Laura Leavitt-Yamashita
Salt Lake City,UT
Summary
Dynamic Dual-Certified Credentialing and Compliance Executive with over 15 years of experience in driving operational excellence and ensuring regulatory compliance within multi-hospital systems and regional healthcare markets. Expertise in optimizing productivity, efficiency, and service quality through strategic leadership and innovative process enhancements. Recognized for cultivating high-performing, cross-functional teams and serving as a trusted liaison for AI and automation initiatives. A dependable and ethical leader with a proven track record of managing large teams of over 50 professionals while executing complex enterprise initiatives that deliver precision and measurable outcomes.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Credentialing Consultant
UNIVERSITY OF UTAH HEALTH PLANS
Salt Lake City, Utah
01.2023 - Current
- Managed a diverse portfolio of provider network functions, ensuring effective support for both operational and strategic needs within a health plan organization.
- Oversaw accreditation readiness initiatives, implementing strategies to meet NCQA, HSAG, CMS, and DNV standards effectively.
- Directed comprehensive operational transformation aimed at deploying an enterprise credentialing platform, achieving a 99% exceedance of production goals while ensuring quality standards.
- Led end-to-end integration of credentialing database systems to modernize operations and enhance alignment with AI-driven solutions.
- Coordinated all aspects of credentialing committee operations, including meeting logistics and follow-up actions, ensuring thoroughness and precision.
- Conducted evaluations and oversight of health plan partners and internal support partners to uphold NCQA standards and enhance overall quality assurance processes.
- Evaluated and interpreted regulatory changes and compliance standards to proactively address emerging risks in Medicaid MCOS and commercial payer operations.
- Engaged with executive leadership to formulate and enforce standards and policies that facilitate NCQA accreditation compliance.
- Facilitated strategic collaboration between administration division teams and credentialing authorities to ensure compliance with organizational priorities and regulatory standards.
- Managed delegated credentialing agreements and pre-assessment activities across multiple entities to ensure compliance and quality standards.
- Conducted thorough analysis and documentation of aberrant behavior, submitting reports to Health Choice Utah and UUHP government programs to uphold compliance standards.
- Oversaw thorough evaluation of practitioner applications and associated documentation to maintain eligibility standards across all regions.
- Directed administration and maintenance of NPDB and CMS continuous monitoring enrollments and verifications.
- Handled sensitive practitioner issues concerning health conduct and adverse actions, ensuring discretion and compliance with ethical and corporate guidelines.
- Executed targeted outreach initiatives aimed at expanding provider network by leveraging internal resources and fostering direct relationships with physicians.
- Streamlined credentialing database functionality to support staff training and improve overall data management efficiency.
- Engineered manageable applications for provider profiles while establishing robust tracking systems for efficient verification processes.
- Developed strategic plans to align healthcare services with organizational goals.
- Led process improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.
- Analyzed data trends to inform decision-making and improve service delivery outcomes.
- Facilitated workshops and training sessions to promote continuous improvement among staff members.
- Implemented quality assurance measures that enhanced patient satisfaction and care standards.
- Mentored junior consultants, fostering skill development and knowledge transfer within the team.
Senior Client Manager
ARSENAL SPORTS DESIGN, LLC
Salt Lake City, UT
01.2017 - Current
- Orchestrated intricate initiatives by applying superior organizational and project management skills to achieve strategic business alignment.
- Nurtured investor relationships and established strategic alliances to facilitate capital investment opportunities.
- Implemented relationship management strategies that prioritize empathetic communication, resulting in increased trust and sustained client engagement.
- Cultivated cross-functional stakeholder relationships to drive collaboration and enhance communication.
- Established and refined scalable procedures and workflows, resulting in significant enhancements to operational efficiency and productivity.
- Achieved asset protection through revitalized risk-mitigation strategies. Identified and addressed operational gaps, resulting in streamlined processes and reduced inefficiencies.
- Led strategic client initiatives to enhance customer satisfaction and retention.
- Developed tailored solutions that aligned with clients' branding and marketing objectives.
- Mentored junior team members, promoting professional growth and knowledge sharing.
- Drove customer engagement through regular touchpoints, meetings, and events, fostering strong relationships between clients and the company.
- Consistently met or exceeded annual targets for revenue generation, profitability, and client retention rates within assigned territory.
- Championed process improvements that led to reduced response times for client inquiries and increased overall satisfaction levels.
- Served as trusted advisor for key stakeholders within top-tier accounts; providing guidance in areas such as strategic planning, risk mitigation, and growth opportunities.
