Employee Spotlight: Michael Navarro, Administrative Employee of the Quarter Winner
Congratulations to our Administrative Employee of the Quarter winner Michael Navarro, Associate Group Practice Manager at VA Loma Linda Healthcare System.
Navarro was recognized in the Fourth Quarter of 2024 for his outstanding efforts, leadership and excellence in reviewing productivity, access, capacity and efficiency metrics for clinical services.
“I appreciate having the everyday opportunity to create innovative ways to deliver quality and attainable healthcare,” said Navarro, a ten-year U.S. Navy Fleet Marine Force Corpsman Veteran. “Our Veterans chose to put their life on the line for our country, and this is my way of giving back to our Veteran community.”
Navarro supports VA Loma Linda’s mission, answering the call to make lives better today than yesterday, by providing exceptional expertise in process improvement and actively sharing his knowledge with colleagues.
“Winning Employee of the Quarter is an honor and humbling,” said Navarro, who acknowledged the outstanding contributions and collaboration of his VA colleagues. “VA Loma Linda can only achieve the biggest accomplishments as a united front, and it feels awe-inspiring to be a part of this team. I may have been selected as Employee of the Quarter, but I would be remiss to not mention the amazing team that helped me along the way.”
Recently, Navarro worked to enhance Mental Health services, addressing new patient wait times and productivity levels. He collaborated with supervisors and administrative staff to implement effective clinic management tactics and co-led a Rapid Improvement Event on grid management. Navarro’s dedication resulted in reducing wait times from over 30 days to an impressive average of 8 days, establishing VA Loma Linda as a leader in Veteran access for VHA’s Desert Pacific Healthcare Network (VISN 22). He also trains peers in best practices and maintains ongoing support with follow-ups to ensure success.
“Navarro’s contributions have greatly benefitted the Chief of Staff’s Group Practice Management department and inspired his colleagues to stay proactive,” said Marleena Murphy, Supervisory Group Practice Manager at VA Loma Linda Healthcare System. “His willingness to take on roles typically held by service leadership and facilitate communication across various departments showcases his commitment to providing accessible, exceptional and personalized care for America’s Veterans.”
Thank you for going above and beyond to answer the call, Michael Navarro!