Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP, is pleased to welcome Manatt Health Counsel Lauren Polak to its Los Angeles office. Leveraging nearly 18 years of experience at one of the nation’s leading academic medical centers, Polak closely collaborates with key health care stakeholders—including hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, medical foundations and other health care providers—to assist clients in developing strategic solutions that foster high-quality, safe care for patients.

Polak brings a deep and direct understanding of the overlap between clinical operations and legal and regulatory requirements, and she has a particular proficiency in medical staff law. She partners with physician leaders and executives on matters pertaining to medical staff credentialing, peer review, corrective action, governance and bylaws. Her collaborative and practical approach aims to promote high-quality patient care while ensuring that business interests are taken into account and legal requirements are met.

In addition to her medical staff background, Polak has experience in various other areas of health care law, including compliance, contracting, clinical research and clinical training. In the private sector, she has advised clients on acquisitions, fraud and abuse laws, the corporate practice of medicine, and corporate governance. Moreover, her counsel in a variety of health care litigation scenarios gives her a unique perspective and ability to guide clients and help them avoid potential liability as they navigate the constantly shifting health care landscape.

As the latest addition to Manatt Health, Polak further expands the group’s roster of legal and consulting professionals, which includes recent arrivals Thomas (Tom) Robertson, Edo Banach, Julia E. Smith, Nicholas (Nick) Bath Jr., Shelli Silver, Dr. Troyen (Troy) A. Brennan and Tracy A. Massel.

Polak received her J.D. from New York University School of Law and her B.S. in sociology from the University of California, Berkeley.