About the "Author"
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Charles J. Lathram, III, FACMPE, CCP
Charles J. Lathram, III is a distinguished healthcare executive with over 30 years of
transformative leadership in healthcare delivery optimization and practice management. As a
seasoned C-Suite executive, Charles has a proven track record in physician enterprise development, value-based care implementation, and strategic growth initiatives. He is recognized for orchestrating multi-million dollar partnerships, optimizing payor relationships, and pioneering innovative care delivery models.
Charles leads a premier healthcare consulting and management services organization, providing comprehensive operational oversight and strategic leadership for medical practices across the Southeast region. His expertise includes revenue cycle management, value-based care strategies, and practice transformation initiatives. He has successfully guided medical practices in maintaining independence through strategic planning, operational optimization, and innovative care delivery models.
As vice President of Physician Services at Lake Charles Memorial Health System, Charles oversaw a multi-specialty group of over 250 providers. He has developed and implemented strategies to enhance patient experience, improve patient outcomes, and generate cost savings through population health management. His collaborative leadership style fosters internal and external relationships, enhancing organizational performance and strategic partnerships.
Charles has also served as the CEO of Galen Medical Group, where he led the organization to
significant growth, expanding specialties and increasing patient visits. His leadership earned the
group recognition as the first 5-star practice in Tennessee by Blue Cross Blue Shield. He has a
strong background in managing operations of medical practices, developing strategic initiatives,
and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulatory standards.
Charles holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and is currently pursuing a Master's in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Adler University. He is a Fellow of the American College of Medical Practice Executives and a Certified Compliance Professional.
His contributions to the healthcare industry have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Champions of Healthcare Innovation Award and the Thomas H. Stearns Medical Executive of the Year.
Charles is also an accomplished speaker and author, sharing his insights on healthcare innovation, practice management, and leadership. He has delivered presentations at prestigious conferences such as the TN MGMA Conferences and the Quality Colloquium at Harvard University. Additionally, he has held leadership positions, including President of the Board of Directors for the Medical Group Management Association in Alabama, Tennessee and Chattanooga, and Board of Advisors for Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga.
Charles has authored over 70 articles on healthcare, leadership, clinical operations, and business.
and is the host of www.independentdoc.org. His publications include "Charting
the Course, Navigating the Seas of Leadership" and "My Walk With Him."