The 2022 Women Leaders in Consulting: Mara McDermott

Mara is an accomplished health care policy executive who provides strategic advice on a broad range of federal legislative, regulatory and policy issues, including Medicare, value-based care, digital health and other areas. Mara also assists clients in their interactions with Congress and the administration to help advance their business and thought leadership goals. Mara is frequently invited to speak at premier national events and has been featured with industry leaders on discussion panels, sharing her advanced knowledge and experience on policy issues facing health care industry clients.

In addition to consulting and lobbying services, Mara convenes advocacy coalitions, bringing together like-minded organizations to advance shared objectives. These groups help to advance policy change by coalescing health care stakeholders and implementing strategic advocacy plans.

Previously, Mara served as the senior vice president of federal affairs and head of the Washington, DC office at America's Physician Groups (formerly the California Association of Physician Groups, CAPG), a professional association representing medical groups and independent practice associations practicing in capitated, coordinated care models. Before that,

Mara worked as an attorney in the health law practice of another large law firm, focusing on regulatory issues facing physician groups, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies and academic medical institutions.

What do you consider your greatest personal or professional achievement?

My greatest professional achievements have been the policy victories we have achieved in value-based care during the pandemic. Value based care payment and delivery models create a better patient experience, reducing fragmentation and encouraging more care coordination. During the pandemic, that has been more important than ever. It's been such a rewarding time to be a health care lobbyist to advance policies that improve patient outcomes.

What advice would you give to a female consultant just beginning her career?

Nurture your network. So much of my work and my achievements have come from a network of strong, like-minded women. Build those relationships early and do the work to keep them.

What's the best advice—personal or professional—you've ever received?

The best advice I've ever received is from my dad – it doesn't matter where you go, it only matters what you do once you get there. He told me that when I was choosing a college, but I still think it applies to almost everything!

What does being honored as a Woman Leader in Consulting mean to you?

This recognition is a wonderful acknowledgment of the work of my team who supports me in everything I do.