Amanda Wells
Amanda Wells is a seasoned healthcare leader with more than 15 years of experience spanning clinical care, utilization management, and insurance operations. Beginning her career as a medical assistant and later a registered nurse, she developed deep frontline insight into patient needs, care coordination, and the operational complexities of the healthcare system. Over nine years at Licking Memorial Hospital, Amanda strengthened her clinical foundation before transitioning into the insurance sector, where she quickly advanced through roles in precertification, utilization management, and clinical supervision.
Amanda joined Aetna, a CVS Health company, in 2016 and steadily rose through leadership positions, ultimately serving as Manager of Clinical Health Services. In this capacity, she led teams focused on utilization management, operational excellence, and patient-centered decision-making. Her commitment to quality, efficiency, and compassionate leadership earned her recognition as a trusted manager and mentor. In 2025, Amanda was promoted to Senior Manager of Utilization Management for Medicare Operations at CVS Health, where she now oversees large-scale clinical programs, drives operational improvements, and supports strategic initiatives that enhance care for Medicare members nationwide.
Dedicated to continuous growth, Amanda is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) at Capella University while holding a Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt certification. She is known for her strong management skills, collaborative style, and passion for improving healthcare delivery. In every role, Amanda brings a blend of clinical expertise, operational insight, and heartfelt leadership—grounded in the belief that healthcare works best when people are cared for with clarity, compassion, and respect.
• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification
• Capella University- M.S.N.
• Central Ohio Technical College- Associate's
• Scott Beery Humanitarian Award
• Behavioral Health Partners
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a deep commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care and a work ethic shaped by years of hands-on clinical experience. The support of my family, my faith, and the dedication of the teams I’ve been fortunate to lead have also played an essential role in helping me grow, adapt, and make a meaningful impact across every stage of my career.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering this industry to lead with compassion but also learn when to create healthy emotional boundaries, because caring deeply and protecting your own well-being must coexist in this work. And never underestimate the power of networking—many of the opportunities in my career began with a single conversation.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I see in the field right now is managing large clinical teams through persistent short-staffing, especially during high-volume seasons when patient needs don’t slow down. At the same time, the field offers the opportunity to strengthen systems, improve communication, and redesign workflows so patients still receive timely, safe care.
Another major challenge—and growth opportunity—is learning to balance the emotional heart of nursing with the objectivity required in utilization management; knowing when to lead with empathy and when to rely strictly on clinical criteria has been one of my most important lessons as a leader.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are compassion, service, and integrity—both in my professional work and personal life. I strive to honor these by supporting others, whether through healthcare leadership, education initiatives, or community programs like the Scott Beery Humanitarian Award.