Interim Director, Credentialing Quality Manager
TELESPECIALISTS, LLC
Fort Myers, Florida
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Managed comprehensive functions within credentialing and licensing department, ensuring compliance and efficiency in a rapidly evolving healthcare accreditation environment.
- Oversaw all facets of accreditation processes, ensuring adherence to TJC, NCQA, CMS, and ISO standards for all applicants.
- Formulated and executed policies and procedures for medical staff bylaws, rules, and regulations.
- Directed large-scale operational transformation through successful implementation and integration of a new enterprise credentialing platform.
- Implemented strategic initiatives to bolster operational agility while maintaining high standards in accreditation compliance and provider licensing support.
- Facilitated training and development initiatives for management staff while integrating technology to streamline operations and reduce workforce requirements.
- Created and maintained compliance scorecard and KPIs, resulting in significant year-over-year improvements in credentialing and revenue cycle management.
- Managed reappointment licensing and expirables process for medical and allied health staff, ensuring adherence to Joint Commission, NCQA, ISO, CMS, and federal and state regulations.
- Managed organization and oversight of all credentials committee activity documentation and minutes.
- Secured NCQA accreditation and successfully navigated TJC survey, achieving an exceptional score of 99.9%.
- Led payer enrollment team in developing billing and enrollment functions.
- Executed comprehensive data integration into health system reporting platform Domo.
- Tailored credentialing database in MD staff, focusing on user experience improvements and productivity enhancements for specialists.
- Directed implementation of new software systems to enhance operational efficiency and user experience.
- Established a culture of ownership and excellence through strategic support for teams in prioritizing objectives and delivering results.
- Conducted monitoring of practitioner performance metrics (OPPE and FPPE) to maintain adherence to compliance requirements.
- Designed comprehensive evaluation frameworks aimed at improving overall quality standards.
- Designed and implemented workflows for payer enrollment teams to enhance automation in tracking applications and contract updates.
- Monitored and analyzed departmental expenditures to maintain fiscal responsibility and optimize resource utilization.
- Led cross-functional teams to develop and implement strategic initiatives aligning with organizational goals.
- Drove process improvements, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs across departments.
- Facilitated stakeholder engagement through effective communication strategies and collaborative decision-making processes.
- Mentored senior leadership, fostering professional development and succession planning across the organization.
- Analyzed market trends to inform strategic planning and position the company for competitive advantage.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
- 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.
- Implemented innovative solutions to solve complex problems, resulting in increased productivity and streamlined operations.
- Optimized staff performance by designing comprehensive training programs tailored to individual needs.
- Increased company revenue by streamlining processes and implementing cost-saving measures.
- Evaluated employee performance objectively using established metrics, leading to fair compensation adjustments based on meritocracy principles.
Credentialing & Quality Specialist
HCA-ST. MARK’S HOSPITAL
Salt Lake City, UT
01.2018 - 01.2021
- Managed a wide array of functions within medical staff department, from credentialing to leadership roles, supporting high-quality care in Level II trauma hospital.
- Managed CMO obligations related to peer reviews, ensuring thorough evaluations and adherence to quality metrics for continuous improvement.
- Oversaw medical staff office functions, including privileging processes and scheduling, to support effective hospital management and strategic initiatives.
- Managed compliance of reappointment and expirables processes for medical staff and delegated providers, aligning with Joint Commission, CMS, and state regulations.
- Achieved successful implementation of hospital CVO/MSO processes through effective project leadership. Delivered seamless integration of credentialing database systems, improving operational capabilities across health system facilities. Enhanced collaboration among teams to drive process improvements.
- Executed comprehensive quality research and verified primary sources for all components of application files.
- Analyzed discrepancies to determine necessary investigations and implemented follow-up actions for effective resolution.
- Managed processing of privilege requests, ensuring adherence to established clinical privilege criteria.
- Optimized credentialing processes by leveraging data-driven insights.
- Facilitated collaboration with quality risk management and C-suite executives to ensure compliance with performance targets.
- Streamlined quality and regulatory compliance procedures to facilitate efficient audits and internal assessments.
- Achieved compliance with accreditation standards through thorough internal file audits. Enhanced readiness for accreditation surveys by executing detailed on-site file audits.
- Optimized processes for credentialing database management, facilitating accurate query reports and timely document generation in alignment with health care regulations.
- Facilitated timely processing of initial and reappointment applications to ensure provider compliance and operational efficiency.
- Implemented strategies that resulted in a TJC survey audit score improvement of more than 95%.
- Managed inquiries from healthcare organizations and facilitated communication with internal and external customers. Oversaw credentialing and privileging processes to ensure compliance and efficiency.
