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The Challenges & Opportunities For National Multi-State Non-Profit Specialty Provider Organizations: The C-Suite Perspective
Join our panel of industry leaders as they discuss the impact of current market trends, proven strategies for organizational growth, and innovative approaches to optimizing performance in the new year with Monica E. Oss, Chief Executive Officer at OPEN MINDS.
David Guth
David Guth is the Chief Executive Officer at Centerstone, a nonprofit health system specializing in mental health and substance use disorder treatments. As Chief Executive Officer, Guth leads all areas of the organization, including quality of client care, strategies for growth, standards for operational excellence, and delivering strong financial performance.
Guth has more than 40 years of health care leadership and has served as Centerstone’s Chief Executive Officer since 1992. Under his leadership, the organization has grown from $6M in revenues and 300 staff serving 2,000 individuals to revenues of $278M and 3,800 staff serving more than 140,000 people each year.
Guth has served on the Board of Directors for many notable organizations, including Triad Learning, the Executive Committee of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention, and the Board for University of Tennessee’s College of Social Work. He is highly-regarded in the industry and has received many recognitions, including the National Council Visionary Leadership award, Nashville Business Journal’s Health Care Power Leaders Award, and the Douglas Henry Award for Service to Children and Families at Risk from the University of Tennessee’s College of Social Work. Guth also works as an industry consultant, primarily in the area of affiliations, mergers, and acquisitions. The National Council for Behavioral Health published Guth’s book on mergers, “Strategic Unions: A Marriage Guide to Healthy Not-for-Profit Mergers.”
Guth graduated from Vanderbilt University with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and from the University of Tennessee with his master’s degree in social work administration and planning.
Simona Cataldo
Born and raised in Italy, Dr. Simona Cataldo is an experienced executive with a multicultural background and the ability to drive change and lead execution in fast-paced environments. She has over 20 years of clinical and administrative experience in the non-profit industry, both in mental health and traditional healthcare.
Dr. Cataldo describes herself as a mom, a wife, a leader, and a traveler. She is committed to her own lifelong development as a leader and believes that good leaders are first good humans. Her goal is to be a positive influence in the world by being an authentic and compassionate leader and teaching others what she has learned in her own journey of serving and developing people and organizations.
Dr. Cataldo currently serves as Chief Executive Officer for Victor, a partnership of two non-profit organizations offering specialty mental health services in community-based settings, residential treatment, and foster care and adoption services throughout California. Victor has a consolidated budget of over $100 M.
Shar Najafi-Piper, Ph.D.
A clinical psychologist, Dr. Najafi-Piper has expertise in fully integrated continuums of care for complex-needs individuals and believes in a whole-person health care model that supports successful outcomes.
In leadership roles since 2008, she has also demonstrated notable talent and skill on the business side of the health and human services industry. This ranges from the implementation of quality assurance functions, peer review, utilization review, as well as service and clinical protocols. In addition, Dr. Najafi-Piper has demonstrated success in the areas of program development, contract development/negotiations, public relations, media development, and business growth through revenue diversification including both traditional and non-traditional sources.
Most recently, Dr. Najafi-Piper led in the creation of the first behavioral health Accountable Care Organization (ACO) in Maricopa County. Consisting of six multi-disciplinary providers, the ACO works collaboratively to reduce gaps in care and provide better outcomes while reducing the overall cost of providing services.
Patrick Maynard, Ph.D.
Dr. Patrick Maynard is an expert in managing publicly funded services. He is a champion of the social-entrepreneurial model, which encourages collaboration, drives continuous improvement, and improves service delivery for social service organizations.
Like many psychology graduates, Dr. Patrick Maynard assumed he would spend his career helping people one at a time by providing therapy in a one-on-one environment. However, just as he was launching his career, the movement to deinstitutionalize government-run mental health facilities was taking place across the country. Dr. Maynard immediately recognized both the potential and the pitfalls of that movement, and a lifelong passion was born.
Over his three decades of service to people with complex needs, Dr. Maynard has honed a talent for revitalizing struggling or stagnant nonprofit organizations— infusing them with new energy and putting them on a path to growth and sustainability. He excels at examining challenges from a macro perspective while keeping in mind the unique needs of the individual seeking services.
When Dr. Maynard first arrived at Boundless, the organization had an annual budget of approximately $25 million and only served adults in Central Ohio. Fast-forward five years, Boundless is now a $90-million family of nonprofit companies serving thousands of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and behavioral health challenges throughout Ohio.
A self-described natural optimist, Dr. Maynard’s biggest reward comes from seeing the positive impact on the people served by Boundless. One of his favorite stories is of a young man who came to Boundless with multiple needs, requiring round-the-clock care of many staff. A year later, that same young man attended a picnic with his family and was tearing up the dance floor in obvious joy. “That young man will stay in my memory forever,” says Dr. Maynard.
A native of Wooster, OH, Dr. Maynard graduated from The Ohio State University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, completed a master’s degree from Pepperdine University in community and clinical psychology. He later completed his PhD at Ohio University in applied behavioral sciences and educational leadership while serving as superintendent of the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Dr. Maynard has completed post-doctoral work on organizational change and government affairs from The Kennedy School at Harvard University. He was named president & CEO of I Am Boundless, Inc., and the Boundless family of companies in 2015.
Joe Dan Beavers, CPA, MHA
Joe Dan Beavers is the President/CEO of LifeSkills, Inc. a community mental health center based in Bowling Green, Kentucky. LifeSkills was founded in 1966 and serves over 26,000 individuals each year through mental health, substance use disorder and intellectual and developmental disabilities programs. In January of 2020 LifeSkills and the Pennyroyal Center merged, creating one of Kentucky’s largest community mental health centers. Later that year, LifeSkills helped lead the formation of the Community Health Network of Kentucky (CHN). CHN includes LifeSkills, Pennyroyal Center and three additional community mental health centers in the Commonwealth. Together CHN supports over 64,000 individuals annually through 55 programs across rural Kentucky. Joe Dan has a BS in Accounting from Western Kentucky University, a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration from the University of Kentucky and is a Certified Public Accountant.
The Changing Issues Faced By CFOs Managing Specialty Acute Care
Acute care services play an important role in the continuum of health care services – treating and stabilizing individuals experiencing brief but severe episodes of illness. But the financial challenges of these services have become challenging, as evidenced by the daily announcement of acute care provider bankruptcies and consolidations. The challenges are many – worker shortages, rising costs for pharmaceuticals and supplies, payer driven reduced payer stays, and stagnant reimbursement rates. Future financial sustainability requires an understanding of market drivers and strategies to reengineer the business model. This session will focus on:
- Understanding the changing role of acute care services
- Tactics for addressing workforce and price increase pressures
- Integrating acute care services with value-based reimbursement
Matt Kuhlman, CPA
Matt joined Cenikor Foundation in 2002 as Business Manager and has been promoted several times after years of dedication and involvement. Matt is currently the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Cenikor and has more than 15 years of financial and not-for-profit management experience. Matt graduated from Sam Houston State University with a Bachelors in Business Administration, with an emphasis in Accounting and he received his CPA licensure in August of 2016.
Greg Santilli, CPA, CIA
Greg P. Santilli, CPA, CIA, was appointed Chief Financial Officer in February 2021 and is responsible for all finances of Hillsides and its affiliate Bienvenidos. Prior to this role, Greg was the Director of Accounting and Financial Reporting for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, and before that, he was the Chief Financial Officer for New Horizons: Serving Individuals with Special Needs.
Greg brings to Hillsides extensive for-profit and nonprofit experience across multiple industries. This experience includes financial reporting and analysis, financial planning, budgeting and forecasting, internal auditing, treasury management, and staff member participation in nonprofit finance, development, strategic planning, facilities, and risk management committees.
After losing his only sibling brother to suicide in 2005, Greg became a staunch mental health advocate. He is an Advisory Board Member for Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services’ Survivor After Suicide (SAS) Program, is a trained co-facilitator for the SAS program, and attends monthly SAS drop-in meetings to provide newer survivors of suicide loss with a sense of hope and purpose. Greg’s mental health and suicide prevention commitment includes congressional advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C. while he was a board member of the Los Angeles Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Greg has a strong commitment to community service, which includes being a former member of the Los Angeles Catholic Archdiocesan Finance Council and former Finance Council Chair at Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church in Santa Clarita for eight years where he led a capital campaign that resulted in the construction of the second-largest Catholic church in the Los Angeles Archdiocese; and former Treasurer and Board Member of the Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry for four years.
Greg holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, Option in Accounting from California State University, Northridge, and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in California. He also holds a Certified Internal Auditor designation. In 2017 he was recognized with the CFO of the Year designation by the San Fernando Valley Business Journal.
