International Women's Day: Celebrating Women Leaders in Healthcare at SimiTree 

This International Women's Day, we celebrate the remarkable women shaping the healthcare industry at SimiTree. Today, we have the opportunity to hear from three exceptional leaders: Melanie Elliott, PhD, Tiffany Fuller, and Laura Wilson. They share their unique perspectives, career journeys, and hopes for the future of women in healthcare. 

Dr. Melanie Elliott, Vice President of Analytics Strategy 

In our first spotlight for International Women's Day, meet Dr. Melanie Elliott, the Vice President of Analytics Strategy at SimiTree. As a social and health psychologist with over two decades of experience in healthcare research and data analysis, Melanie plays a crucial role at SimiTree, leading the way in utilizing data to drive innovation and growth in the healthcare industry. With a doctoral degree in Social and Health Psychology from SUNY Stony Brook and postdoctoral training at the Center for Developmental Science at UNC Chapel Hill, Melanie brings a wealth of expertise to her position.  

In this interview, she shares insights into her journey, addressing gender inequalities in healthcare, overcoming obstacles, and providing valuable advice to the next generation of female leaders. Melanie's impactful contributions to the healthcare industry and commitment to positive change are exemplified through her achievements and dedication. 

In the Heart of Healthcare Insights: Dr. Melanie Elliott's Journey 

Before diving into her interview, take a quick journey through Dr. Melanie Elliott's illustrious career by delving into her professional narrative. The following biography unveils the depth of her expertise, spanning over two decades in healthcare, and highlights the instrumental role she plays as the Vice President of Analytics Strategy at SimiTree. From groundbreaking research and psychometrics to advanced analytics and business intelligence, her contributions have left an indelible mark on the healthcare landscape.  

In collaboration with her colleagues at SimiTree, Dr. Melanie Elliott serves as a key figure in assisting healthcare agencies in uncovering critical information necessary for data-driven decisions and cultivating wisdom through data to propel innovation and growth. Boasting over two decades of experience in healthcare, Dr. Elliott leverages her expertise to support agencies in designing and analyzing empirical research, conducting psychometrics in assessment development and analysis, defining and analyzing outcomes, employing advanced analytics, implementing business intelligence, and developing data-related best practices for comprehensive data-driven business planning. The positive impact of data-driven decision-making on individuals receiving care, as well as the agencies and providers delivering that care, brings great joy to Dr. Elliott. Dr. Elliott brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as the Vice President of Analytics Strategy at SimiTree. In this capacity, she actively contributes to driving the vision and fostering innovation in healthcare through analytics.

An Interview with Melanie: Beyond the Data  

On Healthcare & Gender Equality: 

What initially drew you to work in healthcare, and how has your work impacted women's health or addressed gender inequities in the healthcare system?

ME: My initial interest in healthcare came from research I conducted between undergrad and graduate school on Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a common GI condition that affects 8-20% of the population and is more prevalent among women. Our research and that of many others has changed how IBS is viewed and treated. IBS has no known organic cause. Initially, the focus was on IBS as a psychosomatic syndrome that was self-induced in women and has since changed to legitimizing the condition and focusing more on how stress exacerbates the condition, which influences physicians to take the pain and discomfort of women experiencing IBS more seriously.  

What major obstacle have you overcome in your career that helped you grow the most, and how did you do it? 

ME: I would not necessarily define it as a major obstacle. Still, one thing that was rather frustrating in my career was repeated experiences of standing next to a man with a PhD, the same as me, and having them introduced as Dr. Last Name while I was referred to as Melanie or Ms. Elliott. It was only when my male colleagues witnessing this called it out that it started to change. In particular, I would like to thank Dr. Denny Morrison for always recognizing the strength of women and helping to correct inequalities like this. It will take all of us to keep our eyes and ears open and be the change we want to see when we see any type of inappropriate inequality. 

What does International Women's Day mean to you, and how can we best support women in achieving their goals in healthcare? 

