Spotlight Magellan allows coworkers to get to know one another by going beyond the surface level through facilitated discussions that delve into personal interests, experiences and aspirations. Through intentional engagement, Spotlight Magellan aims to cultivate a sense of community and camaraderie across our company, ultimately contributing to a more cohesive and fulfilling remote workplace culture.
This month, we’re getting to know Dr. Samuel Pullen, chief medical officer for the Idaho Behavioral Health Plan. Dr. Pullen has been with Magellan since April 2024.
Continue reading to learn more about Dr. Pullen:
Describe a typical workday in your life.
We have such a tremendous opportunity here in Idaho to improve access to high quality mental health and substance use treatment and services. I feel fortunate to have such great colleagues and because of the scope of the work, no day really feels typical. There are activities I routinely participate in to support and advanceour work. I participate in utilization management rounds and residential care rounds. Residential care rounds are led by me where initial and concurrent cases are presented for children being considered for residential care. This has been a topic of particular importance in Idaho over the last several years. I also work closely with our quality team, along with our Medical Director, Dr. Jonathan Harland. Together, we review critical incidents and cases where there might be a quality-of-care concern. I spend the rest of a typical day meeting with our clinical team during our morning huddles, meeting with providers addressing various issues, meeting with the state and working with other members of our senior leadership to ensure the successful implementation of the Idaho Behavioral Health Plan.
What are you currently reading?
I am currently reading A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking. I also recently finished reading Fevers, Feuds and Diamonds by Dr. Paul Farmer.
Do you have a favorite recipe you love to make (or have made for you)?
I have sweet tooth, and my kids have really gotten into baking. I am usually asking them to save me some cookie dough.
What is the farthest place you’ve traveled (or would like to travel to one day)?
Greece! My wife and I vacationed in Athens, Santorini and Mykonos. I would love to go to Africa one day and spend some time in Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya.
Who (dead or alive) inspires you and why?
Dr. Paul Farmer was (and still is) someone who inspired me. If you’ve ever watched the documentary Bending the Arc or read any of his books, it’s very hard not to come away inspired and also a feeling that we have an obligation to challenge the status quo and take action where we see a need.
Catch up on previous Spotlight Magellan articles to get to know your Magellan colleagues! Read all articles here.