Dee Dewitt
Dee DeWitt has extensive experience as a consultant and corporate leader in the healthcare field. Mr. DeWitt brings over 28 years of experience in healthcare finance and operations, M&A, use of technology, strategic planning, and change management in healthcare organizations to OPEN MINDS as a Senior Associate.
Previously, Mr. DeWitt was the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Momentum For Health, a CARF-accredited non-profit behavioral health organization providing services to individuals with a diagnosed serious mental illness (SMI) and/or substance abuse disorder, in San Jose, California. During his tenure, Mr. DeWitt increased outpatient productivity by 25% and contributed to growing revenues from $55 million to a projected $71+ million for the fiscal year of 2023. Mr. DeWitt also oversaw Momentum ‘s pilot with Santa Clara County’s transition to Netsmart Provider Connect and led a successful grant award and implementation of a multi-year paid intern program in partnership with Santa Clara University, San Jose University, and Palo Alto University.
Mr. DeWitt was also the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Veridian Financial Group, a strategic consulting firm specializing in performing long-term, on-site C-level and Director roles, evaluating and implementing financial strategies, strategic operational planning, and development strategies for companies that are poised for significant growth, change, or require turnaround attention, in San Jose, California. During his time at Veridian Financial Group, Mr. DeWitt focused primarily on healthcare, finance, technology, and private equity and coordinated licensing, compliance, and external audits for 42 state licenses, including managed care organizations, managed care plans, Medicare, Medicaid, and service provider organizations.
In addition, Mr. DeWitt served as Chief Financial Officer and a Consultant in Strategic Planning and Finance for Home Recovery – Home Aid, Inc., a private equity-backed, for-profit company that provides personal care and skilled care in 35 locations and in-home care throughout Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. During his time there, Mr. DeWitt was a member of the company’s executive management team, audit team, and License & Compliance team. Mr. DeWitt also served as Chief Financial Officer of Professional Healthcare Resources, Inc., a for-profit holding company comprised of 5 home health companies, 4 hospice companies, and 2 private duty/personal care companies. Mr. DeWitt has also been the Chief Financial and Technology Officer for The Filson, a nationally renowned non-profit archive and research institute, and Director of Strategic Development for Signature Healthcare, LLC, a national private equity-backed for-profit, long-term care company operating over 180 facilities, with 18,000 employees, and over $1 billion in revenues.
Mr. DeWitt also held the positions of Deputy Director of Behavioral Health at the County of Ventura, CA Behavioral Health Services Department, and Director of Finance and Management Services of the Southeastern Arizona Behavioral Health Services (SEABHS), a joint commissioned accredited non-profit.
Mr. DeWitt graduated from the University of Louisville, Kentucky with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and a Master’s in Political Science with a concentration in Economics and Public Policy.
It’s Time To Play Offense: Use Innovation As A Strategy To Differentiate Your Business
Sponsored By: 
How do you grow and differentiate your business in an increasingly competitive market? Join Carmen Cantero, Quality Improvement Advisor, Citrus Health Network, as she discusses the strategies that have powered her organization’s success. Joining her will be David Strocchia, SVP & Managing Director of Human Services at Netsmart. Together, they’ll explore ways to plan for longevity and expansion, leveraging technology and innovation as a secret weapon for recruitment, retention, service line diversification, revenue cycle optimization, and increased market share.
In this presentation, you’ll learn:
- The importance of data to drive decision-making and business intelligence
- How advanced automation can attract the right workforce and help them work at the top of their skill set, staying true to your organization’s mission
- The need for a single platform that integrates with the entirety of the healthcare ecosystem
- Tips for remaining competitive, deploying extremely usable technology to meet diverse needs, and invest in your growth
- The importance of basing services on client needs and learning how to innovate in order to meet them
- A template for developing educational programs to support workforce needs as you continue to grow
*Enjoy assorted granola bars during this session!
Rob Hickernell
Rob Hickernell, M.B.A. brings over 20 years of web site development and maintenance, digital marketing and reporting, data analytics, and conversion attribution experience to the OPEN MINDS team. Mr. Hickernell currently serves as a Senior Associate, leading projects related to website development and maintenance, digital marketing, website reporting, data analytics and conversion attribution and web site optimization, acquisition and retention.
Prior to joining OPEN MINDS Mr. Hickernell served as a Digital Marketing and Strategy Consultant for Live Oak Associates, LLC. In this role, Mr. Hickernell served as a consultant and advisor to digital B2B and B2C companies, creating and executing digital marketing strategies (search, social, mobile) by using data insights and analysis to solve business challenges.
Prior to serving as Digital Marketing and Strategy Consultant for Live Oak Associates, LLC, Hickernell served as Vice President, Search for AOL, Inc. in Dulles, VA. In this role Mr. Hickernell was responsible for strategic partnership management (Google, Bing), business development, revenue growth and data analytics of AOL’s search business which incorporates web/site search and content distribution across global web and mobile properties.
Previously, Mr. Hickernell served as the Director/ Sr. Director of Product Management for AOL, Inc. During his tenure Mr. Hickernell was the product marketing leader of AOL Search with focus on marketing partnerships, analytics and site optimization to drive revenue and traffic growth.
Mr. Hickernell has also served in a variety of other roles with AOL, Inc. including Principal Business Planning Manager, Program Director and Sr. Program Director. Mr. Hickernell received his Master of Business Administration with a concentration in marketing from the University of Baltimore, Merrick School of Business in Baltimore, Maryland. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in management from Towson State University in Baltimore, Maryland.
The Changing Issues Faced By CFOs Managing FQHC/Primary Care
Whole-person care is the future of specialty health care – and provides better services for less cost. However, there are many models for integrating primary care into behavioral health and I/DD support services. Each model has a different impact on an organization, from governance to staffing to revenue model. The questions to be considered by each CFO are, “What model fits best for our organization?”, and “How does that model ensure future market relevance and sustainability?” This session will feature speakers who implemented primary care in their organizations, including those who have successfully gained FQHC status.
- Learn what primary care integration models specialty providers have implemented
- Understand the financial benefits and challenges of integrating primary care into a specialty organization, including FQHC status
- Consider the role of merger and acquisition in primary care integration
Jose Garcia, MBA, CHCQM
Jose F. Garcia, MBA, CHCQM, brings over 30 years of experience in Health and Human services. A unique background as a former medical doctor (D. Med.), with an MBA, he has held a variety of supervisory and management positions at Citrus Health Network Inc., culminating in his current role of Chief Financial Officer.
In his role as Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Garcia has played a pivotal role alongside the CEO and COO in guiding the organization through the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. His knowledge of programs and services leads to thorough analysis of the financial position of each line of service which brings about recommendations and strategies which are instrumental in successfully navigating the challenges and opportunities for the company.
Prior to being the Chief Financial Officer Mr. Garcia served as Contract and Grants Administrator for Citrus Health Network Inc. In this role Mr. Garcia was responsible for overseeing the entire process of grants management, budget preparation and financial reporting on a large scale. This experience has equipped him with a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in financial planning and compliance.
Due to Mr. Garcias work experience providing direct services, he has been invited to present at national conferences, including The Innovation Forum in Atlanta, where he presented on Citrus Health Network’s initiatives on “Working to End Homelessness and Hunger” as well as Flexible Resources Data Driving Solutions conference in Atlanta.
Mr. Garcia is a Certified Health Care Quality Manager by the American Board of Quality Assurance and Utilization Review Physicians (ABQAURP). This certification underscores his commitment to ensuring the highest standard of quality and efficiency in healthcare delivery. Mr. Garcia has also completed the Leadership Institute with the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) gaining the necessary skills and knowledge to lead the organization in delivering high quality healthcare services and financial management.
Ken Carr
Ken Carr brings more than 20 years of finance, technology, data analysis, and reporting experience in the health and human services field to OPEN MINDS. He currently is a Senior Associate with the OPEN MINDS consulting practice. In this role, he has served as a subject matter expert leading numerous engagements in strategic planning, merger and acquisition prospecting, business process improvement, financial analysis of service lines, and technology selection.
Before joining the OPEN MINDS team, he served as the Chief Financial Officer of The Centers, a community mental health center in Ocala, Florida. In this position, Mr. Carr led a realignment of the organization’s financial management functions. This included revenue cycle management, EHR bill implementation and reporting, cash management enhancement, and strategic financial analysis.
Prior to his role at The Centers, Mr. Carr served as Chief Financial Officer of Guild Incorporated, an organization providing residential and community based mental health services in St. Paul, Minnesota. As CFO, Mr. Carr led the financial, billing, IT, quality, informatics, compliance, and facilities activities. During his tenure at Guild Incorporated, Mr. Carr used his expertise in change management and business process improvement to lead the EHR implementation team, align service data reporting and financial performance, and lead the financial and data capture activities for new service initiatives.
