Prior to joining Kaiser Permanente in 1979, Judy Coffey worked as an RN and as an EMT while still in nursing school. But when she joined Kaiser, things really took off. “I began my career with Kaiser Permanente as a staff floor nurse at the San Rafael Medical Center,” she says. “Since then, I’ve served as nursing services supervisor, director of support services, medical group administrator at Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa and, since 2004, I’ve been in my present role as senior vice president/area manager for Kaiser Permanente’s Marin-Sonoma service area.
These days, Coffey is “responsible for optimizing performance—quality, service and affordability—of both the San Rafael and Santa Rosa hospitals [serving almost 250,000 members].”
It’s a role you could say she was born into: “I’m the oldest of nine siblings, which actually had a lot to do with my becoming a nurse. My mom hated dealing with cuts and bruises, so I did. I also grew up working in a family-run business, so I’ve always remembered providing people the best service is number one. Plus, I enjoy being around and helping others.”
Are you a good patient?
Luckily, I haven’t been a patient other than for the births of my five children—and yes, I was always very compliant.
Do you believe in miracles?
Absolutely! Being involved both personally and professionally in the medical arena, I’ve seen many happy outcomes that could have only been the result of a miracle.
What do you love to do outside of work?
I work indoors all the time, so I love to get outdoors as much as possible. I love hiking and have run both full and half marathons for good causes—not for fun. I grew up in a family of volunteers and what we did in the evenings and on weekends was volunteer our free time to the community. My passion for community involvement and making a difference truly runs deep.
I also love dancing with my husband, Harry, sharing fun times with my grandchildren and having people come to visit. Our house is always open, and I enjoy having lots of people coming and going. It’s fun to play host and be social with friends and family from near and far.
Describe one of your happiest life moments.
Two come to mind: First, spending time with my youngest daughter, Alexa. She was born with a heart condition, so every day we spent together was extra special.
Second, traipsing through Italy and France on vacation. Everything about those trips was awesome—the art, food, people and especially the history! Our country has such a young culture in comparison. I even toured a 300-year-old hospital that’s still in operation.
Describe your favorite pair of shoes.
Anything with a heel! I love jewelry and clothes—especially shoes. I’ve been known to buy a pair of shoes to build an outfit around.
Of all the places in the world, where would you choose to live (besides the North Bay)?
Prague is rich with history and is where my family is from. All of my grandparents were born there.
What spells adventure for you?
I really enjoy hiking, but an adventure is camping with seven grandchildren!
What remedy for the common cold works best for you?
Getting a little bit of sunshine and Vitamin C.
What was the last book you read?
I’ve read numerous leadership books, some I’d recommend and others I wouldn’t. The last book I read for fun was The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follet, and I highly recommend it. I also just read Parents Behaving Badly by Scott Gummer about parents who misbehave at their children’s sporting events.
What’s the nicest thing you’ve ever smelled?
A newborn baby.
How would you describe the perfect day?
In the sun surrounded by family and friends.
What’s your most prized or sentimental possession?
My most prized possession is a little box of “Why I Love Yous” from my daughter, Alexa, who passed away.
What’s your favorite song to sing?
I have two. One is “Happy Together” by The Turtles and the other is “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan, which I always listen to when I run.
What’s your secret vice food?
Dark chocolate. It’s good for you.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in life, and who taught it to you?
My father always said, “Attitude, not aptitude, will get you altitude.”
