From Single Mom to Surgical Practice Leader: How Communication, Compassion, and Unity Drive Results
How I Wrote Hiring and Managing Medical Office Assistants for Surgeons — A Journey of Transformation
As a woman in leadership, I’ve always believed in combining heart-centered leadership with actionable, research-based strategies to achieve great results. But it wasn’t until I found myself in the unique position of being a surgeon’s wife that I realized just how important effective leadership and communication are in healthcare settings—and why I needed to step in and help.
You see, I didn’t always picture myself in this world. My early life was shaped by my time as a single mom, raising two sons, managing finances, and balancing career ambitions—all while working hard to build a better future. It wasn’t easy, but it taught me perseverance, resilience, and the power of a positive mindset. When I look back on those years, I realize they laid the foundation for everything I’m doing today.
Fast forward to my life now, married to Dr. Tim Riegel, a Burn and Reconstructive Surgeon, and suddenly, I found myself witnessing firsthand the challenges that come with leading a medical practice. I watched as my husband struggled with the inefficiencies of a dysfunctional healthcare system, where poor communication and complex processes added stress to his already demanding work.
I knew I had to do something about it. The insights I’d gained from my own leadership journey—both personal and professional—could make a real difference. So, I wrote Hiring and Managing Medical Office Assistants for Surgeons, a book that combines the heart-centered leadership I’ve always championed with practical strategies to help medical teams succeed.
Why This Book Matters for Surgeons and Medical Office Assistants
If you’re a surgeon, you already know that the dynamics of your practice can make or break your success. Your Medical Office Assistants (MOAs) are the backbone of your practice—but without proper systems, training, and leadership, they’re at risk of burnout, miscommunication, and inefficiency.
That’s where my book comes in. I’ve spent over 20 years in leadership roles across multiple industries, and I’ve seen time and time again how clear communication and effective systems lead to stronger teams and better results. It’s not about just getting by—it’s about creating a thriving, productive environment that benefits both your staff and your patients.
The truth is, Medical Office Assistants often don’t get the recognition they deserve. Yet, they play a pivotal role in reducing burnout, improving patient care, and creating smoother workflows. In my book, I offer clear, actionable steps for hiring, training, and managing MOAs, with a focus on building trust, reducing stress, and fostering an environment where communication is key.
Here’s how this book can help:
Build a Strong Communication Framework
Communication is the foundation of any successful team. Learn how to create a culture of open dialogue, where feedback is welcomed, and conflicts are resolved early, so your team can focus on what truly matters: providing excellent care.Invest in Training for Your MOAs
MOAs are often the first point of contact for patients, and they directly impact the patient experience. My book outlines strategies to empower MOAs with the tools they need to manage the office confidently, improve patient interactions, and support the surgeon’s work.Drive for Results, Lead with Integrity
As a leader, you set the tone for the office environment. Integrity, trust, and respect are at the heart of my approach, and I offer practical steps for creating an office that runs smoothly, with clear goals and expectations that drive performance.Measure Success
Tracking success is crucial. In the book, I discuss how to measure improvements in staff retention, patient satisfaction, and overall office efficiency—all key indicators that show the positive impact of strong leadership and clear processes.
How My Personal Journey Shaped This Book
I know what it’s like to face challenges head-on—whether it’s managing finances as a single mom or watching a loved one struggle within a system that doesn’t always support them. My background has given me the unique perspective to offer practical advice that’s grounded in real-life experience. I’ve learned that when we take the time to invest in people, whether they’re employees or family members, we can transform not just practices, but lives.
I never imagined I’d go from being a single mom working through personal struggles to becoming a leadership consultant and author. But each part of my journey has taught me that growth is possible at any stage of life. My past has shaped who I am today, and it’s that same resilience and determination that I bring to the healthcare world with my book.
Take the Next Step
If you’re ready to transform your practice, improve communication, and empower your team, Hiring and Managing Medical Office Assistants for Surgeons is a tool that can guide you toward lasting change. Whether you're a surgeon, practice manager, or Medical Office Assistant, this book offers the practical strategies and insights you need to build a cohesive, high-performing team that thrives together.
You can find the book on Amazon or directly through my website at www.nancyriegel.com/surgicalpractice.
Let’s connect! If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please feel free to reach out to me through my contact form. I’d love to hear from you and help you create a better future for your practice.
If this resonated with you, I’d love to know — feel free to send me a message or share this with someone who needs it today.