Mr. Carr has also held the positions of Administrative Director and Finance Director at the St. Paul National Testing Laboratory, a biomedical testing facility of the American Red Cross. In those positions he oversaw activities to enhance inventory management, align financial results to industry standards, and improve financial and facilities performance through problem analysis and quality management initiatives. He also was involved in directing human resource functions during laboratory closing near the end of his tenure.
Mr. Carr earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of South Dakota and a Master of Divinity Degree from Sioux Falls Seminary. He maintains an active CPA license with the State of South Dakota.
Autism Treatment: A Payer Perspective Discussion Session
Sponsored By 
Be part of the discussion on the most up-to-date information impacting health plan management trends for consumers with autism and autism related diagnoses. In this session, we will look at the latest industry trends and discuss what is changing in the autism landscape that impacts payers. Our experts will offer additional insights into how these trends have and will be impacting autism organizations across the nation.
The implications of the dynamic shifts in the market are having a profound effect on how payers and providers are contracting, interacting, and ultimately partnering. Join us to hear many of the potential opportunities coming from these trends, and how payers are evolving in their relationships with autism provider organizations. From this session, plan to take away:
- What providers are looking for in terms of outcomes.
- What are the commonalities across the payers.
- What policy changes are occurring that might shape the autism space.
- What value-based reimbursement looks like for autism treatment.
Stuart Buttlaire, Ph.D., MBA
Stuart Buttlaire has over 35 years of clinical, management, and leadership experience. His career includes diverse experience in both the public and private sectors of healthcare providing leadership and direction in healthcare delivery.
Dr. Buttlaire currently serves as the Regional Director of Behavioral Health and Addiction Medicine for Kaiser Permanente. In this role, Dr. Buttlaire designs and oversees a broad continuum of services and programs for both inpatient, ambulatory, and emergency settings for mental health and addiction medicine. Dr. Buttlaire previously served as the Regional Director of Inpatient Psychiatry and Continuing Care at Kaiser Permanente and the lead Mental Health Representative within Kaiser Permanente’s State Program Initiatives including Medicaid and Medicare.
Additionally, Dr. Buttlaire served as a regional leader in the development of best practices at Kaiser Permanente. Dr. Buttlaire developed and led major program redesigns including Integrated Urgent Services for adults and youth with mental health and substance use disorders, Kaiser Permanente Post-Acute Center (SNF) Behavioral Health Program, mental health and emergency room consultation and suicide prevention, multi-family groups for adults and teens in treatment of severe psychiatric conditions, and intensive outpatient treatment programs for adults and youths. Recently, Dr. Buttlaire implemented a mobile application for eating-disordered patients that won Kaiser’s Innovation Award. Dr. Buttlaire also developed and implemented two psychiatric inpatient units at Kaiser Permanente, one of them was a medical/psychiatric unit to treat those members with both medical and psychiatric co-morbidities and the other, was a free-standing psychiatric health facility.
Additionally, Dr. Buttlaire often provides expertise and consultation on state and federal legislation and its impact on behavioral health within Kaiser Permanente, the State of California, and nationally. Dr. Buttlaire is currently the Board President of the Institute for Behavioral Health Improvement. He was selected to the American Hospital Association Regional Policy Board for Western Section after serving as AHA’s Chair of Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse section. He is currently on the Board of Directors of NAMI California, and the California Hospital Association’s Advisory Board of Behavioral Health.
Dr. Buttlaire is a graduate from the University of California, Irvine’s Paul Merage School of Business with a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Health Care Management, Finance, and Marketing. Dr. Buttlaire also graduated from the California Institute of Integral Studies with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. Additionally, Dr. Buttlaire holds a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from California State University, Humboldt, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Political Science from the University of Colorado.
Tiffany Hodges
Dr. Hodges joined Optum in 2009 and is currently an Associate Vice President of Clinical Operations. Dr. Hodges provides leadership and direction related to Autism programs at Optum. She supports initiatives focusing on quality of care, operational excellence, and member/provider education. Dr. Hodges received her doctorate of psychology from Georgia School for Professional Psychology and completed her Behavior Analysts training at Chicago School for Professional Psychology.
Yagnesh Vadgama
Yagnesh Vadgama has been with Magellan for more than seven years, in managed care for eight years, and was a clinician in the field of Behavior Analysis for 11 years prior. Yagnesh has 20 years of experience in ABA, starting off by working directly with individuals on the autism spectrum to directing programs in homes, schools, and community-based settings.
Currently, as the Vice President of Autism for Magellan, Yagnesh oversees both the autism and ABA products for Magellan nationally. His team of BCBAs and licensed clinicians provide a unique experience in ABA UM as they all have a similar experience to Yagnesh with real-world experience. Yagnesh also engages in the innovation and decision-making process for ABA both at Magellan and nationally, with participation in workgroups such as ICHOM, speaking at conferences and universities, and developing outcome measures for the field of ABA.
Kimberly Bond, MS
Kimberly Bond, MS, LMFT, brings more than 30 years of experience providing behavioral health treatment in the public and community settings to the OPEN MINDS team. She currently serves as the Executive Vice President of Business Development. In this role, Ms. Bond focuses on growing the OPEN MINDS client portfolio across all nine verticals of OPEN MINDS business.
Prior to joining OPEN MINDS, Ms. Bond served concurrently as a Program Coordinator III and Clinical Manager of Adult Services and a Program Coordinator II and Clinical Manager of Recovery Services for the Ozark Guidance Center. In these roles, Ms. Bond was responsible for the administrative and clinical oversight of the adult outpatient and adult intensive mental health services on the Springdale Campus as well as the adult recovery/co-occurring services, including domestic violence and anger management treatment.
Prior to joining the Ozark Guidance Center, Ms. Bond served as the Executive Vice President of Center Point, Inc, a large substance abuse provider agency in California. In this role, Ms. Bond was responsible for the clinical and administrative supervision of all community-based programs as well as the women and children residential programs. In addition, Ms. Bond also managed budgets, interacted with funding agencies, and built positive relationships with all stakeholders. Ms. Bond was also in charge of proposal and grant writing, staff management, and training, facilities’ licensing and certifications renewals. Additionally, she prepared and submitted monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual reports to various funders.
Previously, Ms. Bond served as the President and CEO of Mental Health Systems, Inc. Ms. Bond was very instrumental in growing the agency from $12 million in annual revenue to more than $100 million and becoming one of the largest providers of behavioral health services in California. In this role, Ms. Bond was responsible for the strategic, clinical, financial, and administrative health of the agency, including direct supervision of Senior Executive Staff. In addition, Bond ensured contract compliance of the agency’s 125 different contracts across federal and state agencies and eight counties.
Ms. Bond received her bachelor’s degree in psychology, with honors, and her master’s degree in counseling education from San Diego State University. She is licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in both California and Arkansas.
The Changing Issues Faced By CFOs Managing Home-Based Services
Consumer preference is clearly to receive services in the home, and the pandemic along with technological innovation has accelerated the ability to deliver those services. How does an organization create new services, or reengineer current services to be delivered in the home? What service delivery model, revenue model and technology will ensure success? This session will assist the CFO in analyzing home-based services opportunities, create a business model, and help drive the service development process.
- Learn how organizations are implementing different home-based service delivery models
- Review how to create a financial model that links a service delivery approach to expense and revenue drivers, and assess ROI
- Discuss approaches for engaging payers in value-based payment for home-based services
Lisa Christian
Lisa Chrisitan brings more than 25 years of professional and nonprofit leadership experience to her role. She is currentIy the Senior Director of the BehavioraI HeaIth Division at CathoIic Charities of Santa Ciara County. Lisa’s most recent position was Chief Development Officer for the Community Housing Partnership in San Francisco. Her career highlights include 20 years working in operations and management for YMCA organizations in four U.S. cities, including as President and CEO of the YMCA in Middletown, New Jersey. Since 2011, Lisa has consulted with a wide range of nonprofit organizations—including serving in interim C-suite roles— providing them with expertise and leadership in strategic planning, and workforce and organizational development.
Jodie Esper
Jodie joined Mainstay as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in 2017. As CFO, Jodie is tasked with implementing the infrastructure and systems needed to support Mainstay’s mission, operations (including facilities, fleet, and information technology), financial objectives, and strategic initiatives. In 2023, Jodie became the CEO of enTRUST Services LLC, a subsidiary of Mainstay that provides comprehensive financial services that enrich the lives of people with disabilities.
Jodie has more than 25 years of accounting experience, with 17 years in a leadership capacity with nonprofit human services organizations. Jodie is passionate about the work as the mom of a son with an intellectual disability. She is an advocate and strong supporter in the disability community.
Jodie received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (B.S.B.A.) in accounting and a Master of Science degree in accounting from Robert Morris University in Moon Township, PA.
