Leadership Journey in Allergy Biologics and Practice Management

Narrative

Where It All Began

My name is Laura Pleasants, I am a Director of Billing and Biologics. My story started a long, long time ago.

I was born and raised in Lynchburg, Va. I had my first anaphylaxis reaction when I was only 4 years old from a wasp sting, this started my allergy journey. Rushed to the hospital I was given epi and sent home with a referral to an allergist.

From Patient to Practitioner: The Biologics Story Begins

Fast forward 30 years, I went to work for my allergist, Dr. Robert Miles. He and his wife Bonnie ran the only allergy practice in Lynchburg for 30 years. From these two, I learned what I needed to start my career in allergy and asthma! Xolair had just been approved and our office was doing a trial for Genentech and that is where the biologics story begins. Starting at the front desk, I worked my way up.

Dr. Miles retired in 2004, at a College meeting, Dr. Miles met Dr. Joey Lane, who wanted to open an allergy office in Lynchburg. Allergy Partners of Lynchburg was born in 2009. I was the Practice Administrator, also handling the biologics as well. This is where I started being noticed for my talents in the buy and bill world.

A New Chapter: Growing the Practice in Maryland

I moved to Maryland in 2018 where my next chapter began; the first Allergy office I worked started with 200 buy and bill patients that I grew into 800 before leaving to advance my career to where I am now.

National Leadership and Advocacy

I have served on the ACAAI as a member of the Biologics committee as well and the Practice Management committee over the last 15 years. I have also spoken at the college as well as for various Pharma companies. I also serve on multiple advocacy boards for different biologics where I am able to spread my knowledge and help grow the brands.

Anyone that knows me knows that I love to help others and make a difference in the allergy world. I truly love my work; you know what they say: if you love what you do you don’t work a day in your life!

“Growing My Brain”: A Philosophy of Lifelong Learning

I have always been known for “growing my brain”, what does that mean? I love to learn something new every day!