Vada Grant, RN, MPH
Administrative Director, Quality and Resource Management
Why did you choose to leave bedside caring?
I spent five years as a staff nurse caring for patients in state-operated psychiatric facilities. I was given opportunities in management and project development, and I enjoyed the mental stimulation that these provided. I was then introduced to utilization review, which was a new field at that time, thanks to Medicare! I was hired as one of the first utilization review coordinators at Loyola.
What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy project planning and developing the talents of those people who work in my department. I enjoy the variety each day brings.
How many years have you been working at LUHS?
24 years
Where did you attend nursing school?
BSN -- University of Illinois
Master of Public Health -- Benedictine University
Practice Nursing -- Illinois State Psychiatric Institute, Madden Mental Health Center, DuPage County Health Department, MacNeal Memorial Hospital
How do your nursing skills help in your administrative role?
Clinical nursing knowledge is essential when assessing medical necessity and appropriateness of care and for discussing patient conditions with physicians and insurers. My staff do this every day, so it is important that we communicate effectively as a team.
Did you receive any additional training or mentoring to help you succeed as an administrator?
I have always worked for leaders at Loyola who encouraged my growth and provided opportunities to develop management skills and expertise in several areas. I also took advantage of several development series offered by Human Resources.