Dee Dewitt
Dee DeWitt has extensive experience as a consultant and corporate leader in the healthcare field. Mr. DeWitt brings over 28 years of experience in healthcare finance and operations, M&A, use of technology, strategic planning, and change management in healthcare organizations to OPEN MINDS as a Senior Associate.
Previously, Mr. DeWitt was the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Momentum For Health, a CARF-accredited non-profit behavioral health organization providing services to individuals with a diagnosed serious mental illness (SMI) and/or substance abuse disorder, in San Jose, California. During his tenure, Mr. DeWitt increased outpatient productivity by 25% and contributed to growing revenues from $55 million to a projected $71+ million for the fiscal year of 2023. Mr. DeWitt also oversaw Momentum ‘s pilot with Santa Clara County’s transition to Netsmart Provider Connect and led a successful grant award and implementation of a multi-year paid intern program in partnership with Santa Clara University, San Jose University, and Palo Alto University.
Mr. DeWitt was also the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Veridian Financial Group, a strategic consulting firm specializing in performing long-term, on-site C-level and Director roles, evaluating and implementing financial strategies, strategic operational planning, and development strategies for companies that are poised for significant growth, change, or require turnaround attention, in San Jose, California. During his time at Veridian Financial Group, Mr. DeWitt focused primarily on healthcare, finance, technology, and private equity and coordinated licensing, compliance, and external audits for 42 state licenses, including managed care organizations, managed care plans, Medicare, Medicaid, and service provider organizations.
In addition, Mr. DeWitt served as Chief Financial Officer and a Consultant in Strategic Planning and Finance for Home Recovery – Home Aid, Inc., a private equity-backed, for-profit company that provides personal care and skilled care in 35 locations and in-home care throughout Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. During his time there, Mr. DeWitt was a member of the company’s executive management team, audit team, and License & Compliance team. Mr. DeWitt also served as Chief Financial Officer of Professional Healthcare Resources, Inc., a for-profit holding company comprised of 5 home health companies, 4 hospice companies, and 2 private duty/personal care companies. Mr. DeWitt has also been the Chief Financial and Technology Officer for The Filson, a nationally renowned non-profit archive and research institute, and Director of Strategic Development for Signature Healthcare, LLC, a national private equity-backed for-profit, long-term care company operating over 180 facilities, with 18,000 employees, and over $1 billion in revenues.
Mr. DeWitt also held the positions of Deputy Director of Behavioral Health at the County of Ventura, CA Behavioral Health Services Department, and Director of Finance and Management Services of the Southeastern Arizona Behavioral Health Services (SEABHS), a joint commissioned accredited non-profit.
Mr. DeWitt graduated from the University of Louisville, Kentucky with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and a Master’s in Political Science with a concentration in Economics and Public Policy.
From Promise To Performance: How To Fully Harness An Integrated ONEcare Network To Maximize Performance-Based Incentives
Sponsored By: 
Join Renee White, MSW, LCSW, VP of Network Operations with Alera Health and Katrina Noyes, MPA Chief Quality and Compliance Officer with Southwest Network to learn how Affiliated Network Providers (ANP) out of Arizona was able to quickly close care gaps and lower the total cost of care spend for patients suffering from severe mental illness and polychronic medical conditions. Discussion will include:
- Specific quality improvement initiatives including best practice sharing, standardized protocols, and communication workflows.
- The role of the ONEcare Clinical Quality Improvement (CQI) committee to analyze opportunity, synchronize solutions, and monitor performance.
- Data sharing—example reports and alerts needed to support plan-do-check-act (PDCA), target registries, and risk segmentation.
- The role of the Clinically Integrated Network in resource/knowledge sharing, shared accountability, standardization, and partner/affiliate recruitment.
- Culture/Factors contributing to success and methods to address performance mitigation.
Alera Health builds and manages integrated systems of care (AKA “ONEcare” networks) across the US to solicit value-based agreements and maximize performance and gainshare earnings. Alera Health partners with OPEN MINDS to introduce and educate provider organizations who may someday participate in a ONEcare network.
*Don’t miss the freshly baked cookies in this session!
Katrina Noyes, MPA
Katrina Noyes champions her organization’s clinical and regulatory compliance, quality improvement, and employee development initiatives. A “servant leader,” Katrina collaborates with our teams to advance practices, fortify skill sets, and provide mutual support at all levels. She also leverages her passion for diversity and experience on numerous external workgroups to continually build Southwest Network’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program.
Katrina began her career in mental healthcare in 2005 as a high-needs case manager, serving the most vulnerable children/adolescent members and families. She later transitioned into quality improvement, where she rose the ranks to become the department’s director. In 2019, Katrina was named Senior Director of Operations before being promoted into her current role. Her dynamic experience in community mental health provides a depth of insights that enables her departments to best support clinical operations. She is currently working on enhancing performance metrics to refine training/practices and optimize member outcomes.
Katrina earned a BA in Psychology from Arizona State University and a Master of Public Administration (MPA) with a focus on healthcare management from Grand Canyon University. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Health Administration (DHA).
Renee White, MSW, LCSW
Renee, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, has been serving or supporting individuals in need of behavioral health care for over 30 years. She spent the first half of her career in direct practice serving youth and families, many of whom were engaged in the child welfare system, and she received training on multiple evidence-based therapy models. As the community-based agency grew and expanded over the years, Renee’s role also evolved into training and supervision of other clinicians and leading company-wide quality improvement initiatives. In 2019, after 15 years with a statewide comprehensive behavioral health organization, Renee was promoted to executive lead of the organization. As the Vice President of Operations, Renee had clinical and operational responsibility for ensuring 10,000 members, many challenged with serious mental illness, received high-quality behavioral health treatment and crisis support.
Renee is currently supporting 2 Clinically Integrated Networks in Arizona comprised of 10 behavioral health integrated care companies as the Vice President of Network Operations at Alera Health. She is excited to use her clinical knowledge and operational skills to assist these networks with refining their workflows to ensure members are engaged in treatment, and receiving timely health screenings and the highest quality of care possible.
Renee earned a BS in Psychology from the University of Arizona and a Master of Social Work from the University of Kentucky. She has held clinical licensure since 1999.
Carol Clayton, Ph.D.
Dr. Carol Clayton is a licensed, psychologist with 30 years of health care experience in the public and private sector, including non-profit and private practice work. Prior to joining OPEN MINDS as a Senior Consultant, she retired as the Translational Neuroscientist for Relias, where she specialized in health care solutions targeting workforce development and population health outcome improvement. Before joining Relias, Dr. Clayton was the CEO of Care Management Technologies, a health IT data analytics company. She also served as the Executive Director of the NC Council of Community Programs from 2000-2006. The NC Council is the predecessor organization to i2i.
The Changing Issues Faced By CFOs Managing Non-Profit Community-Based Care
The non-profit organizational structure has been the prominent approach to delivering specialty health care services. However a number of factors have created financial challenges for non-profit CFOs – stagnant rates, new competition from for-profit provider organizations, workforce challenges and the increased need for technology and infrastructure funding. The session will highlight the opportunities that can be leveraged with a non-profit structure, and how to address increasing competition and funding challenges. Attendees will learn:
- The components of creating a diversified revenue structure
- Strategies for gaining economies of scale and incorporating multiple operating structures
- New approaches to accessing capital
Simona Cataldo
Born and raised in Italy, Dr. Simona Cataldo is an experienced executive with a multicultural background and the ability to drive change and lead execution in fast-paced environments. She has over 20 years of clinical and administrative experience in the non-profit industry, both in mental health and traditional healthcare.
Dr. Cataldo describes herself as a mom, a wife, a leader, and a traveler. She is committed to her own lifelong development as a leader and believes that good leaders are first good humans. Her goal is to be a positive influence in the world by being an authentic and compassionate leader and teaching others what she has learned in her own journey of serving and developing people and organizations.
Dr. Cataldo currently serves as Chief Executive Officer for Victor, a partnership of two non-profit organizations offering specialty mental health services in community-based settings, residential treatment, and foster care and adoption services throughout California. Victor has a consolidated budget of over $100 M.
Edward Hackett
Ed Hackett is an accomplished nonprofit executive known for his collaborative approach and track record of success. With a strong background in finance and operations, he has consistently made valuable contributions to organizations by leveraging his for-profit experience. Ed is driven by a deep sense of mission to help clients and staff achieve their full potential.
Ed holds an MBA from Brigham Young University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of Connecticut. His academic achievements include memberships in the prestigious Beta Gamma Sigma and Golden Key National Honor Societies. Ed has passed the CPA exam and is an associate member of the CT Society of Certified Public Accountants.
As Chief Financial Officer for Victor, Ed brings his expertise in finance, information technology, and facilities to help Victor serve our clients. His experience enables him to drive strategic value and improve program operating margins while ensuring long-term sustainability.
