Laurel Highlands - PA

Kirsten Held, Executive Director, PharmD, BCPS

Kirsten brings more than 10+ years of experience in healthcare to the role. She began her career at Conemaugh as a pharmacy practice resident and led the Primary Care Resource Center (PCRC) for 5 years which provides a broad range of primary care ancillary services, with an emphasis on coordinating care for patients with complex chronic disease states. Kirsten served on multiple committees aimed at reducing readmissions and improving quality of patient care. Her collaboration with internal and external team members to support value-based initiatives has been paramount to the success of these programs to-date. Being a Johnstown native, Kirsten has a strong desire and commitment to serving our patients, providers, and communities.

Elliot L. Smith, MD, Medical Director

Elliot is responsible for providing clinical leadership to APLH’s physician network of primary care and specialty providers.  This includes oversight of the development and implementation of the clinical integration processes to improve a coordinated care model.  During his over 25-year clinical career, his accomplishments have always arisen from a focus on provider engagement to improve quality performance and patient experience.  Collaboration and physician directed care processes are the root of his passion for improving the health and wellbeing of not only patients, but every member of the healthcare team.

Elliot is board-certified in Internal Medicine by the ABIM.  Prior to his current role with APLH, he served as President of Physician Groups and Chief Quality Officer for Butler Health System and was actively involved in the formation and governance of a large Accountable Care Organization and Clinically Integrated Network in the greater Pittsburgh area for five years.  As a Johnstown native, he is very familiar with the local community and its health challenges.