Julio Arias III, CPA
Vice President of Operations
Health Integrity, LLC
Margaret K. Brockman, RN, MSN, CCM, COHN
Program Specialist, Physician Services
Nebraska Medicaid and Long Term Care Margaret Brockman is currently employed as a Program Specialist for Physicians Services with Nebraska Medicaid and Long Term Care. She has been the Co-coordinator of the Patient Centered Medical Home Pilot since the beginning in August 2009. Prior to her work with DHHS, Margaret was an associate clinical director with Best Doctors. Margaret was involved in the development and administration of HeartlandCOMP, a certified managed care plan for workers’ comp with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska for 14 years. In addition, Margaret have been the founder and president of her own case management company, Professional Health Consultants, providing services to self-insured businesses and insurance companies for numerous years. Margaret is also an adjunct faculty member with Nebraska Wesleyan University instructing Master Nursing Students in Nursing Administration and Case Management.
Program Specialist, Physician Services
Nebraska Medicaid and Long Term Care Margaret Brockman is currently employed as a Program Specialist for Physicians Services with Nebraska Medicaid and Long Term Care. She has been the Co-coordinator of the Patient Centered Medical Home Pilot since the beginning in August 2009. Prior to her work with DHHS, Margaret was an associate clinical director with Best Doctors. Margaret was involved in the development and administration of HeartlandCOMP, a certified managed care plan for workers’ comp with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska for 14 years. In addition, Margaret have been the founder and president of her own case management company, Professional Health Consultants, providing services to self-insured businesses and insurance companies for numerous years. Margaret is also an adjunct faculty member with Nebraska Wesleyan University instructing Master Nursing Students in Nursing Administration and Case Management.
Stephanie Sullivan Chrobak
Director of Commonwealth Care Program
Commonwealth Health Insurance Connector Authority (Health Connector) Stephanie Chrobak joined the Health Connector in March of 2010. As the Director of the Commonwealth Care Program, she oversees the Health Connector’s subsidized health insurance program that insures over 180,000 individuals. In addition to daily management of the program, Stephanie works with other state leaders in assessing and building Massachusett’s plan for national health care reform.
Before joining the Commonwealth Health Insurance Connector Authority, Stephanie worked for a commercial insurance company, an integrated provider network and for the Federal government.
She holds a Masters in Health Services Administration and Medical Economics from the University of Michigan and a B.A in Psychology and Sociology from Western Michigan University.
Director of Commonwealth Care Program
Commonwealth Health Insurance Connector Authority (Health Connector) Stephanie Chrobak joined the Health Connector in March of 2010. As the Director of the Commonwealth Care Program, she oversees the Health Connector’s subsidized health insurance program that insures over 180,000 individuals. In addition to daily management of the program, Stephanie works with other state leaders in assessing and building Massachusett’s plan for national health care reform.
Before joining the Commonwealth Health Insurance Connector Authority, Stephanie worked for a commercial insurance company, an integrated provider network and for the Federal government.
She holds a Masters in Health Services Administration and Medical Economics from the University of Michigan and a B.A in Psychology and Sociology from Western Michigan University.
Bill Clark
Director, Provider and Member Relations
Department of Vermont Health Access Bill Clark is the Director of Provider and Member Relations at the Department of Vermont Health Access (DVHA, the department responsible for Vermont’s publicly administered health insurance programs). Mr. Clark is responsible for managing DVHA’s provider network and enrollment processes. DVHA recently developed a new provider enrollment manual in order to incorporate the CMS 6028 rules and to enhance the quality of the enrollment process. The new manual is designed to balance DVHA’s desire for a robust provider network with the need to protect the network from risky enrollments. These enrollment protections will become even more important over the next few years as Vermont creates the nation’s first publicly-funded, single-payer healthcare delivery system.
Prior to working in Provider and Member Relations, Mr. Clark was a Financial Director at DVHA where he managed audits, accounting practices, grants/contracts and other fiscal management duties. Before entering the Medicaid world, Mr. Clark served in various roles within the Vermont Department of Health, including: terrorism preparedness, death investigation and emergency medical services.
Director, Provider and Member Relations
Department of Vermont Health Access Bill Clark is the Director of Provider and Member Relations at the Department of Vermont Health Access (DVHA, the department responsible for Vermont’s publicly administered health insurance programs). Mr. Clark is responsible for managing DVHA’s provider network and enrollment processes. DVHA recently developed a new provider enrollment manual in order to incorporate the CMS 6028 rules and to enhance the quality of the enrollment process. The new manual is designed to balance DVHA’s desire for a robust provider network with the need to protect the network from risky enrollments. These enrollment protections will become even more important over the next few years as Vermont creates the nation’s first publicly-funded, single-payer healthcare delivery system.