In his previous role as the Chief Financial Officer of The Village for Families & Children, Inc., Ed played a pivotal role in the organization’s financial turnaround and growth. He successfully reduced budget dependence on endowment funds, implemented technology upgrades, and led significant refinancing efforts. Ed’s ability to build strong relationships with the board of directors and effectively manage the agency’s endowment and pension portfolios contributed to the overall success of the organization.
Ed Hackett’s extensive experience also includes serving as the Chief Financial Officer of Wheeler Clinic, Inc. During his tenure, he managed the financial resources of this nonprofit agency during a period of substantial growth. Ed’s efforts in implementing effective financial systems, optimizing cash flows, and reducing administrative expenses were instrumental in supporting the clinic’s expansion and improving overall efficiency.
Ken Carr
Ken Carr brings more than 20 years of finance, technology, data analysis, and reporting experience in the health and human services field to OPEN MINDS. He currently is a Senior Associate with the OPEN MINDS consulting practice. In this role, he has served as a subject matter expert leading numerous engagements in strategic planning, merger and acquisition prospecting, business process improvement, financial analysis of service lines, and technology selection.
Before joining the OPEN MINDS team, he served as the Chief Financial Officer of The Centers, a community mental health center in Ocala, Florida. In this position, Mr. Carr led a realignment of the organization’s financial management functions. This included revenue cycle management, EHR bill implementation and reporting, cash management enhancement, and strategic financial analysis.
Prior to his role at The Centers, Mr. Carr served as Chief Financial Officer of Guild Incorporated, an organization providing residential and community based mental health services in St. Paul, Minnesota. As CFO, Mr. Carr led the financial, billing, IT, quality, informatics, compliance, and facilities activities. During his tenure at Guild Incorporated, Mr. Carr used his expertise in change management and business process improvement to lead the EHR implementation team, align service data reporting and financial performance, and lead the financial and data capture activities for new service initiatives.
Mr. Carr has also held the positions of Administrative Director and Finance Director at the St. Paul National Testing Laboratory, a biomedical testing facility of the American Red Cross. In those positions he oversaw activities to enhance inventory management, align financial results to industry standards, and improve financial and facilities performance through problem analysis and quality management initiatives. He also was involved in directing human resource functions during laboratory closing near the end of his tenure.
Mr. Carr earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of South Dakota and a Master of Divinity Degree from Sioux Falls Seminary. He maintains an active CPA license with the State of South Dakota.
Bridging The Behavioral/Physical Health Gap: Leveraging Whole Person Care Models For Improved Care
Integrating behavioral and physical health services has proven to be a more effective approach toward caring for people with complex care needs. As a result, the industry has seen a rise in organizations shifting to Whole Person Care models.
A survey done by OPEN MINDS found that 73% of primary care provider organizations reported integrated treatment for co-occurring disorders, and 51% of specialty provider organizations have an integration strategy.
For executives who are wondering where to start with implementation or those who are looking for insights to improve current models, this dynamic session will explore the impact of integrated care on organizational success and offer strategies for implementing, maintaining, and measuring outcomes of Whole Person Care Models.
Join this session to:
- Identify practical strategies and best practices for bridging the gap between behavioral and physical health services.
- Understand how to overcome potential barriers and promote collaboration between different health care disciplines.
- Discuss the use of metrics and data analysis to demonstrate the value of the Whole Person Care Model to health care providers, payers, and policymakers.
Shar Najafi-Piper, Ph.D.
A clinical psychologist, Dr. Najafi-Piper has expertise in fully integrated continuums of care for complex-needs individuals and believes in a whole-person health care model that supports successful outcomes.
In leadership roles since 2008, she has also demonstrated notable talent and skill on the business side of the health and human services industry. This ranges from the implementation of quality assurance functions, peer review, utilization review, as well as service and clinical protocols. In addition, Dr. Najafi-Piper has demonstrated success in the areas of program development, contract development/negotiations, public relations, media development, and business growth through revenue diversification including both traditional and non-traditional sources.
Most recently, Dr. Najafi-Piper led in the creation of the first behavioral health Accountable Care Organization (ACO) in Maricopa County. Consisting of six multi-disciplinary providers, the ACO works collaboratively to reduce gaps in care and provide better outcomes while reducing the overall cost of providing services.
Gagandeep Singh, M.D., D.F.A.P.A.
Dr. Singh has served as the Chief Medical Officer for Mercy Care since September 2021. Prior to being at Mercy Care, he led behavioral health service lines for large integrated health systems. Dr. Singh is board-certified in Psychiatry, Consultation-Liaison (C/L) psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine.
Dr. Singh is responsible for driving improvements for Mercy Care through strategic medical management, quality management, value-based programming, and policy implementation. He provides leadership and direction to medical directors and clinical activities with the goal of advancing organizational integrated care efforts and quality of care improvements for members in all six of Mercy Care’s contracted lines of business. Dr. Singh builds new and strengthens existing relationships with providers and is the voice for Mercy Care in the Arizona medical community.
Dr. Singh holds an M.B.B.S (Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery) from the University of Delhi in India. He is also an Associate Professor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. He is the president of the Arizona Psychiatry Society and is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has published writings in scholarly medical journals and given various medical presentations.
Blythe FitzHarris, Ph.D., LSCW
Blythe FitzHarris, PhD, LCSW, is the Chief Clinical Office at Mercy Care. In her role, Blythe is responsible for clinical program development, including the Adult and Children’s Systems of Care and the Central Region Behavioral Health Crisis System. Additionally, Blythe oversees multiple Mercy Care service delivery systems including integrated care, the Office of Individual and Family Affairs (OIFA), grant services, cultural diversity and tribal affairs. She directs initiatives, strategies and programs to address social determinants of health (such as housing and employment) and system performance. Blythe works closely in her roles with stakeholders and system advocates.
Christy Dye, MPH
Christy Dye is a data-focused healthcare executive who brings over 30 years of experience supporting provider organizations, state agencies, and communities in achieving their business, operational, and quality goals in health and human services to OPEN MINDS as a Senior Associate. Christy’s career has included working as a state Medicaid leader, a national expert in substance abuse treatment systems, health information exchange and interoperability, and as chief executive for Arizona’s leading integrated primary/behavioral healthcare provider.
Prior to OPEN MINDS, Ms. Dye served as Chief Business Development Officer for Health Current, (division of Contexture), Arizona’s statewide health information exchange (HIE). While there, Ms. Dye developed provider education and training programs in using clinical and administrative data to improve patient outcomes and manage value-based reimbursement contracts. She led the Health Current HIE research data initiative in partnership with Arizona State University and also served as co-principal investigator for a National Institute of Mental Health project at ASU focused on information sharing for behavioral health populations.
Ms. Dye is the former Chief Executive Officer for Partners in Recovery (now Copa Health), an Arizona agency serving more than 10,000 adults with serious mental illness. At Partners she created a network of fully integrated behavioral and primary care clinics for SMI adults, and launched the company’s population health, value-based and complex care programs, including Arizona’s only Medical Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team.
Prior to PIR, she served as Division Chief for Clinical and Recovery Services and Arizona’s state substance abuse director at the Arizona Department of Health, Division of Behavioral Health. As a state official, she served on a team charged with the re-design of Medicaid behavioral health benefits in Arizona and oversaw the expansion of the state’s contracted managed care system to a more recovery focused model, including expansion of peer-delivered mental health, addiction, and consumer-operated services.
Ms. Dye graduated from the University of Arizona with a Master’s in Public Health Administration. She received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She is an active member of the Community Advisory Board for Health Informatics at ASU’s College of Health Solutions.
Deanne Cornette, MHA, GPC
Deanne Cornette, MHA, GPC, brings over 20 years of experience in the behavioral health field. Ms.Cornette currently serves as a Senior Associate for OPEN MINDS and brings to the OPEN MINDS team noted expertise in strategic planning, grant writing and revenue development.
Previously, Ms. Cornette was the Vice President of Strategic Development for Tampa Family Health Centers, a Federally Qualified Healthcare Center. In this role, she managed grants, contracts, front desk operations, training, quality assurance special assignments (risk assessments and responses to complaints), credentialing and billing functions. In a very short time period, she successfully procured funding to integrate behavioral health services, brought a system of processes to track health indicators and improve value-based care payment and service and became proficient in utilizing HRSA’s reporting portals.
As Counsel for Strategic Development at Agency for Community Treatment Services, Inc. (ACTS) and Vice President of Business Development for Gracepoint (merger), Ms. Cornette directed strategic development, contract negotiations, revenue development, marketing and grants. In this capacity, she targeted funding sources and built a lucrative cash flow that provided needed services to vulnerable populations in need of behavioral health treatment.