- Facilitated credentialing committee, medical executive committee, and board of trustees meetings, ensuring accurate documentation of minutes.
- Assisted in integrating data into health system intranet 'find-a-provider' platform. Supported creation of standard operating procedures for system connectivity with credentialing database. Monitored website for any irregularities.
- Developed and implemented quality control procedures, enhancing product reliability.
- Conducted quality audits to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
- Facilitated internal training sessions on updated quality standards and compliance requirements.
- Developed comprehensive quality control documentation, standardizing procedures across all departments and promoting consistency.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify process improvements, resulting in increased production efficiency and cost savings.
- Enhanced team performance through regular training sessions and knowledge sharing, resulting in an increase in overall efficiency.
Medical Staff Coordinator II
CHG-COMPHEALTH, Midvale, UT
Midvale, UT
01.2013 - 01.2018
- Achieved project continuity by effectively addressing gaps. Enhanced team capabilities through training in best practices and protocols.
- Assessed quality control metrics, addressed performance challenges, and developed strategic action plans to ensure target compliance.
- Developed and standardized policies and procedures for MSOs and CVOs.
- Developed and integrated process initiatives into database systems, resulting in improved staff efficiencies and overall performance.
- Executed internal file audits to uphold compliance with accreditation standards.
- Conducted thorough file audits weekly, consistently achieving a score of 95% or higher.
- Implemented comprehensive training programs for employees on credentialing database systems, enhancing data entry efficiency and compliance.
- Led cross-functional teams in implementing strategies aimed at achieving optimal performance in healthcare settings.
- Collaborated with administration on CVO development initiatives and performed comprehensive assessments of staff utilization.
- Maintained up-to-date provider information within credentialing database to support operational efficiency.
- Assisted in developing user-friendly applications for provider profiles. Supported implementation of tracking systems for primary source verifications.
- Guided new employees through mentorship processes to foster skill development and integration into the team.
- Led initiatives to improve workflow processes, reducing administrative bottlenecks and increasing productivity.
- Developed protocols for conflict resolution among staff, fostering a collaborative work environment and enhancing morale.
- Managed sensitive information with discretion, ensuring the confidentiality of patient records and employee files.
Office Manager
Y-DESIGN, LLC -Self-Employed
Salt Lake City, UT
01.2014 - 01.2017
- Conducted excellent performance analysis to identify operational gaps, optimizing revenue by 50%.
- Successfully implemented process improvements and set new objectives to enhance program effectiveness and organizational efficiency.
- Maximized revenue through proactive client engagement, and fostering strong relationships that supported retention and expansion opportunities.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by de-escalating conflicts and resolving complex issues with targeted problem-solving strategies.
- Boosted client satisfaction and retention by championing a client-first approach and ensuring a seamless service experience.
Accounting Billing Supervisor
GREEN RIVER CAPITAL, LLC
Salt Lake City, UT
01.2005 - 01.2013
- Improved accuracy and streamlined workflows in accounts receivable and payable operations. Reduced customer delinquency rates by developing and implementing standardized systems. Led staff to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness.
- Mentored staff on best practices in billing procedures and software utilization.
- Led team in resolving billing discrepancies, enhancing customer satisfaction and retention rates.
- Managed monthly financial reporting, ensuring timely submissions to stakeholders and regulatory bodies.
- Oversaw financial operations, producing invoices, processing payments and preparing deposits.
- Streamlined invoice processing for timely payments by enhancing the tracking system and automating data entry tasks.
- Maintained a high level of customer satisfaction by addressing inquiries promptly, resolving issues effectively, and consistently delivering accurate invoices within established timeframes.
Education
Attending -
Utah Valley University
Orem, Utah06.2031
High School Diploma -
Taft Union High School
Taft, CA06.1999
Skills
- Leadership in multi-hospital support
- Credentialing database management
- Rules and policy administration
- Strategic use of data for organizational direction
- Stakeholder presentation experience
- Fostering accountability and excellence
- Experience with diverse healthcare models
- Healthcare operations strategist
- Strong organizational skills
- Recruitment and training expertise
- Initial and Reappointments; expedited privileging
- Facilitate high-impact meetings
- Accreditation audit readiness
- Comprehensive operational evaluations
- Credentialing operations analysis
- FPPE and OPPE knowledge leader
- Delegation Audit and Agreements Management
- Engaging stakeholders diplomatically and inspiring confidence in high-pressure situations
- Project management
- Project implementation
- Staff management
- Performance tracking
- Performance assessments
- Decision-making
- Multitasking and organization
- Team collaboration
Accomplishments
- Drove enterprise-wide operational transformation by conducting rigorous organizational assessments and crafting standardized, data-driven process frameworks that modernized credentialing and quality operations—boosting productivity by 55% and delivering $500K+ in annual cost savings through redesigned workflows and system enhancements.
