Adda Garcia McDonald
Summary
Professional with demonstrated expertise in regulatory compliance, risk management, and policy enforcement. Skilled in identifying and mitigating potential risks, ensuring adherence to legal and regulatory standards. Strong focus on collaborative team efforts and achieving measurable results. Known for reliability, adaptability, and strategic problem-solving. Proficient in compliance audits, regulatory reporting, and developing effective compliance programs.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Health Compliance Officer and Industrial Hygienist-Advanced
NM OSHA
03.2022 - Current
- Company Overview: Occupational Health and Safety Bureau, NM Environment Department
- Enforce the New Mexico Occupational Health and Safety Act to control, eliminate, and prevent disease or injury caused by chemical, physical, and biological agents, including response to the COVID-19 pandemic, by performing routine, referral, and complaint investigations and inspections within various New Mexico industries to enforce state and federal regulations.
- Conduct personal breathing and hearing zone sampling using health sampling equipment on employees exposed to various air contaminants and industrial noise.
- Collect and submit samples for laboratory and field analysis.
- Review applications, preliminary and final plans, and specifications for proposed plants, facilities, and equipment to determine completeness, technical feasibility, engineering accuracy, and compliance.
- Conduct supplementary investigations, research, and surveys as needed.
- Engage in or monitor research on various industries.
- Develop and assist in implementing standard operating procedures, templates, and checklists to improve processes in the bureau.
- Assist management in planning objectives, budgets, records, and reports.
- Prepare complex scientific reports and advanced analysis of data.
- Train and mentor new employees.
- Prepare and implement training classes and materials for the bureau.
- Coordinate bill analyses and training for the NM Environment Department during legislative sessions.
- Member of the NM Environment Department Safety Committee
- Occupational Health and Safety Bureau, NM Environment Department
- Provided expert guidance on complex regulatory matters, enabling informed decision-making within the organization.
- Demonstrated adaptability in response to evolving industry standards, maintaining best practices in a dynamic regulatory environment.
- Evaluated new regulations for potential impact on business operations, taking proactive measures to ensure readiness for implementation.
- Advised senior management on strategic planning initiatives, incorporating compliance considerations into decision-making processes.
- Boosted staff compliance awareness with creation and delivery of engaging training sessions.
- Maintained composure in stressful situations, confrontations, interviews and records searches.
- Took notes on field examinations and specific case details, updated databases and produced reports outlining results of investigations.
Quality Improvement and Performance Management Coordinator
NM Department of Health
12.2019 - 03.2022
- Company Overview: Office of Policy and Accountability
- Improved the NM Department of Health’s Programmatic and Administrative Quality by effectively leading and chairing the NMDOH Quality Improvement Council.
- Provided training and education to explain the fundamental concepts and principles of quality improvement vs. quality assurance processes, application of quality improvement tools, and PDSA (Plan, Do, Study, Act) cycles.
- Analyzed and utilized data for improvement needs, using system results to improve the program and organizational performance.
- Contributed to continuous improvement through mentoring, monitoring progress, and utilizing quality improvement tools.
- Implemented strategies for continuous quality improvement and design improvement activities to address agency-wide priority gaps.
- Provided support to programmatic and administrative teams to conduct and manage the quality improvement process.
- Utilized various methods to improve individual and program performance with quality improvement and performance management.
- Contributed to strategic planning sessions to meet and improve NMDOH’s central Strategic Plan, State Assessment and State Improvement Plan, and NMDOH’s mission, vision, and values.
- Participated in bill analyses and training during legislative sessions.
- Facilitated meetings and communication among multiple stakeholders throughout the State of NM.
- Global administrator for the NMDOH PolicyTech system.
- Managed PolicyTech operations throughout NMDOH.
- Supervised DCA (Document Control Administrator) roles and responsibilities.
- Examined the feasibility and implications of policies, programs, and services.
- Evaluated nursing homes, hospitals, and behavioral health policies and procedures for compliance with accrediting, regulatory, and licensing standards.
- Planned and implemented processes and strategies to assure compliance with TJC (The Joint Commission) CMS, Medicaid, OSHA, and other regulatory agencies licensing standards at NMDOH facilities.