ME: Use the opportunity to celebrate all women. Post a compliment. Point out an achievement. Take on a mentor. Be the change you wish to see. 

On Career Insights & Inspiration: 

Looking back, what advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders in healthcare? 

ME: Treat every woman in your industry as an ally. Build each other up, no matter if you are colleagues or competitors. We will achieve great things in healthcare and address inequalities more rapidly through support and collegiality. 

Who are some women who have inspired you on your journey, and how did they impact you? 

ME: Two women who inspired me in my graduate work in Attachment were Mary Ainsworth and Mary Main. These two pioneering women created two pivotal assessments of Attachment that are still used to this day: the Strange Situation (Ainsworth) and the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI, Main). They proved that constructs we think are qualitative only can indeed be quantified and studied. Although they have both passed on, their assessments and research forged a path that lives on, showing us that anything can be studied if we apply rigor to our understanding and assessment of it. This is so important for the future of healthcare, specifically behavioral health, as there are still many constructs that have yet to be fully defined and studied in that field. 

On Personal Touch & Vision: 

What is your proudest moment or career milestone that exemplifies your contributions to the healthcare industry? 

ME: One proud moment was when I had the honor of presenting with Dr. Wanna Ellison and Verna Foust of Red Rock Behavioral Health Services at NatCon21. We were in the middle of COVID-19, and the conference was presented online only, which was a feat in and of itself. The story that Red Rock shared was such a poignant one. Red Rock, like many community behavioral health centers, had treatment protocols in place for depression, which is very common in those settings. However, it was difficult for Red Rock to prove that what they were doing was making a difference in the lives of the clients they served. The presentation detailed how we helped Red Rock standardize and document their depression treatment protocol, and we prepared business intelligence dashboards that individual clinicians and their supervisors could use to track weekly progress and fidelity to the treatment protocol.  

The process of using the streamlined protocol and the BI dashboards permitted Red Rock to prove that their treatment improved severe depression by 66%, even when fidelity to the protocol was not perfect (75% when fidelity was fully honored). And by clinicians being able to see that what they were doing was working and showing this to clients, Red Rock also saw an improvement in staff satisfaction and client engagement. It was so wonderful to know that our services and products were able to amplify the phenomenal work of Red Rock, helping them prove their strength and positive impact in a way that their staff, payers, and the community could finally see and take notice.  

In the fast lane: "One of my passions is Formula 1 racing; where women are quickly moving up in the ranks in the F1 Academy, and they will soon join the men on the grid in a major grand prix." Red Bull Ring, Spielberg, Austria

What is a fun fact or personal anecdote that reveals your unique perspective and strengths? 

ME: I was leading a team of analysts and engineers at a good-sized company during a period that felt very chaotic. We had inherited a large amount of code and products that were highly customized and, as a result, they were breaking left and right. Tensions from other teams within the company and some clients were rising. The team was getting very disheartened. So, I decided it was time to play Hangman. In a regular weekly meeting with the team, I drew a Hangman game on the board in the conference room and outlined a two-word phrase — four letters in the first word and seven letters in the second word. The team started guessing and filling in letters. At some point, one of the team members burst out laughing. I said, okay, I think you guessed it, go ahead, and tell us what it is. She said, SH** HAPPENS. And I told the team, that’s exactly right. It does and it will continue to do so. And it is not the fact that it happens that we need to worry about, but rather what is most important is how we respond and handle it for our team, for our company, and most importantly for our clients. The team not only got a good laugh out of the exercise, which took a bit of the edge off, but it helped them shift their focus to a successful solution rather than the problem itself. 

What are your hopes and aspirations for the future of women in healthcare and the industry as a whole? 

ME: We are lucky to have so many strong, amazing women as leaders in healthcare. I hope that their voices continue to be heard and their impact is seen at the highest levels of government, leading not only to parity in healthcare but also the omission of health disparities among all people.

How do you advocate for positive mental health in a demanding field? 

