The Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) announced on Aug. 22 that healthcare attorney Jerard J. Jensen of Madison, Wis. will serve as the national association’s interim chief executive officer. Susan L. Turney, MD, MS, FACP, FACMPE, current president and CEO of MGMA announced her resignation, effective September 1. Turney has accepted a position as CEO of the newly-formed Marshfield Clinic Health System, in Marshfield, Wis. 

Jensen will serve as MGMA interim chief executive officer, part-time, while the association continues to recruit for Turney’s replacement. Jensen has served as MGMA counsel since 2012, and will manage the transition of Turney’s departure and the arrival of a new MGMA president and CEO. Jensen has been a healthcare attorney for 27 years and is knowledgeable about the complex regulatory and legislative environment for physician practices. Since the mid-1980’s, he has worked with a variety of hospitals, clinics, physician groups, continuum of care providers, health insurers, health industry associations and other health care players in connection with strategic, operational, transactional and financial matters.

“Jensen is an exceptional leader, and will help to ensure a thoughtful and organized transition of leadership at MGMA,” said Stephen A. Dickens, JD, FACMPE, MGMA board chair. “The MGMA Board of Directors is confident that his insight will be instrumental in further elevating the tools, resources, services, and data solutions we provide, as we remain dedicated to assisting our members in creating strong, dynamic, successful practices that meet the needs of today’s patients.”

Jensen will serve as liaison between the MGMA Board of Directors and staff members. MGMA leaders will also assume increased responsibility until the new CEO is selected. 

“I am pleased that Jensen will be a part of this process,” said Turney. “He is familiar with and understands the dynamics of the Association. I am certain that he will collaborate effectively with the leadership team and MGMA staff in managing operations, and will work closely with the MGMA Board of Directors to fulfill the strategic goals of the organization.”