- Planned, directed, and evaluated nursing homes, hospitals, and behavioral health systems for compliance with licensing, TJC, CMS, Medicaid, and OSHA standards at NMDOH state facilities.
- Used information technology to assess, collect, and disseminate data and information.
- Assisted medical staff and clinical divisions to provide high-quality patient care by following CMS, TJC, and OSHA standards, including hazardous and non-hazardous waste regulations.
- Contributed knowledge and experience to NMDOH’s COVID-19 Overflow Hospital’s Operations Team as an active member by ensuring their readiness to compliance, accreditation, licensing, and policies and procedures while collaborating with healthcare leaders in the City of Albuquerque.
- Office of Policy and Accountability
- Optimized workflows to drive increased efficiency across all departments by analyzing processes and recommending improvements.
- Drove continuous improvement initiatives across all facets of the organization to foster a culture of excellence in service delivery and performance standards.
- Managed key stakeholder relationships to ensure positive outcomes for projects while maintaining open lines of communication between all parties involved in the decision-making process.
- Developed the skills of my team members through ongoing training, mentorship, and coaching sessions which resulted in increased capabilities and overall effectiveness.
- Managed multiple high-priority projects simultaneously with a keen eye for detail ensuring deadlines were met without compromising quality standards.
Quality, Regulatory, and Accreditation Manager
Lovelace Medical Center
01.2019 - 09.2019
- Directed accreditation, licensing, and legal requirement compliance for the facility while being the primary liaison to regulatory agencies and accreditation bodies.
- Monitored and analyzed various quality improvement activities and practices to ensure ongoing compliance, patient safety, and minimize risk.
- Supervised RN Data Abstractors-CMS Core Measures and various data registries, including GWTG Stroke and Heart Failure, ACC NCDR registries, MBSAQIP, and VQI.
- Led and participated in CMS Core Measure and registry data analysis and improvement.
- Supervised and monitored quality data scorecards and data abstraction improvement.
- Planned and facilitated continuous accreditation and regulatory meetings.
- Planned, directed, and managed DNV, CMS, OSHA, EPA, and other on-site survey preparation activities.
- Collaborated with hospital leadership and outside contractors, successfully improving the hospital’s hazardous and non-hazardous waste process and program.
- Prepared regulatory clarifications and action plans.
- Oversaw, prepared, and submitted any written progress reports in collaboration with appropriate individuals, departments, and committees relative to CMS, OSHA, EPA, and DNV regulatory and accreditation requirements.
- Developed, implemented, and managed a continual survey readiness work plan for the hospital.
- Organized and led a continual survey readiness core team.
- Gathered and prepared an analysis of data from internal and external sources to set a precedent for ongoing PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act) activities.
- Demonstrated and applied Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) principles and tools.
- Administered document control of policies and procedures for the facility.
- Worked on various operations projects with health system leadership to improve patient quality of care and outcomes.
- Coordinated with external accrediting bodies, fostering positive relationships and ensuring timely submission of required reports.
- Led cross-functional teams in addressing accreditation findings, developing action plans to address identified gaps or weaknesses.
- Served as a subject matter expert on both regional and specialized accreditations within the organization.
- Fostered a culture of continuous improvement within the organization by highlighting the importance of accreditation standards in maintaining institutional excellence.
- Provided expert guidance on accreditation requirements, enabling departments to maintain high levels of quality and performance.
- Conducted thorough audits of departmental practices, identifying areas for improvement and ensuring compliance with accreditation standards.
- Prepared detailed progress reports for senior leadership outlining institutional achievements towards meeting established goals tied to specific accreditations.
- Managed collecting, analyzing, and reporting data related to accreditation standards, driving evidence-based decision-making.
- Developed training materials and led workshops for staff, increasing understanding of accreditation processes and standards.
- Coordinated external evaluators' scheduling and logistics of site visits, ensuring a smooth review process for all parties involved.
- Reviewed accreditation standards and evaluated compliance, identified challenges, and proposed solutions.
- Developed compliance training initiatives and materials, educating staff on regulations.
Regulatory Analyst and Quality Consultant
University of New Mexico Hospital
07.2014 - 01.2019
- Led the hospital and clinic regulatory and accreditation surveys to include the management of regulatory team members and other hospital leaders.
- Facilitated communication between regulatory surveyors, hospital administration, and staff.