ME: Health has so many components, such as physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.  All components need to be cared for, not only within us but in others as well. We need to do our best to listen openly to ourselves and others — all feelings, symptoms, and needs are important and should be attended to with love, compassion, and care.
 

Dr. Melanie Elliott's interview offers a profound insight into her journey as the Vice President of Analytics Strategy at SimiTree, making it a fitting tribute to International Women's Day. With a wealth of experience in healthcare research and data analysis spanning over two decades, Melanie's strategic leadership has left an indelible mark on the industry.  

Her dedication to addressing gender inequalities, overcoming challenges, and uplifting the next generation of female leaders is both admirable and inspiring. We express our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Melanie Elliott for not only sharing her invaluable contributions to healthcare but also for offering crucial advice to women on International Women's Day. Her call to celebrate and support women, coupled with her commitment to positive change, resonates profoundly as we honor her on this special day. Melanie's wisdom serves as a beacon for women navigating their own paths in healthcare, and we are grateful for her lasting impact. 

 

Tiffany Fuller, Senior Vice President, Coding and OASIS 

In this next spotlight for International Women's Day, meet Tiffany Fuller, the Senior Vice President of Coding and OASIS. With a background rooted in the post-acute industry, Tiffany's journey includes co-founding Home Health Solutions, leading through strategic mergers, and currently directing SimiTree's coding division. Her impactful leadership over the past two years has driven the coding department to unparalleled success.  

Professional Brilliance: Tiffany Fuller's Trail through Healthcare

 
Before jumping right into Tiffany Fuller's insightful interview, take a moment to explore her remarkable professional journey within the post-acute industry. As a co-founder of Home Health Solutions, LLC, Tiffany has played pivotal roles in steering organizations through strategic mergers, contributing significantly to the success of SimiTree's coding division. Her leadership, passion for excellence, and commitment to innovation have left an indelible mark on the healthcare landscape. Get to know Tiffany more intimately as we uncover the highlights of her transformative career. 

Tiffany embarked on her professional journey in the post-acute industry in 2012, as a co-founder of Home Health Solutions, LLC, a distinguished entity specializing in Home Health and Hospice Coding and Consulting. Serving as the Chief Operating Officer, Tiffany played a central role in steering the organization until its strategic merger with Simione Healthcare Consultants in 2020. Subsequently, following the amalgamation of Simione with BlackTree in 2021, Tiffany assumed a leadership position as the Director of SimiTree's coding division.  

Over the past two years since the merger, Tiffany has been instrumental in propelling the SimiTree coding department to achieve remarkable milestones. Along with a remarkable team, the department has witnessed substantial revenue growth, the expansion of service lines, and the establishment of cost-effective solutions tailored for home health, hospice, and palliative care organizations across the nation. Driven by a passion for leadership, Tiffany looks to continue making a positive impact by delivering excellence, efficiency, and innovation in every facet of her professional endeavors. 

 

Leadership Journey: An Interview with Tiffany

Tiffany, armed with a bachelor’s in management and certifications, reflects on the challenges faced by women in healthcare leadership, emphasizing the need for empowerment. International Women's Day holds a special place for Tiffany, a day to celebrate women's positive impact globally. In this interview, she shares insights for the next generation of female leaders, drawing inspiration from icons like Ruth Bader Ginsburg and the strong women around her in healthcare. Tiffany Fuller embodies the spirit of International Women's Day, showcasing leadership, resilience, and a commitment to positive change for women in healthcare. 

On Healthcare & Gender Equality:

What initially drew you to work in healthcare, and how has your work impacted women's health or addressed gender inequities in the healthcare system? 

TF: I grew up in the healthcare space with both of my parents being nurses. It was completely normal to hear talks of wound care over dinner. But for me, being in the healthcare industry came by opportunity rather than selection, and it is a happenstance that I am eternally grateful for. I feel honored to work alongside so many incredibly skilled, knowledgeable, and empathetic individuals. 

