Lisa Mahlum

I attribute my success to a strong sense of self-belief and a proactive approach to professional growth. Without the benefit of formal mentorship, I relied on my own initiative and determination to deepen my understanding of the insurance industry. I recognized early on that opportunities to learn and improve are always present, and acting on that awareness has been instrumental in shaping my career. When I was asked to review denied billing, I went beyond simply questioning the outcome. Instead, I took deliberate steps to expand my knowledge by pursuing formal education and earning relevant certifications. That commitment to understanding the “why” behind challenges allowed me to develop a deeper skill set and ultimately discover my passion within the industry. I believe that trusting one’s instincts, combined with a willingness to take initiative, plays a critical role in achieving success. Throughout my career, I have gained experience across the insurance, provider, and payment integrity sectors. This diverse perspective has given me a comprehensive understanding of how each component of the process impacts the others, further strengthening my ability to contribute meaningfully and drive effective outcomes.

One of the most valuable pieces of career advice Lisa has embraced is to believe in herself and not wait for others to create opportunities on her behalf. She has learned that taking initiative, maintaining curiosity, and continuously seeking knowledge beyond her current role can open doors that might otherwise remain closed. Throughout her 30-year career, this self-driven mindset has enabled her to grow from a receptionist to a highly respected Senior Auditor. Her journey reflects the impact of confidence, determination, and a commitment to lifelong learning, demonstrating how these qualities can serve as powerful catalysts for professional success.

My advice is simple: believe in yourself. Confidence, paired with initiative, can take you further than you might expect. Take the time to seek out resources, conduct research, and actively pursue opportunities to further your education in the areas that interest you. Today, there are more resources than ever—whether through certifications, career pathways, or mentorship opportunities. Since earning my first certification, I have had the privilege of mentoring others, which has been both rewarding and eye-opening. It reinforced my belief in the importance of supporting one another and continuing to grow both personally and professionally. Trusting your instincts is also critical. When combined with initiative and self-belief, it can guide you toward meaningful opportunities. If you have the desire, the mindset, and the willingness to develop your skills, the opportunities will be there. In today’s work environment—particularly with the prevalence of remote roles—it is essential to maintain focus and discipline. Success requires the ability to dedicate your time and attention fully to your work, minimizing distractions and staying committed throughout your day. Finally, there has never been a better time for women to pursue growth and advancement. The opportunities available today are vast, and with the right mindset and determination, they are truly within reach.

One of the primary challenges within the industry is the emphasis on experience. Newly certified coders or auditors may encounter more difficulty securing opportunities compared to seasoned professionals. However, I believe the industry is evolving in this regard. Many organizations are beginning to recognize that certifications reflect a strong foundation of knowledge and skill, and they are placing greater value on competency alongside experience. There are companies willing to invest in newly certified professionals, particularly those who demonstrate dedication, capability, and a willingness to learn. My advice is to remain diligent and persistent in your job search. Continue applying, refining your approach, and pursuing opportunities, as there is a consistent demand for skilled auditors and coders. This field offers long-term stability, as the need for experienced professionals will continue to grow. While technology, including AI, may support the work we do, it cannot fully replace the expertise and critical thinking required in auditing and coding. Additionally, the expansion of remote work has created significant opportunities across the industry. Professionals now have the flexibility to work from home, eliminating the need for travel and broadening access to positions nationwide. This is especially valuable for individuals seeking work-life balance and greater career accessibility. Finally, there are tremendous opportunities available for women across the industry. Whether in auditing, coding, or related fields, the potential for growth and advancement is substantial. With focus, persistence, and confidence, these opportunities are well within reach.

The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are work-life balance, trust, self-belief, focus, and the drive to succeed. I believe that maintaining balance is essential to long-term success and overall well-being. In today’s remote work environment, focus and discipline are especially critical. I prioritize staying fully engaged during my workday, ensuring that I can dedicate my time and attention to producing high-quality results. This level of commitment not only supports productivity but also builds trust with my team and leadership. I also strongly value believing in myself and maintaining the confidence to take initiative. Coupled with a strong work ethic, this mindset has helped me navigate challenges and continue growing professionally. Ultimately, these values—balance, trust, focus, and drive—have been key to my ability to remain effective, adaptable, and fulfilled in my career.