Phaedra Kunze

Director of Palliative Care and Business Services @ The Elizabeth Hospice

About

I was drawn to the healthcare sector early in my career and soon recognized how my strengths could make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Through my advanced skill set in strategic planning, innovation, driving operational excellence, and building networks, I have contributed to the growth, profitability, and success of the organizations I've served. My work is grounded in empathy and integrity, but measured by results, improved outcomes, streamlined processes, stronger partnerships, and increased satisfaction across patients, providers, and internal teams. I thrive in roles that blend strategy with service, where continuous improvement and compassionate care can coexist to create lasting impact I've learned many valuable lessons during my career, but one stands above all: It is not only about the care we provide, but how we make people FEEL. When someone is ill or vulnerable, they need more than treatment- they need respect, validation, and the reassurance that they are seen, valued, and loved. This belief continues to guide me in every professional endeavor, shaping how I build relationships, lead teams, and advocate for patients and families by prioritizing service excellence.

Country

United States

City

Fallbrook

Industry

Hospital & Health Care

Skill

Windows, Healthcare Consulting, Financial Modeling, Ancillary Services, Performance Metrics, Financial Management, Interpersonal Communication, Client Relations, program operations, Budget Management, Staff Oversight, Expansion Strategy, Community Engagement, stategic planning, Provider Relations, Contract Negotiation, risk mitigation, cost optimization, Vendor Management, insurance contract

Experience

Director of Palliative Care and Business Services

The Elizabeth Hospice

2017-7 - 2025-3 · 7 yrs 9 mos

Escondido, CA

• Directed daily operations and administrative oversight of the Palliative Care program. • Developed strategic alliances with community partners to improve access to services. • Oversaw agency contract functions. • Revitalized a non-profitable department, losing over one million dollars annually, delivering sustained revenue and census growth within one year. • Revamped the structure of the palliative care program, resulting in a significant increase in hospice revenue, with referrals generating nearly two million dollars in the first year of implementation. • Supervised a multidisciplinary clinical team promoting excellence through quality and productivity standards. • Managed annual budgets and financial forecasts to enhance profitability and operational accountability.

Director of Business Development

The Elizabeth Hospice

2009-9 - 2017-6 · 7 yrs 10 mos

Escondido, CA

• Pioneered the creation of the Business Development Department, prioritizing strategic growth. • Reorganized the existing Admissions, Intake Center, Contract Management, Marketing, and Sales teams, resulting in improved customer satisfaction and profitability. • Managed a multimillion-dollar operating budget and directed a team of 75 employees. • Increased patient census by over 80% and profits by over 18% within two years through innovative outreach initiatives, ensuring sustainable expansion, while enhancing service capacity and access.

Contracts Manager

The Elizabeth Hospice

2001-8 - 2008-12 · 7 yrs 5 mos

Escondido, CA

• Administered health plan and vendor contract procurement, including amendments, NDA's, BAA's and LOA's. • Mitigated legal, financial, and regulatory risk through strategic contract management. • Collaborated with cross-functional departments to bridge silos, support internal contract needs and to ensure contract compliance and audit support. • Significantly reduced vendor costs (i.e., pharmacy, DME, medical supplies, ambulance) while increasing health plan reimbursement rates and expanding the agency's network.