit reported to at the time, approached me about running the department. I wasn't sure if I was ready but after discussing with my predessor and the CFO they assured me of their support and they felt I was ready.

How long have you worked in healthcare?

I have worked in healthcare for approximately nine years.

What is one aspect of your position that you enjoy?

There are many aspects of this position that I enjoy. I would have to say the one I enjoy most is when I can help someone either resolve an issue or find a more efficient way to do their job.

Everyone knows working in healthcare - let alone in auditing - is demanding and at times, can be stressful. What has kept you loyal to a career in this field?

Auditing is stressful because it does seem like auditors usually are the people who deliver the "bad news." I think I have been lucky in my career in auditing because many of the people I have worked and continue to work with see an auditor as someone who is there to help them turn the "bad news" into workable solutions. Many times throughout the year management will call on Internal Audit requesting us to review a process or a functional area where they have a concern. Working together as a team with all levels in the organization is rewarding.

What is the biggest auditing challenge you face, and how do you overcome it?

Our biggest challenge in Internal Audit is overcoming the stigma that surrounds the word "auditor." When a department finds out that they will be audited, some employees become defensive. By working closely with the auditee, listening to their concerns and suggestions, you can overcome the defensiveness and move forward with an audit that will add value.

What advice would you give to others in field to help them be successful in their position?

I think the best advice I could give anyone that is pursuing a career in audit is to communicate with your auditee. Listen to their concerns and comments as they really are the experts in their field. Make sure they are informed throughout the audit. During the exit conference of an audit there should be no surprise "findings." The auditee should already be aware of what you found prior to that meeting.