In an industry that is predominantly women, they are still largely underrepresented in leadership positions. While I don't feel this is always intentional, I do believe that women, particularly women in healthcare, still face implicit bias as they are often seen as eternal caretakers rather than leaders and innovators. For my small part of a much broader social issue, I want to provide an environment that empowers women to lead, use their knowledge to innovate, develop those around them, and strive for success and upward mobility.  

What major obstacle have you overcome in your career that helped you grow the most, and how did you do it? 

TF:  I prefer to see these challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. I think that regardless of gender, we each face certain challenges in our lives and careers that require us to "pull up our bootstraps." My career in the healthcare industry started at a kitchen table while I was eight months pregnant with my third child (excellent timing to start a new journey!). My husband was active-duty USMC at the time, and our lives can be best described as absolute chaos with a move every two years sprinkled throughout. A brilliant idea by J'non Griffin, now SimiTree’s Senior Vice President of Compliance and Coding, quickly evolved into a full-blown business. My biggest challenge in this was no different than any other mother faces — how to give 100% of yourself to everyone and everything; be the best mom, the best wife, the best business, the best friend... have I mentioned military deployments yet? Juggling it all is likely the most relatable "obstacle" we all share. 

What does International Women's Day mean to you, and how can we best support women in achieving their goals in healthcare? 

TF: International Women's Day to me is a day to celebrate women who have made a positive impact in the world. From those who have fought and continue to fight for women's equality on a global scale to those who make an impact in their own ways within their own communities and industries. Within the healthcare space, let's recognize the potential we have as individuals and appreciate the value that women bring in every aspect of healthcare. 

On Career Insights & Inspiration:

Looking back, what advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders in healthcare?

TF: After two decades of leadership experience, one of the most invaluable skills I've honed is navigating skepticism from others. Whether it's based on gender, education, title, or origin, facing doubt is inevitable. Yet, nothing rivals the satisfaction of defying those doubts and proving them wrong. Strive to excel unapologetically in your own authenticity, so much so that they can't help but take notice. 

Who are some women who have inspired you on your journey, and how did they impact you? 

TF: Inspiration on a global scale: In my office hangs a pop print of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, an advocate and icon of gender equality. A woman, who to my earlier point, was so unapologetically herself and firm in her beliefs that people had no choice but to notice. She is a constant reminder that the evolution of norms can be a long and arduous journey, yet it is one we must never stop striving for.  

As for daily inspiration, I want to recognize the women I work with. I am surrounded by inspiring women who strive to be their very best in every facet of life. I have learned so much from each of them about patience, empathy, determination, and balance. I am extremely privileged to work alongside such a strong cohort of supportive women. 

On Personal Touch & Vision:

What is your proudest moment or career milestone that exemplifies your contributions to the healthcare industry? 

TF: To have played a pivotal role in building a successful business and to continue my contributions here at SimiTree. 

What is a fun fact or personal anecdote that reveals your unique perspective and strengths? 

TF: As a Marine family, we moved 14 times in 17 years. These experiences have certainly better prepared me to be adaptable, resilient, and expeditious. 

What are your hopes and aspirations for the future of women in healthcare and the industry as a whole? 

TF: My hope is that women in healthcare are recognized adequately and equally for their contributions. It is especially important for women to be more prevalent in senior leadership positions within healthcare as there is a large decrease in representation in the C Suite levels. We must not overlook the valuable knowledge, ideas, and experience women bring to the table, especially when the table is in the boardroom.  

How do you advocate for positive mental health in a demanding field?

TF: In the demanding field of healthcare, advocating for mental health is paramount. It begins with acknowledging its significance and dismantling the stigma attached to it. This advocacy doesn't always require grand gestures; even simple acts of reaching out to check in on others or expressing gratitude can make a profound difference. Sometimes, all it takes is a small acknowledgment to remind someone that their contributions and existence matter. 

Employers play a crucial role by providing access to mental health resources. However, fostering a supportive culture among employees is equally vital. Creating an environment where support thrives ensures that individuals feel understood and supported in navigating life's challenges. In moments when life feels overwhelming, having such an environment and the necessary tools can make a world of difference in promoting overall well-being. 

