Her Story
About Karla
Karla Cordova, PT, DPT, MBA-HCM, GCS, is a accomplished healthcare executive and rehabilitation professional serving as Administrator, Rehabilitation Medicine for Southern California and Hawaii (SCAL and HI) at Kaiser Permanente. With a career spanning clinical practice and healthcare administration, she brings extensive expertise in rehabilitation services, home health operations, and strategic leadership. She began her career as a physical therapist, inspired by her grandmother’s experience with diabetic complications and limited access to rehabilitation services. Karla earned her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from the University of Southern California, followed by an MBA in Healthcare Management from Western Governors University.
In her current leadership role, Karla oversees rehabilitation operations across Southern California and Hawaii, leading multidisciplinary teams and supporting high-quality patient care across hospital and Care at Home settings. Her responsibilities encompass budget management, clinical pathway development, workforce planning, hiring, position control, labor relations, regulatory compliance, and operational improvement. She has been instrumental in developing standardized workflows and protocols designed to improve consistency, efficiency, and patient outcomes. Her professional affiliations include the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) California chapter, and the National Association of Healthcare Executives. She is also committed to mentoring emerging leaders and fostering collaborative, high-performing teams.
Karla attributes her success to her father's example of hard work, perseverance, and building a strong foundation through decades of business leadership. She values curiosity, openness to change, humility, respect, faith, and maintaining a positive mindset, and encourages young women entering healthcare to surround themselves with a supportive network while staying focused on their goals. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Karla is passionate about community service, including participating in medical missions and supporting families affected by wildfires. Outside of work, she enjoys rollerblading, dancing, karaoke, and reading, reflecting her energetic personality and appreciation for staying active, creative, and connected with others.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Karla
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the strong work ethic and values my father instilled in me. After building and running a business for more than 40 years, he taught me the importance of working hard, establishing a strong foundation, and remaining committed to my goals. I also believe in the power of faith and maintaining a positive mindset, trusting that challenges can be overcome when I shift my perspective and approach each situation with purpose and optimism.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that feedback is a blessing. Every piece of feedback should be acknowledged because it provides an opportunity to learn, grow, and understand how others perceive you. I’ve also learned that perception can become reality, so it is important to be intentional about how I communicate, lead, and show up professionally. While constructive criticism can help identify areas for improvement, I believe it is equally important to recognize and build upon positive feedback and the strengths that contribute to continued success.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The best career advice I would give young women entering my industry is to build a strong professional and personal support network of people you can rely on for guidance, encouragement, and perspective. Surround yourself with individuals who believe in your potential and will support you through both challenges and successes. Most importantly, stay focused on your goals, remain committed to your vision, and trust that determination and perseverance will help you navigate obstacles and achieve the success you are working toward.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in healthcare right now is the responsible integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare operations and patient care. While there can be concerns, particularly among unions that fear technology may replace jobs, I believe AI can be a valuable tool for supporting healthcare professionals, improving efficiency, and enhancing the way we deliver services. Another significant challenge and opportunity is the rapidly growing geriatric population. As the demand for healthcare services for older adults continues to increase, we must rethink traditional approaches and adapt our operations, care models, and business strategies to effectively meet their evolving needs.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me are curiosity, humility, adaptability, and respect for others. I believe in always remaining curious and open to change, especially in a rapidly evolving field like healthcare. Humility is equally important to me—remembering where I came from, appreciating the people who have helped me along the way, and treating others with the same respect and compassion I would want for my own family. I also value being nimble and willing to adapt, recognizing that embracing change is essential to growing as a leader and effectively serving patients, teams, and communities.
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