Heleena Hufnagel serves as the Clinical Quality Coordinator at the Washington State Health Care Authority, where she plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of care delivered to Medicaid recipients and other vulnerable populations. With her extensive background in public health, Heleena is committed...
Heleena Hufnagel serves as the Clinical Quality Coordinator at the Washington State Health Care Authority, where she plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of care delivered to Medicaid recipients and other vulnerable populations. With her extensive background in public health, Heleena is committed to advancing equitable healthcare solutions, particularly for individuals navigating complex transitions between hospital settings and skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). Her expertise in strategic analysis and policy development for Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) and Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (DSNP) uniquely positions her to address the multifaceted challenges faced by these populations.
In her current role, Heleena collaborates closely with clinical, data, and policy teams to select and monitor Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) measures, ensuring they align with both Medicaid and commercial contracts. She coordinates the Quality Measurement, Monitoring, and Improvement Program (QMMI) and leads initiatives within the Health Equity Data Workgroup and the Performance Measures Coordinating Committee. Her work is instrumental in maintaining the Washington State Common Measure Set, which serves as a foundational tool for performance measurement across healthcare providers.
Heleena's strong analytical skills, coupled with her proficiency in healthcare management and medical literacy, enable her to effectively navigate the complexities of performance measurement and quality improvement. Her dedication to fostering health equity is evident in her efforts to integrate diverse perspectives and data into decision-making processes, ultimately striving to ensure that all individuals receive the high-quality care they deserve. Through her leadership and commitment, Heleena continues to make significant strides in transforming healthcare delivery in Washington State.