- Coordinated quality and regulatory meetings with hospital leadership and staff.
- Educated hospital leaders and staff on patient safety, regulatory, and accreditation standards.
- Using the LEAN methodology effectively managed and improved the efficiency of the UNM Hospital Policy, Procedure, and Guideline process.
- Coordinated and led the organization’s policy, procedure, and guideline process.
- Minimized risk levels by assisting with the prioritization, development, interpretation, and deployment of policies, procedures, and guidelines.
- Led regulatory rounding and internal survey processes across UNM Hospital and UNM Clinics to ensure compliance with CMS, Medicaid, NCQA, AHRQ, TJC, OSHA, EPA, and FDA regulations to establish continual regulatory readiness.
- Collaborated with Environmental Sciences and Infection Control and Prevention to improve the hospital’s hazardous and non-hazardous waste program and process.
- Supported the development of company policies and procedures to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.
- Managed relationships with regulators, acting as a liaison between the company and various governing bodies.
- Promoted a culture of transparency and collaboration by sharing regulatory knowledge with colleagues and actively participating in company-wide initiatives.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to address any identified gaps in compliance or areas requiring improvement.
- Improved regulatory compliance by conducting thorough research and analysis of federal, state, and local regulations.
- Prepared timely and accurate reports for submission to regulatory agencies, ensuring proper documentation and recordkeeping.
- Enhanced operational efficiency by streamlining processes related to data collection, review, and reporting for regulatory purposes.
- Conducted regular audits of internal processes to verify compliance with established policies and regulations.
- Developed training programs for employees on relevant regulatory topics, fostering a culture of compliance within the organization.
- Led successful inspections by regulatory authorities through diligent preparation and effective communication of company practices.
- Assisted in risk assessment and mitigation efforts, identifying potential areas of noncompliance.
- Influenced positive change within the organization by identifying process improvements aimed at increasing efficiency without compromising compliance standards.
- Prepared and submitted regulatory file applications and supporting documentation.
- Wrote or updated standard operating procedures, work instructions or policies.
- Streamlined the auditing process for better efficiency and thoroughness in identifying areas for improvement.
Quality Clinical Manager
Presbyterian Healthcare Services
01.2013 - 06.2014
- Organized and led the regulatory core team.
- Developed and implemented the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Core Measure education for hospital staff and physicians.
- Participated in CMS Core Measure analysis and improvement.
- Organized and managed community health events.
- Coordinated and facilitated multiple quality projects involving various medical disciplines.
- Served as subject matter expert for clinical measures, benchmarking, best practices, and TJC, CMS, and OSHA certification and regulation requirements.
- Performed concurrent and retrospective data review, core measure, stroke registry data abstraction, analysis, identification of critical issues, and opportunities for improvement.
- Developed and implemented public health events for stroke education and prevention.
- Developed, implemented, and led the stroke program to achieve The Joint Commission (TJC) Primary Stroke Center Certification.
- Collaborated in developing and revising policies, procedures, guidelines, and protocols for final approval.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory guidelines and accreditation standards through consistent monitoring and implementing corrective actions when needed.
- Enhanced staff performance through regular training, mentoring, and professional development opportunities.
- Fostered a positive work culture by recognizing employee achievements and proactively addressing concerns.
- Delegated tasks to staff members, monitored completion of all duties, and provided support to enhance performance.
- Worked with nurse manager to develop nursing staff through education, evaluation, performance management, and competency improvement.
- Communicated with patients, asked appropriate questions, and employed active listening to determine the best care.
- Identified opportunities to improve clinical practices, devised strategies, and implemented plans to increase patient care standards and enhance operational procedures.
- Managed [Number] employees with various personalities and from different cultures for a large [Number]-physician practice.
- Implemented new policies and educated staff on changes.
- Implemented quality improvement initiatives that led to measurable improvements in patient satisfaction scores.
- Facilitated community health initiatives to promote wellness and disease prevention.
- Fostered a culture of continuous improvement, leading to more effective patient care strategies.
