Pavani Kottapalli RN, MHA, (DBA)

A Journey Across Borders: Transforming Global Healthcare

Growing up in India, I witnessed firsthand the challenges of healthcare access and the profound impact it can have on individuals and communities. Over the past 14 years, I’ve gained diverse experiences across healthcare systems in India, Saudi Arabia, and the United States, uncovering how systemic issues in policy, resource allocation, and equity shape the quality of care. As a nurse, I’ve worked on the frontlines, but I’ve also developed a deep understanding of the larger structural barriers that prevent people from receiving the care they need. These experiences have fueled my passion not just for caregiving but for driving the changes necessary to transform healthcare systems globally.

Pursuing a Higher Calling: Motivation for a Doctorate in Business Administration

As my career progressed, it became clear that clinical expertise alone wasn’t enough to address the complex challenges within healthcare. I recognized the need to develop a broader set of skills—leadership, management, and policy-making—that would empower me to create meaningful change. This realization led me to pursue a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) with a specialization in Healthcare Administration. The DBA will provide the advanced business knowledge necessary to formulate policies and strategies that can improve healthcare systems by making them more efficient, accessible, and sustainable. My mission is to create solutions that serve all populations, with a special focus on those who are underserved and vulnerable.

Professional Experience

1. Assistant Director of Nursing – Infinity Healthcare Management, IL

– Oversee daily operations for the nursing department.

– Implement and monitor policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulations.

– Supervise, train, and evaluate nursing staff, including onboarding new nurses.

– Manage departmental goals, scheduling, and budget.

– Provide direct patient care when necessary, and address patient complaints.

– Collaborate with doctors, executives, and vendors to improve services and quality metrics.

– Design and manage continuous quality improvement (CQI) initiatives.

– Respond to behavioral and clinical emergencies.

1. Director of Nursing/IP (Infection Preventionist)

– Led infection control projects and quality assurance initiatives during COVID-19.

– Mentored new graduate nurses, fostering the next generation of healthcare leaders.

– Developed and enforced policies at regulatory standards.

III. Quality Control & Infection Prevention

– Worked on infection control and QA projects, focusing on improving patient outcomes.

– Networked among hospitals and long-term care settings to enhance healthcare quality.

About

 I am a seasoned nurse director with extensive experience in nursing, academics, and leadership. My greatest professional success lies in ensuring patient safety and providing holistic care to those in need. Additionally, I take pride in developing the next generation of nurses, equipping them with the right mentorship and proven practices to become leaders in the field.

What I bring to the table

With a background in both nursing practice and healthcare management, I bring a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare model and a strong commitment to quality and compliance. My experience in infection control and quality assurance projects highlights my dedication to improving patient outcomes and fostering a culture of excellence.

Something about my background

I have a strong academic foundation with a BSN, RN, MHA, and ongoing doctoral studies (DBA). My certifications in BLS and CPI further underscore my qualifications in nursing and healthcare management.

A Highlight from my career

 During my tenure, I have been instrumental in leading infection prevention efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has had a lasting impact on patient care and safety protocols within the facilities I managed.

What I commit to as a professional in my field

 I am committed to delivering high-quality patient care and mentoring future nursing leaders. I believe that designing policies and enforcing them at regulatory standards with the right leaders is key to sustaining excellence in healthcare.

Proficiency

 – Nursing Leadership & Management

– Infection Control & Quality Assurance

– Policy Development & Compliance

– Healthcare Systems & Structure

– Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)

– Emergency Response & Patient Safety

Demonstrated Professional/Academic Excellence