‘Good data yields good decisions': Honoring Dave Gans, 2025 MGMA Lifetime Achievement Award Winner

On this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, host Daniel Williams sits down with David N. Gans, MGMA’s 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. Dave reflects on his decades-long career with MGMA, his role in shaping the organization’s history, and his pioneering work in benchmarking and data-driven decision-making for medical practices. He also shares practical advice for medical practice leaders facing today’s most pressing challenges — from workforce shortages to financial pressures — and reminds us that at the heart of every innovation is the patient.

Whether you’re navigating the complexities of group practice management or looking for inspiration from one of the field’s most trusted voices, this episode offers invaluable insights and problem-solving perspectives.

Key Takeaways

• [03:26] Dave reflects on receiving the MGMA Lifetime Achievement Award and the legacy of past recipients.
• [06:00] A deep dive into MGMA’s origins in 1926 and Dave’s role as an organizational historian.
• [06:39] How a student internship in 1979 launched Dave’s lifelong career with MGMA and a parallel career in the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps.
• [14:10] The evolution of MGMA’s benchmarking and survey data—why “good data yields good decisions” remains a guiding principle.
• [16:44] Real-world example of how one practice in Salt Lake City used MGMA data to transform performance and outcomes.
• [19:45] Dave’s philosophy on mentorship, collaboration, and why investing time in others always pays dividends.
• [23:24] Advice for today’s practice leaders: embracing innovation, applying AI responsibly, and never losing sight of the core mission—delivering high-quality patient care.
• [27:01] A glimpse into Dave’s adventurous side, including his 27th European cycling trip and reflections on lifelong learning.

Resources & Links

• Learn more about the 2025 MGMA Leaders Conference in Orlando and register to attend Dave Gans’ recognition ceremony.
• Explore MGMA’s data and benchmarking resources.
• Read Dave Gans’ contributions: MGMA articles, podcasts, and books.

Additional Resources:

• MGMA Playbooks
• MGMA Events
• MGMA Consulting
• MGMA Stat
• MGMA Podcasts

Email us at dwilliams@mgma.com if you would like to appear on an episode. If you have a question about your practice that you would like us to answer, send an email to advisor@mgma.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our network wherever you get your podcasts.