Lisa D. Baird, CPC-I, COC, has carved an impactful career in the health care industry, specializing in managed care and professional coding. As chief operating officer at Aetna Better Health, Ms. Baird oversees the daily operations of the KanCare program in Kansas, a Medicaid-managed care initiative serving approximately 140,000 members with annual revenues nearing $1 billion. She manages member and provider services, directs the contracting departments, and represents both the state and Aetna in provider relations. Her leadership ensures that operational and strategic goals align to meet the needs of both members and stakeholders effectively.
Ms. Baird’s academic achievements have significantly influenced her career. She earned a Master of Health Administration in health care administration and management and a Bachelor of Science in health services administration, both from the University of Phoenix. These degrees, combined with her certifications as a certified professional coder and licensed coding instructor from the American Academy of Professional Coders, have provided her with the expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of Medicaid and managed care.
Ms. Baird’s career reflects steady growth and an ability to adapt to diverse challenges. She began her journey in the health care sector at Coventry Health Care, advancing from an entry-level position to director of compliance over two decades. Ms. Baird joined Aetna, a CVS Health Company, as director of implementations, where she traveled extensively to establish managed care plans across various states. Her role evolved into chief of staff for the Great Plain Region, further honing her skills in operational leadership. Promotions at Aetna Better Health followed, with Ms. Baird serving as chief operating officer for Missouri, Kentucky, and Kansas. Her colleagues dubbed her “the fixer” for her ability to stabilize health plans facing implementation challenges. In Kansas, she also took on the role of interim chief executive officer, showcasing her adaptability and capacity to lead during transitional periods.
Ms. Baird’s ability to foster collaboration and build trust with her teams sets her apart as a leader. She values open communication and transparency, creating an environment where colleagues feel comfortable expressing their ideas. She encourages her team to voice opinions, even when they challenge her perspective, fostering a culture of mutual respect and effective problem-solving. This collaborative approach enhances both her leadership and the overall effectiveness of her teams. Her motivations stem from a deep desire to prove her capabilities. As a first-generation college graduate, she grew up in a household where hard work was a priority, but higher education was not always accessible. Witnessing her father’s career ceiling due to a lack of formal education inspired her to pursue her degrees and advance her career. Each milestone, from earning her bachelor’s degree to becoming a director, reinforced her confidence and determination to push beyond perceived limits.
Ms. Baird’s dedication to her profession is matched by her commitment to civic engagement. She contributes to animal rescue organizations and the American Heart Association, reflecting her passion for service beyond the workplace. Additionally, she shares her insights and experiences as a guest speaker, inspiring others to pursue their goals in the health care industry. Ms. Baird has remained grounded and approachable, valuing humility and the importance of learning from mistakes. She views challenges as opportunities to grow and believes in the power of teamwork to achieve shared goals. This mindset has earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers alike.
Outside her professional life, Ms. Baird enjoys camping and cherishes time with her family, including her son, a Marine and paramedic. Born in Poplar Bluff, she envisions a future where she can mentor aspiring health care professionals, teach health administration or coding courses at a university, and consult as a sought-after expert in the field. While she has no aspirations for the chief executive officer role, she takes immense pride in her position as chief operating officer and looks forward to transitioning into consulting upon retirement. Ms. Baird hopes to retire comfortably around age 65, leaving a legacy of significant contributions to the health care industry. She aspires to be remembered not only for her professional achievements but also for her ability to inspire and positively impact those she has worked with throughout her career.