The People Behind the Numbers Spotlight: Patti Kulp, Review Consultant

Patti Kulp RHIA, CSS, CDIP Review Consultant AHIMA Approved ICD-10 CM/PCS Trainer

As we prepare to celebrate our upcoming anniversary, the HIA family has been reflecting on 25 incredible years of service.

It’s no doubt that our “people behind the numbers,” (PBTN) are what set HIA apart.

For a quarter of a century, we’ve been recruiting, training and supporting the most dedicated staff around.

Patti Kulp is the epitome of such dedication. Patti came on board, in August 1994, as one of the company’s first team members. Her commitment and expertise are second-to-none.

So, it only seemed fitting to interview one of HIA’s first coders for our first-ever PBTN Spotlight:

HJ: What is your job title and how long have you worked at HIA?

PK: I’m a Review Consultant. I’ve been with HIA for 23 years! I was one of the first employees at HIA. Betsy [Bailey] and I went to MCV (Medical College of Virginia) together. After graduating, I went to work for Ernst & Young for three years. I remember being wooed by Betsy to jump ship and join this new consulting company, Health Information Associates, which she and her Dad were starting together. It wasn’t a very difficult decision to make. I was tired of traveling all the time with EY and I was intrigued by the challenge of helping to grow a business from the ground up. It’s been 23 years since I joined the HIA family and I haven’t looked back since.

HJ: What makes you stay? What sets HIA apart?

PK: The educational resources we are provided at HIA are second to none in the industry! The personal benefits are great too. I like being able to work from home so I can be more involved with my kids. Betsy and her executive team truly understand the importance of a healthy work/life balance. Even though most of us work remotely, HIA does a great job keeping everyone feeling connected, valued, and supported. It feels more like a family than a corporation. My co-workers and I all look forward to seeing one another at our “family reunions.”

HJ: Name one professional skill that you’ve learned or improved upon over the years working at HIA.

PK: I’ve become VERY detail-oriented. It’s crucial in our industry.

HJ: OK, now is the part of the interview where I get to ask you some fun questions to understand who you are “behind the numbers.”

So, you mentioned having children. How many do you have?

PK: Three daughters: Erin, Natalie, and Caroline

HJ: What kind of things to do you like to do together?

PK: We are all athletic and prefer to be outdoors; biking, swimming, running, playing tennis, and skiing are a few of the activities we enjoy doing together. I am a competitive Swimmer and Strokes Judge.

HJ: I was going to ask if you are an early bird or night owl. But I’m guessing if you are a swimmer you must get up pretty early?

PK: Oh yeah, I’m an early bird, for sure. Nothing satisfies me more than knowing I worked hard and got the job done so I can get outside and enjoy some R&R.

HJ: Speaking of R&R, where is the most memorable place you’ve visited?

PK: Belize. The water is beautiful and the diving is great.

HJ: What is your favorite sound?

PK: The Ocean.

HJ: Hmmm…Swimming, Belize, the Ocean…I’m picking up a theme here! (Laughing) Good thing HIA is headquartered on the SC coast!

Ok, last question…

If you could be any fictional character, who would you be?

PK: I like Winnie-the-Pooh. He’s so lovable and laid back. He hasn’t a care in the world.

HJ: Gosh, I would have guessed the Little Mermaid! (Laughing)

But I can see why you picked Winne-the-Pooh. “Laid back and lovable.” I think Winnie was a pretty loyal friend, too. That sounds an awful lot like you, Patti. Good choice.