Some of her most successful negotiations created best practice services for veteran’s programs, women’s services, as well those involved with the criminal justice system. Her portfolio includes a wide array of awards from a multitude of agencies including, but not limited to: SAMHSA, HUD, Centers for Medicaid, and the Department of Transportation and collaborations with private, non-profit and government entities. Most recently, she worked with Gracepoint to develop Hillsborough’s Centralized Receiving Facility, one of the first funded in the State of Florida. From a system of care for jail diversion to evidence based practices for individuals who are homeless with behavioral health needs, her awards have netted over $80 million dollars to our community.
In addition, Ms. Cornette served as the Vice President for the National Contract Management Association Suncoast Chapter, Vice President of ACTS Affordable Housing Board of Directors, Vice President of ACTS Foundation Board of Directors, and was a member of Hillsborough County Health Care Advisory Board. She is the recipient of University of South Florida’s 2018 Florida Outstanding Women of the Year in Public Health. Her Centralized Receiving Facility collaborative won a 2018 WEDU PBS Be Brilliant / Innovation Award. Her concept of Housing, Engagement and Retention Tenancy (HEART) program won the 2018 Heart for Homeless award through the Housing and Education Alliance.
Ms. Cornette received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and her Masters Degree in Health Administration from the University of South Florida.
The Changing Issues Faced By CFOs Managing For-Profit Community-Based Care
For-profit specialty care organizations face unique financial challenges – how to create a sustainable growth plan built on an expandable infrastructure, how to address margin compression and ensure an acceptable rate of return for investors, and how to partner with other health care organizations, referral sources and payers for sustainable revenue. While a for-profit organization has access to more capital for growth, there are more complexities and stakeholders to address. This session will discuss:
- The relationship between an expandable infrastructure and sustainable growth
- Strategies for addressing profit compression
- Approaches to market expansion
Kenneth Duarte, MAcc, CPA
As Chief Financial Officer at Community Based Care (“CBC”), Kenneth is responsible for leading the finance organization, including financial planning & analysis, accounting, treasury management, tax and revenue cycle. Kenneth has over 18 years of experience across multiple industries, including healthcare, transportation, and professional services.
Prior to joining CBC, Kenneth served as Vice President of Finance and Accounting at Gastro Health, a national, multi-site healthcare provider. Kenneth began his career with Ernst & Young in their Assurance and Mergers and Acquisitions practices. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Florida International University, a Master of Science in Accounting from the University of Virginia, and is a Certified Public Accountant (Inactive) in North Carolina.
Ken Carr
Ken Carr brings more than 20 years of finance, technology, data analysis, and reporting experience in the health and human services field to OPEN MINDS. He currently is a Senior Associate with the OPEN MINDS consulting practice. In this role, he has served as a subject matter expert leading numerous engagements in strategic planning, merger and acquisition prospecting, business process improvement, financial analysis of service lines, and technology selection.
Before joining the OPEN MINDS team, he served as the Chief Financial Officer of The Centers, a community mental health center in Ocala, Florida. In this position, Mr. Carr led a realignment of the organization’s financial management functions. This included revenue cycle management, EHR bill implementation and reporting, cash management enhancement, and strategic financial analysis.
Prior to his role at The Centers, Mr. Carr served as Chief Financial Officer of Guild Incorporated, an organization providing residential and community based mental health services in St. Paul, Minnesota. As CFO, Mr. Carr led the financial, billing, IT, quality, informatics, compliance, and facilities activities. During his tenure at Guild Incorporated, Mr. Carr used his expertise in change management and business process improvement to lead the EHR implementation team, align service data reporting and financial performance, and lead the financial and data capture activities for new service initiatives.
Mr. Carr has also held the positions of Administrative Director and Finance Director at the St. Paul National Testing Laboratory, a biomedical testing facility of the American Red Cross. In those positions he oversaw activities to enhance inventory management, align financial results to industry standards, and improve financial and facilities performance through problem analysis and quality management initiatives. He also was involved in directing human resource functions during laboratory closing near the end of his tenure.
Mr. Carr earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of South Dakota and a Master of Divinity Degree from Sioux Falls Seminary. He maintains an active CPA license with the State of South Dakota.
Dee Dewitt
Dee DeWitt has extensive experience as a consultant and corporate leader in the healthcare field. Mr. DeWitt brings over 28 years of experience in healthcare finance and operations, M&A, use of technology, strategic planning, and change management in healthcare organizations to OPEN MINDS as a Senior Associate.
Previously, Mr. DeWitt was the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Momentum For Health, a CARF-accredited non-profit behavioral health organization providing services to individuals with a diagnosed serious mental illness (SMI) and/or substance abuse disorder, in San Jose, California. During his tenure, Mr. DeWitt increased outpatient productivity by 25% and contributed to growing revenues from $55 million to a projected $71+ million for the fiscal year of 2023. Mr. DeWitt also oversaw Momentum ‘s pilot with Santa Clara County’s transition to Netsmart Provider Connect and led a successful grant award and implementation of a multi-year paid intern program in partnership with Santa Clara University, San Jose University, and Palo Alto University.
Mr. DeWitt was also the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Veridian Financial Group, a strategic consulting firm specializing in performing long-term, on-site C-level and Director roles, evaluating and implementing financial strategies, strategic operational planning, and development strategies for companies that are poised for significant growth, change, or require turnaround attention, in San Jose, California. During his time at Veridian Financial Group, Mr. DeWitt focused primarily on healthcare, finance, technology, and private equity and coordinated licensing, compliance, and external audits for 42 state licenses, including managed care organizations, managed care plans, Medicare, Medicaid, and service provider organizations.
In addition, Mr. DeWitt served as Chief Financial Officer and a Consultant in Strategic Planning and Finance for Home Recovery – Home Aid, Inc., a private equity-backed, for-profit company that provides personal care and skilled care in 35 locations and in-home care throughout Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. During his time there, Mr. DeWitt was a member of the company’s executive management team, audit team, and License & Compliance team. Mr. DeWitt also served as Chief Financial Officer of Professional Healthcare Resources, Inc., a for-profit holding company comprised of 5 home health companies, 4 hospice companies, and 2 private duty/personal care companies. Mr. DeWitt has also been the Chief Financial and Technology Officer for The Filson, a nationally renowned non-profit archive and research institute, and Director of Strategic Development for Signature Healthcare, LLC, a national private equity-backed for-profit, long-term care company operating over 180 facilities, with 18,000 employees, and over $1 billion in revenues.
Mr. DeWitt also held the positions of Deputy Director of Behavioral Health at the County of Ventura, CA Behavioral Health Services Department, and Director of Finance and Management Services of the Southeastern Arizona Behavioral Health Services (SEABHS), a joint commissioned accredited non-profit.
Mr. DeWitt graduated from the University of Louisville, Kentucky with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and a Master’s in Political Science with a concentration in Economics and Public Policy.
Becoming A Center Of Excellence: Navigating Challenges, Embracing Opportunities & Collaborating With Health Plans
Centers of Excellence are rapidly gaining traction as a way for health plans to recognize provider organizations for delivering superior care. By identifying ‘high value’ provider organizations for specific conditions— payers are then able to develop benefit plans designed to encourage consumers to use those provider organizations.
Join our distinguished panel of industry leaders in this thought-provoking plenary session as they delve into the intricacies of what it means to become a Center of Excellence, share insights into the future implications for providers and health plans, and uncover both the challenges and opportunities inherent to this dynamic model.
Robert Poznanovich
Bob Poznanovich is the Chief Business Growth Officer and a member of the Executive Leadership Team at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. He manages the organization’s strategic relations with health systems, employers, insurance and managed care organizations, professional referents and other national accounts, along with the patient access and placement team. Bob is also responsible for bridging the gap between product development, marketing and sales to help the nonprofit reach more people with its lifesaving substance use and mental health care and resources
Bob joined Hazelden Betty Ford in 2009 after many wide-ranging and successful business ventures elsewhere. Prior to joining the organization, he co-founded and served as the CEO of AiR Health a behavioral health company. Before that, he spent over 20 years as a senior business development executive in the technology industry. He also co-authored the Hazelden Publishing title, It Is Not Okay to be a Cannibal: How to Stop Addiction from Eating Your Family Alive. On top of that, he also gives public speeches and media appearances to share his expertise on a variety of addiction-related topics, including the impact of addiction in the workplace.
Debra Nussbaum, Ph.D., LCSW
Dr. Debra “Deb” Nussbaum is a Sr. Director For Behavioral Health Evidence Based Services and National SUD Strategy Lead for Optum. Optum is the behavioral health specialty arm of United Healthcare Insurance Company. Deb has been in a clinical leadership role for Optum since 2010 and has led behavioral product design, network development and specifically substance use disorder (SUD) initiatives since 2013.