- Strengthened organizational compliance and risk posture by engineering and deploying unified credentialing audits, governance policies, and scalable quality training platforms. Built and led high-performing teams that drove a culture of operational excellence, achieving 99.9% accreditation compliance, accelerating provider onboarding by 30%, and generating an additional 20% productivity increase and $200K+ in savings through end-to-end operational redesign.
- Directed credentialing strategy across multi-site healthcare environments—including CVOs, MCOs, hospital systems, health plans, locum tenens, and telemedicine—harnessing analytics-driven insights to guide organizational decision-making, elevate performance management, and scale operations across regional markets with consistent quality and compliance.
- Pioneered next-generation credentialing and compliance solutions across diverse care delivery hybrid ecosystems by integrating AI and automation technologies, reengineering core processes, and anticipating regulatory and operational shifts. Developed and instituted scalable, future-ready operating models that strengthened organizational resilience and positioned teams for long-term success in multiple rapidly evolving healthcare landscapes.
Affiliations
Member of NAMSS, FAMSS, and UAMSS
Certification
- NATIONAL ASSOCIATION MEDICAL STAFF SERVICES, Washington, DC
- Leadership Certificate Program, In Progress
- Certified Professional Medical Services Management (CPMSM), 2022
- Certified Provider Credentialing Specialist (CPCS), 2021
ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
- AREAS OF EXPERTISE: Leadership; Credentialing; Quality Control; Regulatory Compliance; Policy Development & Implementation; Project Management; Documentation; Education; Training; Mentorship; Process Enhancement; Mitigation; Operations; Job Analysis & Design; Performance Tracking; Recruitment; Report Generation; Communication; Strategic Planning/Impact Assessment; Fiscal Management; Administrative Oversight; Operations Analytics; Credentialing platform efficiency; AI integration
- Software / Technology Proficiency
- MDStaff, MD-App, Visual Cactus, DOMO, Verifiables, Verisys, CertifyOS, Credentialing Homegrown Systems, EPIC, Salesforce, Microsoft Office – Outlook, Word and Excel, Smartsheet, Microsoft Office – CoPilot
ENDORSEMENTS
- “Laura’s ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes with ease and accuracy has been a cornerstone of our compliance success. She is a true professional who leads with integrity and inspires those around her to perform at their best.” — Kristi Iannucci, Chief Administrative Officer, TeleSpecialists, LLC
- “Laura demonstrated excellent leadership potential and a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach. She improved credentialing processes with professionalism and was a pleasure to work with.” — Dr. Kenneth Schaecher, CMO, University of Utah Health Plans
- “Laura demonstrated remarkable knowledge of credentialing processes, compliance requirements, and payer enrollment. She has a strong command of the technical and regulatory aspects of credentialing, and what impressed me most was her ability to combine precision and efficiency with a genuine commitment to providers and colleagues. Laura approaches each challenge with professionalism, resourcefulness, and a collaborative spirit. Laura is also a natural leader. She cultivates a positive and supportive team culture, encourages professional growth in those around her, and models the highest standard of integrity in her work. She communicates clearly, navigates complex situations with confidence, and is highly skilled at building relationships with providers, staff, and organizational partners.” — Alena Rothwell, CPCS, CPMSM, aPHR, Credentialing and Licensing Manager, Tele Specialists, LLC
AWARDS
The CompHealth Experience Award, 2014, Putting People First Award, 2014
Languages
Spanish
Professional Working
Timeline
Senior Credentialing Consultant
UNIVERSITY OF UTAH HEALTH PLANS
01.2023 - Current
Interim Director, Credentialing Quality Manager
TELESPECIALISTS, LLC
01.2021 - 01.2023
Credentialing & Quality Specialist
HCA-ST. MARK’S HOSPITAL
01.2018 - 01.2021
Senior Client Manager
ARSENAL SPORTS DESIGN, LLC
01.2017 - Current
Office Manager
Y-DESIGN, LLC -Self-Employed
01.2014 - 01.2017
Medical Staff Coordinator II
CHG-COMPHEALTH, Midvale, UT
01.2013 - 01.2018
Accounting Billing Supervisor
GREEN RIVER CAPITAL, LLC
01.2005 - 01.2013
Attending -
Utah Valley University
High School Diploma -
Taft Union High School