About Elaine Mitchell

At 19, Elaine secured her first job in the industry, serving as the medical secretary for an internist who had a specialty in cardiology. That physician mentored her, which increased her fascination with medicine.

At Truman College in Missouri, her initial interest in Zoology — bolstered by her fascination with human anatomy and physiology — developed into a progam of pre-Physical Therapy (the school didn’t offer PT as a major at the time). Transferring to NYU (New York University), she went on to receive her degree in Physical Therapy.

She began her career as a Physical Therapist in New York, then continued it after a move to San Diego.

Impressed by her work ethic and understanding of the medical field in general, a family practice with a specialty in Sports Medicine hired Elaine as office manager. Within a couple of years, she had taken over running the entire business, growing it from a one-man operation into a thriving practice. In that role, she developed her team into a well-oiled machine, not only performing efficiently but also imbued with esprit de corps.

When that practice was acquired by Graybill Medical Group, Elaine’s contribution was quickly noted — leading them to bring her on as Regional Manager. A few years later, the San Diego American Indian Health Center recruited her as Chief Operating Officer.

During Elaine’s tenure at SDAIHC, Graybill split off their practice management division to SmartCare, who quickly lured Elaine back as Director of Practice Management. During her tenure with SmartCare, she was invaluable to her clients’ practice management and recruiting efforts, as well as fulfilling their ongoing HR needs.

In 2023, Ms. Mitchell started her own consulting practice, using her experience and skillset to help independent physicians successfully recruit and manage their staff.