Deb’s products within Optum are designed to improve access to evidence based services, such as the adoption and roll out of the American Society of Addiction medicine (ASAM) criteria, expansion of Optum’s MOUD/MAUD network, implementation of the 24/7 SUD helpline and development of alternative payment and value based models of care. Deb also leads parity compliant benefit design initiatives for customers looking to address specific utilization trends for their population.
Deb’s clinical background is in substance use treatment, family services and was an addictions counselor prior to earning her PhD. She is also an LCSW licensed in Florida and in New York. Deb sits on many committees within ASAM and is an advocate for evidence based care at the federal level championing SUD legislation.
Stuart L. Lustig, M.D., MPH
Dr. Stuart L. Lustig came to Cigna in 2011 and is currently the National Medical Executive for Provider Partnerships at Evernorth, part of The Cigna Group. He engages with behavioral provider groups and other stakeholders about innovative care delivery and contracting approaches. He has also worked extensively with Cigna clients in his prior role as National Medical Executive for Behavioral Health. A board-certified child psychiatrist, he has also served as Lead Medical Director for Child and Adolescent Care for Evernorth Behavioral Health. Dr. Lustig previously served as an Associate Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco. For two decades, Dr. Lustig has worked with numerous human rights organizations and, due to numerous published articles in professional journals, is a nationally recognized expert on psychological trauma among refugees and political asylum seekers. He has provided consultations to numerous school systems in the San Francisco and Boston areas. He is the editor of the textbook Advocacy Strategies for Health and Mental Health Professionals: From Patients to Policies. Dr. Lustig received his Doctorate of Medicine from Rush Medical College and completed his psychiatric training at Stanford and Harvard hospitals. He also has a Master’s in Public Health from the University of Illinois School of Public Health.
Elisha Engelen, MA, LMFT
Elisha is a Vice President of Aon’s U.S. Health Transformation Team. She is a member of the U.S. Health Transformation Leadership Team. She is a leader for the Minneapolis Apprentice Program. Her role is to partner globally with Aon colleagues and client leaders to understand the current employee wellbeing strategy, culture, and utilization to inform needed changes or enhancements. Her role also includes people leadership, which includes developing the next leaders at Aon.
Prior to joining Aon in 2021, Elisha served as the Clinical Director at Cigna Healthcare and concurrently practiced in the field for 18 years as a Licensed Mental Health Professional.
She first began working in the industry in 2003 as a Mental Health Practitioner. Her background stretches clinical practice in community- based care, school-based counseling, and outpatient services. During her 16 years at Cigna, the highlights of her career were that she built Utilization and Case Management Programs in Autism and Eating Disorders and built a Talent Readiness and Sustainment Program for Medical and Behavioral Operations to serve 4000 employees.
Elisha’s expertise includes systemic mental health care. She brings her systemic thinking into her Prosci Change Management Certification to lead organizational changes. Her background also includes organizational cultural journey development and sustainment. She is trained in Mental Health First Aid.
Ken Carr
Ken Carr brings more than 20 years of finance, technology, data analysis, and reporting experience in the health and human services field to OPEN MINDS. He currently is a Senior Associate with the OPEN MINDS consulting practice. In this role, he has served as a subject matter expert leading numerous engagements in strategic planning, merger and acquisition prospecting, business process improvement, financial analysis of service lines, and technology selection.
Before joining the OPEN MINDS team, he served as the Chief Financial Officer of The Centers, a community mental health center in Ocala, Florida. In this position, Mr. Carr led a realignment of the organization’s financial management functions. This included revenue cycle management, EHR bill implementation and reporting, cash management enhancement, and strategic financial analysis.
Prior to his role at The Centers, Mr. Carr served as Chief Financial Officer of Guild Incorporated, an organization providing residential and community based mental health services in St. Paul, Minnesota. As CFO, Mr. Carr led the financial, billing, IT, quality, informatics, compliance, and facilities activities. During his tenure at Guild Incorporated, Mr. Carr used his expertise in change management and business process improvement to lead the EHR implementation team, align service data reporting and financial performance, and lead the financial and data capture activities for new service initiatives.
Mr. Carr has also held the positions of Administrative Director and Finance Director at the St. Paul National Testing Laboratory, a biomedical testing facility of the American Red Cross. In those positions he oversaw activities to enhance inventory management, align financial results to industry standards, and improve financial and facilities performance through problem analysis and quality management initiatives. He also was involved in directing human resource functions during laboratory closing near the end of his tenure.
Mr. Carr earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of South Dakota and a Master of Divinity Degree from Sioux Falls Seminary. He maintains an active CPA license with the State of South Dakota.
Leveraging AI To Drive Organizational Performance
Sponsored By: 
In this dynamic presentation, we will explore the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in optimizing organizational performance, focusing on administrative and clinical roles where studies have shown approximately 35% process improvement. Discover how AI technologies reshape traditional workflows, enhance decision-making processes, and drive operational excellence across behavioral health.
We will explore the tangible benefits of integrating AI solutions into administrative functions by engaging real-world examples, such as streamlining routine tasks, improving data accuracy, and boosting overall efficiency. Furthermore, we will spotlight the groundbreaking impact of AI in clinical settings, showcasing innovative applications that enhance client care and healthcare management.
Gain valuable and practical insights into how your team can harness the power of AI to elevate your organizational performance.
* Don’t miss the freshly baked cookies in this session!
Michael Lardieri, LCSW
Mike Lardieri is a licensed clinical social worker with a 30+ year history leading behavioral health organizations. He has led some of the largest behavioral health organizations in the nation, including for-profit, not-for-profit, and managed care organizations. Mike is an expert in 42 CFR Part 2, is a leader in quality management nationally, and leads Core’s efforts in implementing artificial intelligence and machine learning in behavioral health settings.
Thomas Starling, Ed.D.
Dr. Tom Starling is a growth-focused executive who has spent his extensive career specializing in defining vision and steering strategy for mission-driven small and mid-sized organizations. Dr. Starling has demonstrated year-after-year success in securing millions of dollars in funding and grants to drive growth, revamp programs, transform operations, and fuel long-term, positive change. Dr. Starling joins OPEN MINDS as a Senior Associate.
Previously, Dr. Starling was the Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships for Rogers Behavioral Health System, a nationally recognized nonprofit provider of highly specialized psychiatric care. In this role, Dr. Starling gave voices to 21 clinics across 10 states and drove the development of a multidisciplinary division, spanning advocacy, government relationships at a state and federal level, and behavioral health prevention and education. He identified, targeted, and secured donors, oversaw 10 staff, and controlled a $2 million budget. Dr. Starling was responsible for co-managing national sponsorship decisions and hired Public Affairs Director and Advocacy Manager to optimize organizational performance and cohesively connect messaging, media, and corporate platforms to advocacy and government relations.
Dr. Starling was also the President and Chief Operating Officer for Mental Health American (MHA) of Midsouth, a nonprofit organization that connects community members with specialized mental health and wellness resources, providing services that improve quality of life and promoting effective services where mental health needs exist. Dr. Starling used his extensive leadership and fundraising experience to define overall strategy and implement a new organizational structure for the largest affiliate in the South. He developed partnerships and managed all relations with funders, donors, and foundations, in addition to providers, hospitals, and health systems. Additionally, Dr. Starling partnered with state and federal legislatures, as well as local and city government officials supervised and supported 25 staff members and controlled the $2 million annual budget. Dr. Starling fueled revenues after creating and rolling out numerous impactful programs and outlined continuing education opportunities and expanded the suicide prevention program by 10 states. Dr. Starling was also nominated to serve on the National MHA Board of Directors and was elected Board Chair from 2018 to 2020, making it the first time in 110-year history to have the affiliate CEO serve as Board Chair.
Dr. Starling is also the former Vice President of Operations for HEOPS in Nashville, Tennessee. Dr. Starling led daily operations and expanded business for the start-up healthcare company. He served as ISO-9001 Quality Manager, HR Manager, Call Center Supervisor, and Chief Contract Negotiator. He was responsible for tripling staff size by opening Medicaid and Medicare networks in 12 states, making the entire network expand across 40 states in total and expanding from 1 call center to 3. Dr. Starling also became a Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31 listed mediator during his tenure.
Dr. Starling graduated with honors from Tennessee State University with his Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Administration. He also holds a Master of Arts in Medical Ethics from Vanderbilt University, a Master’s Degree in Theology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Baylor University. Additionally, he obtained a Medical Gerontology Certification from Meharry Medical College and a Business Leadership Certification from the Vanderbilt University Owen School of Business.
Winning The Challenge Of Labor Constraints With Technology & Analytics
Sponsored By: 
Within the current landscape of clinical labor, technology can play a pivotal role in organizational success in dealing with staffing constraints. From onboarding to retention, this session will share valuable insights on:
- Labor availability as a top concern for providers and sharing staffing data from within Therapy Brands’ users.
