I became interested in health care in 1979 when, as an intern for the Bureau for Health Services, I developed and edited a state-wide newsletter, “Mental Notes.” In 1981, I transferred to the Division of Licensing and Regulation in the Office of Inspector General where I spent 25 years involved in all aspects of the regulation of health care facilities and services.

In this office, I was promoted from supervisor to assistant director and finally the Governor appointed me director in 2000. I was also appointed Acting Director of the divisions of Child Care and Long-Term Care.  As director I was responsible to ensure that all health facilities and services in the state met licensing and Medicare/Medicaid requirements.  I provided direct or indirect supervision of more than fifty staff, most of whom were registered nurses.

My years of dealing with health care issues led me to understand the need for personal health care advocacy.  I see that patients sometime do not receive the care they deserve because of a basic lack of understanding of the overly complicated and complex health care system.  I hope to use my 25 years of experience in dealing with health care to assist others navigate what has become a health care maze.