Registered Respiratory Therapist-Supervisor
Presbyterian Healthcare Services
02.2003 - 01.2013
- Supervisor Responsibilities: Managed daily department operations to maintain appropriate staffing levels and assignments. Created work schedules and patient assignments for 10-15 respiratory therapists for a 12-hour shift, maintained hospital productivity standards for all therapist schedules, supervised all respiratory therapists during a 12-hour shift, various hospital units, and the pulmonary diagnostic lab, and created shift projections for the oncoming shift. Trained and mentored employees; initiated counseling and discipline procedures when necessary for behavior, attendance, and performance issues, with patient safety as the priority, and ensured compliance of all respiratory therapists with Joint Commission, CMS, HIPAA, OSHA, and EPA standards.
- Chaired the Pulmonary Services Governance Council. Responsibilities: Managed current and developing projects for Pulmonary Services, which included the successful implementation of protocols, creating education modules for staff and clinicians, holding education in-services for clinicians and staff, approving new hospital equipment, supervising and assigning tasks to council members while maintaining time-management and productivity per hospital standards.
- Performed modes of respiratory treatments and therapies for patients.
- Performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation as needed throughout the hospital.
- Assisted physicians with various cardiopulmonary procedures.
- Operated, maintained, and monitored ventilators.
- Initiated various patient protocols, including ventilator management of post-operative cardiac patients.
- Performed advanced airway care, tracheotomy changes, intubation assistance, and extubation.
- Performed hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
- Successfully served as preceptor and mentor for new employees, including nurses.
- Assisted with conscious sedation during bronchoscopy.
- Educated medical professionals regarding cardiopulmonary topics and procedures.
- Educated patients on various disease processes using motivational interviewing.
- Provided and led educational workshops and classes for various healthcare professionals.
- Assisted pulmonary intensivists with mechanical ventilation seminars.
- Ventilator super-user and trainer.
- Adjusted ventilator settings based on continuous assessment of blood gas analysis results, improving overall ventilation efficacy for critically ill patients.
- Managed and operated mechanical ventilators to deliver airway management.
- Mentored new employees, guiding best practices in respiratory therapy treatments and techniques.
- Provided emergency response during cardiac arrests or other life-threatening situations, utilizing advanced life support measures when required.
- Contributed to successful weaning from mechanical ventilation by optimizing oxygenation strategies tailored to each individual's needs.
- Worked with patients to administer aerosolized respiratory medications and chest percussion treatments to improve breathing.
- Documented therapies and diagnostic tests in patient electronic records for use by the care team.
- Evaluated patient response to respiratory treatments and revised care plans accordingly.
- Aided physicians with various procedures such as bronchoscopies, ventilator management, and intubations.
- Verified proper set-up of ventilators for both adult and pediatric patients.
- Consistently responded within time limits to requests for respiratory assessments.
- Provided antibiotics, bronchodilators, and anti-inflammatory medications with hand-held nebulizers, metered-dose inhalers, and positive pressure equipment.
- Administered various medications through aerosolized treatments, ensuring proper dosages were delivered accurately to patients.
- Coordinated with physicians and other care team members on care and treatments.
- Maintained proper oxygen titration levels of patients receiving ventilator support.
- Assessed, diagnosed, and treated breathing issues.
- Improved patient outcomes by providing comprehensive respiratory care plans and interventions.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities, staying current with best practices and advancements in respiratory therapy.
- Monitored patient's physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, and blood chemistry changes.
- Developed innovative approaches for noninvasive ventilation use in eligible patients, reducing intubation rates.
- Maintained accurate records of all procedures performed, contributing to efficient billing processes and compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Enhanced patient safety with thorough ventilator management and monitoring.
- Educated patients and families on respiratory health, disease prevention, and lifestyle modifications.
- Managed complex cases involving multiple comorbidities while maintaining high-quality patient care.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams for optimal patient care and treatment planning.
- Implemented evidence-based practices to improve overall patient satisfaction with respiratory care services.
- Served as a liaison between patients, families, physicians, and nursing staff to ensure clear communication of treatment plans.
- Conducted diagnostic tests, such as pulmonary function testing, to identify underlying respiratory issues or complications.
- Assisted in the development of clinical protocols for the management of various respiratory conditions.
- Streamlined department operations to increase efficiency in therapy delivery and documentation.
- Collaborated with physicians and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement patient treatment plans.