- The role of technology in onboarding – making it easy to use, easy to learn, and the impact on widening your hiring market.
- The role of analytics in maximizing utilizations, from the merging of payroll data and appointment data, to load balancing across providers, and more.
*Freshly baked brownies will be served in this session!
Deanne Cornette, MHA, GPC
Deanne Cornette, MHA, GPC, brings over 20 years of experience in the behavioral health field. Ms.Cornette currently serves as a Senior Associate for OPEN MINDS and brings to the OPEN MINDS team noted expertise in strategic planning, grant writing and revenue development.
Previously, Ms. Cornette was the Vice President of Strategic Development for Tampa Family Health Centers, a Federally Qualified Healthcare Center. In this role, she managed grants, contracts, front desk operations, training, quality assurance special assignments (risk assessments and responses to complaints), credentialing and billing functions. In a very short time period, she successfully procured funding to integrate behavioral health services, brought a system of processes to track health indicators and improve value-based care payment and service and became proficient in utilizing HRSA’s reporting portals.
As Counsel for Strategic Development at Agency for Community Treatment Services, Inc. (ACTS) and Vice President of Business Development for Gracepoint (merger), Ms. Cornette directed strategic development, contract negotiations, revenue development, marketing and grants. In this capacity, she targeted funding sources and built a lucrative cash flow that provided needed services to vulnerable populations in need of behavioral health treatment.
Some of her most successful negotiations created best practice services for veteran’s programs, women’s services, as well those involved with the criminal justice system. Her portfolio includes a wide array of awards from a multitude of agencies including, but not limited to: SAMHSA, HUD, Centers for Medicaid, and the Department of Transportation and collaborations with private, non-profit and government entities. Most recently, she worked with Gracepoint to develop Hillsborough’s Centralized Receiving Facility, one of the first funded in the State of Florida. From a system of care for jail diversion to evidence based practices for individuals who are homeless with behavioral health needs, her awards have netted over $80 million dollars to our community.
In addition, Ms. Cornette served as the Vice President for the National Contract Management Association Suncoast Chapter, Vice President of ACTS Affordable Housing Board of Directors, Vice President of ACTS Foundation Board of Directors, and was a member of Hillsborough County Health Care Advisory Board. She is the recipient of University of South Florida’s 2018 Florida Outstanding Women of the Year in Public Health. Her Centralized Receiving Facility collaborative won a 2018 WEDU PBS Be Brilliant / Innovation Award. Her concept of Housing, Engagement and Retention Tenancy (HEART) program won the 2018 Heart for Homeless award through the Housing and Education Alliance.
Ms. Cornette received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and her Masters Degree in Health Administration from the University of South Florida.
From Medicaid Dependency To A Thriving Commercial Book Of Business – Revenue Diversification For Growing Organizations
In today’s dynamic health care landscape, organizations are seeking innovative ways to secure their financial future while maintaining a competitive edge.
Over the next five years, the role of the commercial health plan will continue to grow in importance to all provider organizations. Already, group and non-group private insurers cover an estimated 179 million individuals—54.7% of the U.S. population—and 45 million individuals, 13.7% of the U.S. population, respectively. And in OPEN MINDS’ recent report of the unwinding of pandemic-era Medicaid coverage, commercial health plans are likely to gain membership.
In this dynamic session, discover how organizations have successfully expanded their revenue streams beyond traditional sources in order to better weather economic uncertainties and gain a distinct edge in the market. Our industry leaders will explore crucial aspects of revenue diversification, its impact on financial sustainability, and the strategic importance of engaging with commercial health plans through real-world examples and case studies.
- Understand how revenue diversification enhances financial sustainability and increases competitive advantage
- Discuss the operating and business model changes associated with working with commercial health plans
- Examine how commercial insurance is an important component of the organizational growth strategy
Rachel Jackson
Rachel Jackson is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of dedicated service in the behavioral health space. Currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer at Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health, Ms. Jackson plays a pivotal role in overseeing operations across five states, ensuring the delivery of high-quality substance abuse and mental health services to thousands of individuals.
Prior to her current role, Ms. Jackson served as the Director of Compliance at Recovery Unplugged, where her in-depth understanding of state and national standards of care played a crucial role in ensuring the organization’s adherence to regulatory guidelines. Her involvement in revenue analysis, operational efficiency, and the development of systems and processes has been instrumental in the success of Recovery Unplugged, which has positively impacted the lives of over 13,000 patients. Ms. Jackson demonstrates versatile leadership, showcasing a wealth of experience working with diverse populations and organizations with varying funding sources including non-profit, private, and managed care.
Ms. Jackson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Florida Atlantic University and a Masters’ of Science in Mental Health Counseling from NOVA Southeastern University. Her commitment to advancing the field of behavioral health is exemplified by her contributions as an author for a textbook used in graduate-level university courses for psychotherapy.
Ken Carr
Ken Carr brings more than 20 years of finance, technology, data analysis, and reporting experience in the health and human services field to OPEN MINDS. He currently is a Senior Associate with the OPEN MINDS consulting practice. In this role, he has served as a subject matter expert leading numerous engagements in strategic planning, merger and acquisition prospecting, business process improvement, financial analysis of service lines, and technology selection.
Before joining the OPEN MINDS team, he served as the Chief Financial Officer of The Centers, a community mental health center in Ocala, Florida. In this position, Mr. Carr led a realignment of the organization’s financial management functions. This included revenue cycle management, EHR bill implementation and reporting, cash management enhancement, and strategic financial analysis.
Prior to his role at The Centers, Mr. Carr served as Chief Financial Officer of Guild Incorporated, an organization providing residential and community based mental health services in St. Paul, Minnesota. As CFO, Mr. Carr led the financial, billing, IT, quality, informatics, compliance, and facilities activities. During his tenure at Guild Incorporated, Mr. Carr used his expertise in change management and business process improvement to lead the EHR implementation team, align service data reporting and financial performance, and lead the financial and data capture activities for new service initiatives.
Mr. Carr has also held the positions of Administrative Director and Finance Director at the St. Paul National Testing Laboratory, a biomedical testing facility of the American Red Cross. In those positions he oversaw activities to enhance inventory management, align financial results to industry standards, and improve financial and facilities performance through problem analysis and quality management initiatives. He also was involved in directing human resource functions during laboratory closing near the end of his tenure.
Mr. Carr earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of South Dakota and a Master of Divinity Degree from Sioux Falls Seminary. He maintains an active CPA license with the State of South Dakota.
Performance = Speed: The Seven Rules For Building Nimble, High-Performing Organization
To truly optimize performance, it is important executives don’t get tunnel vision, but rather view the organization as whole, an interconnected entity where when performance lags in one sector, it impacts the next. Performance optimization for specialty provider organizations is anchored by three pillars of organizational functionality: Strategy, Workforce, and Outcomes.
Join Monica E. Oss as she explores key strategies for improving organizational performance and offers insight on what it will take to stand out in an increasingly competitive landscape in 2024.
Monica E. Oss
Monica E. Oss, M.S. is the founder of OPEN MINDS and serves as its chief executive officer, executive editor of its publications and websites, and executive lead of its consulting engagements. For the past three decades, Ms. Oss has led the OPEN MINDS team and its research on health and human service market trends and its national consulting practice. She is well known for her numerous books and articles focused on the strategic and marketing implications of the evolving health and human service field – and its focus on the verticals of the field serving consumers with chronic conditions and complex support needs.
Ms. Oss has extensive experience in developing and implementing growth strategies for a wide array of organizations in the field. She has expertise in industry trend analysis, reimbursement, rate setting, and creating actionable plans for market success. In her role, she has led numerous engagements with state Medicaid plans, county governments, private insurers, and health plans, service provider organizations, technology vendors, neurotechnology and pharmaceutical organizations, and investment banking firms – with a focus on the implications of financing changes on delivery system design.
Prior to founding OPEN MINDS, Ms. Oss served as an executive with a nationally managed behavioral health organization, responsible for market development, actuarial analysis, and capitation-based rate setting. She also held a position as vice president of the U.S. risk management and underwriting division of an international insurance company.
Ms. Oss has been the keynote speaker at the conferences of dozens of national associations and has been published in a wide range of professional journals and trade publications. She has provided Congressional and state legislative testimony on issues as diverse as the financial impact of parity and payer medication access policies.
Ms. Oss has led a range of industry research and consultation initiatives, serving as principal investigator on research projects that include the examination of national managed care enrollment and service patterns, development of provider rate structures for government entities, creation of return-on-investment models for technology investments; design of performance-based compensation models within public and private health plans; and analysis of the economic impact of changes in benefit design, adoption of evidence-based practices, and new technologies.