the 2019 HME Woman of the Year in the fourth year of the VGM Group-sponsored contest.
Russalesi, who serves as the chief compliance officer at AdaptHealth, was awarded the prize during a ceremony at Medtrade in Atlanta this week. She has worked in the HME industry for 20 years and plays an integral role in the strategic direction, implementation and oversight of AdaptHealth’s corporate compliance programs.
“I feel so humbled to win this award,” Russalesi said. “The work I do and the HME industry are truly impactful to people throughout the country, and I’m honored to play my role.”
In addition to working as a durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics and supplies (DMEPOS) industry consultant, Russalesi has participated in numerous trade association councils and previously served as executive director of the Jersey Association of Medical Equipment Services. She remains an active member of the Health Care Compliance Association.
Finalists were chosen based on their implementation of new business processes, advocacy on behalf of the industry, community involvement and efforts to improve patients’ lives, among other criteria. Russalesi’s fellow finalists included Donna Cady, the managing director of Mercy Health St. Rita’s Medical Center; Deb Kalk, the CEO and president of Reliable Medical Supply; and Leigh Ann Mathews, ATP, CRTS of Complete Care Stores.
“Each finalist has had an incredible year advocating for our industry and our patients, and each one of them is deserving of this award,” Russalesi said. “I’m grateful to have been selected and share in their company.”
VGM CEO Mike Mallaro presented the award to Russalesi.
“Everyone is better off when smart, passionate leaders advocate for the industry and who champion doing things the right way,” Mallaro said. “Wendy has done that relentlessly. She epitomizes what we, as an industry, look like on our best day.”