Dr. Krista Cothron
Dr. Krista Cothron, DHA, is a seasoned healthcare operations strategy leader with over 17 years of experience in the industry. Currently serving at Optum, she focuses on delivering strategic solutions that drive efficiency, innovation, and patient-centered care. With an MBA in Health and Business Administration and a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration from Oklahoma State University, Krista combines academic excellence with practical expertise. She is also a proud member of Phi Kappa Phi and the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA), underscoring her commitment to continuous learning and professional leadership.
Beyond her strategic work, Krista is deeply invested in mentorship and professional development, consistently supporting colleagues and team members as they advance their skills in the medical field. Known as a collaborative leader, she prioritizes education and empowerment, ensuring that those around her are prepared to thrive in complex healthcare environments. Her ability to guide and inspire others has made her a trusted mentor and an influential voice in healthcare operations.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Krista is a devoted mother of four and a strong advocate for children’s healthcare needs. Inspired by her daughter’s journey with diabetes, she actively supports causes that bring awareness to gaps in pediatric healthcare access, including pushing for greater visibility at the congressional level. Her advocacy reflects both her personal and professional mission: to improve healthcare systems for the most vulnerable. Outside of work, she enjoys watching her daughters play travel softball and spending time with family.
• Oklahoma State University - DHA
• Bethel University, College of Professional Studies - MBA
• Tennessee State University – BSoc Sci
• Phi Kappa Phi
• National Honor Society
• AUPHA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, determination, and a lifelong commitment to learning. I have been fortunate to grow as a leader through the unwavering support of my family and the inspiration I draw from my children, who remind me daily of the importance of building a better healthcare system for future generations. At the same time, I credit my professional journey to a people first philosophy; focusing on compassion, collaboration, and removing barriers so teams can thrive. This balance of personal purpose and professional discipline has shaped my leadership and guided me toward creating meaningful impact in healthcare.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to lead with people, never stop learning, and always remember your why. I’ve learned that when you empower teams and put people first, the results follow. By staying curious and committed to growth, I continue to strengthen my leadership. Grounding every decision in “my why”, my family and the conviction that healthcare must improve for future generations, I remain focused on driving meaningful, lasting impact.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering healthcare is to believe in your voice, never stop learning, and build strong relationships. Confidence, curiosity, and collaboration will carry you far, and when you ground your work in purpose, you’ll not only achieve success but also leave a meaningful impact on the industry and the people it serves.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges in healthcare today is that our system is too often fragmented, complex, and inequitable, leaving patients and providers to carry unnecessary burdens. But within that challenge lies our greatest opportunity: to reimagine healthcare with equity, simplicity, and outcomes at the center. By embracing value-based care, leveraging data and technology, and leading with a patient first mindset, we can transform a broken system into one that truly serves patients, families, and future generations.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me both in my work and in my personal life are integrity, collaboration, and equity, anchored in resilience and family. I believe in leading with honesty and compassion, empowering others through teamwork, and ensuring fairness in every decision. At the same time, I draw strength from my family and community, knowing that the legacy I leave professionally and personally must help build a better, more equitable future for the next generation.
Locations
Optum
Lexington, TN 38351