About the "Author"
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Charles J. Lathram, III, FACMPE, CCP
Charles "Charlie" Lathram, III, is a healthcare management and operations executive with over 30 years of proven experience. He currently serves as the Vice President of Physician Services at Lake Charles Memorial Health System, an independent, community-focused, integrated delivery health system with three hospitals and many outpatient locations.
In this role, Lathram oversees a large multi-specialty medical group of over 200 providers, including primary care, surgical specialties, behavioral health, and inpatient medicine. Previously, he served as the Chief Executive Officer at Galen Medical Group, leading a diverse team of over 200 providers and 800 employees across 37 locations in Tennessee and Georgia.
Lathram holds the prestigious credentials of Certified Medical Practice Executive (CMPE) and Fellow of the American College of Medical Practice Executives (FACMPE), demonstrating his professional excellence and deep commitment to healthcare management and operations.
Known as a dynamic advocate and relationship builder, Lathram has a track record of fostering positive connections with physicians, nurses, administrative staff, and community leaders. He assisted in creating the Hamilton County Community COVID Testing Subgroup and was an active advocate for Galen with the local community and businesses.
Lathram's leadership and contributions have been widely recognized. He was awarded the 2021 Rise Above Award from the Medical Group Management Association, the Innovation in Healthcare Award from the Times Free Press, and the 2022 Thomas H. Stearns Medical Executive of the Year award from the Tennessee Medical Group Management Association. He has also served in various leadership roles, including President of the Tennessee Medical Group Management Association and the Medical Group Management Association of the State of Alabama.
Furthermore, Lathram is a proponent of physician-led practice and hosts a monthly statewide roundtable, "Independence Day," for independent groups throughout the Southeast. He is also the author of the book "Charting the Course, Navigating the Seas of Leadership", hosts a resource site for medical practices, www.independentdoc.org and is a Certified Compliance Professional.
With his expertise in strategic planning, design, and implementation, as well as his passion for innovation and technological advancements, Lathram continues to drive growth and excellence in the healthcare industry.