We extend our sincere gratitude to Tiffany Fuller for generously sharing her professional brilliance and personal insights. Her reflections on the challenges faced by women in healthcare leadership, her commitment to empowering women, and her invaluable advice for the next generation of female leaders serve as an inspiring testament to her dedication to positive change. 

On this International Women's Day, Tiffany embodies the spirit of celebration, resilience, and leadership. We appreciate her for not only shaping the trajectory of the healthcare industry but also for her commitment to uplifting women in their professional endeavors. Tiffany's vision for a future where women are recognized and represented adequately in healthcare leadership resonates deeply, and her advocacy for positive mental health in this demanding field adds a compassionate touch to her impactful contributions. We thank Tiffany Fuller for her exceptional leadership, inspiring journey, and invaluable advice, making a lasting impact on women in healthcare. 

 

Laura Wilson, RN, BSN, Vice President

Step into the world of Laura Wilson, RN, BSN, COS-C, as we shine our final spotlight on her exceptional career in celebration of International Women's Day. With over three decades of dedicated service in home-based care, Laura's journey began in 1985, evolving through clinical and regional leadership roles across the western United States, Minnesota, and Florida. 

Laura Wilson brings extensive leadership experience to her role as SimiTree’s Vice President, Operations Consulting, as well as expertise in multi-site operations, quality management, human resources, compliance, and business development. Since she began her career in home-based care in 1985, Wilson has served in clinical and regional leadership roles throughout the western United States, Minnesota, and Florida. In addition to her experience as a home health provider and consultant, Wilson has acute care experience, having spent two years as a registered nurse at St. Luke’s Hospital, Fargo, ND, after earning her BS in nursing from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks.  

As Vice President, Wilson leads SimiTree’s teams of experienced clinical and operational consultants, helping providers understand and implement regulatory changes, shore up clinical documentation, understand clinical requirements for eligibility,, and deploy strategic clinical operations to strengthen the provision of clinical care and financial performance. She is a popular webinar presenter and lecturer at industry events, covering topics ranging from best practices under PDGM to the effective use of telehealth. Wilson often partners with SimiTree’s Learning Solutions as an instructor providing virtual classroom training in clinical management. Wilson lives in Arizona with her two cats. When she isn’t working, she enjoys traveling and devouring as many new experiences as possible.  Wilson is a charter-certified sailor, a motorcycle enthusiast, and an avid reader. 

Breaking Barriers: An Interview with Laura Wilson on Gender Equality in Healthcare & More        

A charter-certified sailor, motorcycle enthusiast, avid reader, and dedicated advocate for advancing healthcare practice, don’t miss Laura’s unique perspective and insights in this exclusive International Women's Day interview. 

From personal anecdotes to hopes for the future, Laura's interview encapsulates her inspiring journey, dedication to mentorship, and advocacy for positive mental health in the demanding field of healthcare. Join us in honoring Laura Wilson's contributions and her vision for a more inclusive and empowered future for women in healthcare.  

On Healthcare & Gender Equality: 

What initially drew you to working in healthcare, and how has your work impacted women's health or addressed gender inequities in the healthcare system? 

LW: I wanted to be in healthcare —specifically a nurse — since before I was in kindergarten. I spent my playtime trying to patch up animals. I’ve always been drawn to helping people in whatever capacity I can. As a leader within the industry, I’ve consciously worked to elevate women’s voices and expertise. Healthcare is heavily dominated by women at the middle management and front-line areas. Men still dominate leadership at a senior level. I have recommended and/or promoted women in every position I’ve been in.

What major obstacle have you overcome in your career that helped you grow the most, and how did you do it?  

LW: I’m struggling with this question. I don’t think of things as obstacles — just a new problem to be solved. At 55, I did have my position eliminated from a system, and that was certainly an experience. I learned what that feels like and that ageism exists. The best part was the many women friends and colleagues who reached out with contacts, connections, and even positions. It renewed my belief in women helping women. 