- Cooperated and communicated with physicians to deliver patient satisfaction and meet compliance with set standards.
- Completed continued education units annually to stay current with respiratory therapy advancements and maintain compliance with administrative regulations.
- Monitored patient reactions to drugs and carefully documented findings.
- Maintained accurate patient records to track patients' medical history and treatment plans.
- Maintained patient charts and information, strictly adhering to HIPAA laws and privacy guidelines.
Director of Asthma Education
Asthma Allies
09.2006 - 05.2011
- Participated in developing and implementing the asthma camp and asthma education for campers, counselors, medical staff, and parents.
- Developed and successfully implemented a home visit asthma education program, which was awarded a grant from the National Institutes of Health National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute for this program.
- As Lead Asthma Educator, participated in the development, implementation, and evaluation of the operations of asthma education programs, staff, and volunteer training.
- Supervised and mentored staff-certified asthma educators, volunteers, and certified asthma educators in training.
- Educated patients and families on asthma, nutrition, diabetes, exercise, smoking cessation, indoor air quality using the EPA's toolkit, and overall wellness using motivational interviewing.
- Translator and Interpreter (Spanish) of all Asthma Allies material, including but not limited to marketing materials, instruction manuals, and education material, assuring compliance with current national health literacy and cultural competency standards.
- Provided workshops and classes on asthma and healthy lifestyles (wellness, nutrition, diabetes, exercise) to the community and healthcare professionals.
- Provided asthma screenings and education at various events, including health fairs throughout the community and the State of New Mexico.
- Attended multidisciplinary meetings for the development of asthma clinics and asthma disease management plans in conjunction with community organizations and the NM Department of Health across the State of New Mexico.
- As a medical chart review committee member, verified staff and organization compliance with HIPAA, Joint Commission, and CMS.
- Researched and stayed current with national health programs and national guidelines.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
- Strengthened internal controls by reviewing existing policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Improved project efficiency with strategic planning, resource allocation, and time management practices.
- Optimized staff performance by designing comprehensive training programs tailored to individual needs.
- Secured key partnerships contributing to the company's growth strategy and market reach.
- Improved team morale and productivity by implementing a comprehensive professional development program.
Clinical Faculty
Central New Mexico Community College
10.2005 - 05.2010
- Demonstrated working knowledge of current developments in respiratory care and the medical field.
- Related and explained the complex subject matter to respiratory therapy students.
- Instructed a diverse student population.
- Mentored and supervised respiratory therapy students in the classroom and clinical setting.
- Developed and implemented education plans, assignments, and exams for students.
- Initiated student discipline protocols, when necessary, with assistance from the program director when appropriate.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
- Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
Skills
- Compliance assessment and evaluation
- Document analysis
- Process auditing
- Internal audit management
- Policy evaluation
- Ethics management
- Risk mitigation strategies
- Regulatory compliance enforcement
- Effective project oversight
- Trend analysis and reporting
- Legal research
- Industry awareness
- Analytical investigation skills
- Experience with accreditation standards
Certification
- Specialist in Safety and Health in OSHA General Industry, University of Texas at Arlington.
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt through Presbyterian Healthcare Services, Albuquerque, NM.
Public Health and Environmental Hero, 2023
Assisted with the 2023 New Mexico State Legislative Session by reviewing incoming bills and policy proposals. Evaluated their potential impacts on state policy, the budget, and the well-being of New Mexicans, with a focus on identifying opportunities for meaningful improvement.
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
French
Limited Working
Timeline
Health Compliance Officer and Industrial Hygienist-Advanced
NM OSHA
03.2022 - Current
Quality Improvement and Performance Management Coordinator
NM Department of Health
12.2019 - 03.2022
Quality, Regulatory, and Accreditation Manager
Lovelace Medical Center
01.2019 - 09.2019
Regulatory Analyst and Quality Consultant
University of New Mexico Hospital
07.2014 - 01.2019
Quality Clinical Manager
Presbyterian Healthcare Services
01.2013 - 06.2014
Director of Asthma Education
Asthma Allies
09.2006 - 05.2011
Clinical Faculty
Central New Mexico Community College
10.2005 - 05.2010
Registered Respiratory Therapist-Supervisor
Presbyterian Healthcare Services
02.2003 - 01.2013
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