Laqueda Bell serves as the Director of Medical Management for Aetna Better Health of Texas.

In her role, she manages the daily operations of the medical management and utilization review teams while overseeing the development and implementation of all clinical utilization improvement processes.

Laqueda has worked in a variety of positions throughout her seven years with Aetna Better Health of Texas. These positions include clinical training consultant, supervisor and manager of the perinatal care management program. Previously, Laqueda worked as a nurse in neonatal and labor and delivery/postpartum units. This combination of direct, hands-on patient care and clinical management experience allows Laqueda to understand the full cycle of the health care delivery process.

"Building relationships with our members is critical – we have to understand what our members need. Once we understand these needs, we can make improvements that directly impact their access to care,” Laqueda said.

To this day, Laqueda still gets notes and letters from members whose lives she touched while working in perinatal care. It’s this connection that keeps her motivated.

Laqueda earned her Bachelors of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington. She is a licensed registered nurse and holds certifications in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and neonatal resuscitation.