What does International Women's Day mean to you, and how can we best support women in achieving their goals in healthcare?  

LW: With the demise of the matrilineal dynasties of ancient times, women have existed in a world and rules built and run by men. International Women’s Day shines a light on contributions made specifically by women, as well as the atrocities women continue to bear. Advances in women’s rights are very recent on the timeline of the world.

On Career Insights & Inspiration: 

Looking back, what advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders in healthcare?  

LW: Be yourself and embrace your unique style. When I began my career, women in leadership literally wore skirts and ties to “fit in” with men. We modeled ourselves after the military styles of leadership. None of these plays to our strengths and the value our perspective brings to leadership and decision-making. So, understand your personal style and skill and use it. It’s OK to interject emotion or feelings — it can help soften tough decisions and put a human touch in the work environment. And there are some phenomenal male colleagues — listen and learn to their thoughts. Decisions get better with more perspective.

Who are some women who have inspired you on your journey, and how did they impact you?  

LW: One of my professors at university was my first mentor and inspiration. She was levelheaded, no-nonsense, and a problem solver. She taught me there’s a solution to the problem if you just take a breath and think.  I have been blessed to be surrounded by strong, successful women in business who gave me the courage to step up, take a chance, and try something new. 

On Personal Touch & Vision: 

What is your proudest moment or career milestone that exemplifies your contributions to the healthcare industry?  

LW: There are so many, and they usually revolve around individuals I’ve mentored or led. My greatest sense of accomplishment and pride is in watching those I’ve had a hand in growing and supporting turning around and achieving success themselves. An individual I introduced to sales is now the leader of an international sales team. A physical therapist I promoted and introduced to leadership went on to start and grow their own home health agency and sell it successfully. There are many others. My satisfaction comes from knowing I’m building and growing leaders who can take the next step in solving the complexities of the healthcare industry.

What is a fun fact or personal anecdote that reveals your unique perspective and strengths?  

LW: One that came to mind was a lesson from my nursing professor. It came time to transfer a large patient from a chair back to bed, and my friend and I went to get our male colleague. My professor looked at us and said “You can’t have it both ways. Your male colleague is a nurse, not to be used as a man. Solve this transfer as a nurse, not a man or a woman.” It’s stuck with me. If I wanted to be recognized for my abilities and not my gender, I had to carry the argument through to everyone, not take advantage of gender when it was convenient.

 What are your hopes and aspirations for the future of women in healthcare and the industry as a whole?  

LW: My sincere hope is that more qualified women will “crack the glass ceiling” and achieve positions of real power and influence within healthcare and policy-making roles. This country and world have excluded women from decision-making, and we are failing to solve problems. It’s time to bring a different set of skills to bear on these issues.

How do you advocate for positive mental health in a demanding field?  

LW: I would say model the behavior; however, I’ve struggled with work-life balance throughout my career. The positive is I love my work, so it doesn’t always feel like working.  I have consistently advocated for my team members to do a better job than I did. To take real time off without checking email and phones. I do have interests and friends outside the industry, and I believe that’s key. You need to step away from the issues of the day and flex different parts of your mind and personality.

LW: "Travel to Mexico City to explore the culture, sites, and cuisine. What better way than exploring an artisan market!"

Join us in celebrating Laura Wilson's contributions to the healthcare industry, her dedication to uplifting women in leadership, and her enduring commitment to creating a more inclusive and impactful future. Laura's proudest moments in mentoring and supporting individuals, her advocacy for a more inclusive healthcare industry, and her commitment to positive mental health showcase her multifaceted contributions to the field.  

We commend Laura Wilson for her outstanding leadership, dedication to mentorship, and her vision for a future where women wield significant influence in healthcare decision-making. We thank Laura for her invaluable contributions and celebrate her as a beacon for women in healthcare. Thank you for participating with us, Laura, and for all the work you do here at SimiTree.