Prior to working in Provider and Member Relations, Mr. Clark was a Financial Director at DVHA where he managed audits, accounting practices, grants/contracts and other fiscal management duties. Before entering the Medicaid world, Mr. Clark served in various roles within the Vermont Department of Health, including: terrorism preparedness, death investigation and emergency medical services.
Patty Conner
Director, Utah Health Exchange,
Governor's Office of Economic Development, State of UtahPatty Conner is currently the Director of Office of Consumer Health Services (OCHS) under the Governor’s Office of Economic Development. OCHS is responsible for the development and management of the Utah Health Exchange. The Utah Health Exchange is one of only two exchanges currently in operation in the country. UHE is currently operating the small business and individual commercial portions of the site to provide an online platform for Utah businesses and individuals who need insurance coverage tailored specifically to their needs and budgets.
Prior to joining GOED, Ms. Conner's spent 20 years in business and management positions in the Health and Welfare field working for Health Benefits America, ADP, and Ceridian. She was responsible for business development, client retention, managing client relationships, strategic partnership and overall service delivery. Ms. Conner led large cross-functional teams in multi-million dollar accounts and projects serving companies ranging from 300 to 100,000 employees. Her experience includes partnership amongst the carrier and broker community, as well as managing multiple vendor relationships.
Patty Conner holds dual BS degrees in Business Administration and Organizational Communication and an Associate degree in Economics from University of Montana. In addition, she earned the Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) Certification from the International Foundation of Employee Benefits, Wharton School of Business.
Director, Utah Health Exchange,
Governor's Office of Economic Development, State of UtahPatty Conner is currently the Director of Office of Consumer Health Services (OCHS) under the Governor’s Office of Economic Development. OCHS is responsible for the development and management of the Utah Health Exchange. The Utah Health Exchange is one of only two exchanges currently in operation in the country. UHE is currently operating the small business and individual commercial portions of the site to provide an online platform for Utah businesses and individuals who need insurance coverage tailored specifically to their needs and budgets.
Prior to joining GOED, Ms. Conner's spent 20 years in business and management positions in the Health and Welfare field working for Health Benefits America, ADP, and Ceridian. She was responsible for business development, client retention, managing client relationships, strategic partnership and overall service delivery. Ms. Conner led large cross-functional teams in multi-million dollar accounts and projects serving companies ranging from 300 to 100,000 employees. Her experience includes partnership amongst the carrier and broker community, as well as managing multiple vendor relationships.
Patty Conner holds dual BS degrees in Business Administration and Organizational Communication and an Associate degree in Economics from University of Montana. In addition, she earned the Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) Certification from the International Foundation of Employee Benefits, Wharton School of Business.
Robert E. Cooper, Jr.
Manager of Community Affairs
Ameri Health Mercy Health Plan
Robert E. Cooper, Jr. is the Manager of Community Affairs for AmeriHealth Mercy Health Plan. He manages the Community Outreach Department which consists of five outreach representatives that cover AmeriHealth Mercy's 1O county Lehigh/Capital zone and the Five county Northeast zone. Robert joined AmeriHealth Mercy 12 years ago as a Marketing Representative. He has also held other positions in the company including Provider Contracting Representative and Community Outreach Supervisor. Robert is very active in his community and currently serves on four boards including the South Central Pennsylvania Alignment For Quality Care (A4Q), The Boy's Club of York, New Hope Academy Charter School, Lincoln Edison Charter School located in York, PA and the American Lung Association - South Central Region. Robert is a graduate of Lock Haven University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications/Media Studies and has earned his Masters of Business Administration from Ashford University. He is an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Harrisburg Alumni Chapter. Robert resides in Mount Wolf, Pa with his wife Mychelle and his four children.
Manager of Community Affairs
Ameri Health Mercy Health Plan
Robert E. Cooper, Jr. is the Manager of Community Affairs for AmeriHealth Mercy Health Plan. He manages the Community Outreach Department which consists of five outreach representatives that cover AmeriHealth Mercy's 1O county Lehigh/Capital zone and the Five county Northeast zone. Robert joined AmeriHealth Mercy 12 years ago as a Marketing Representative. He has also held other positions in the company including Provider Contracting Representative and Community Outreach Supervisor. Robert is very active in his community and currently serves on four boards including the South Central Pennsylvania Alignment For Quality Care (A4Q), The Boy's Club of York, New Hope Academy Charter School, Lincoln Edison Charter School located in York, PA and the American Lung Association - South Central Region. Robert is a graduate of Lock Haven University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications/Media Studies and has earned his Masters of Business Administration from Ashford University. He is an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Harrisburg Alumni Chapter. Robert resides in Mount Wolf, Pa with his wife Mychelle and his four children.
Robert M. Damler, FSA, MAAA
Consulting Actuary
Milliman
Thomas Derrick
President
MariChris, LLC
Information Technology Professional with over twenty five years of business expertise specializing in optimizing People, Processes, and Technology. Focused expertise is in Business Development, IT Services Management, Operations Management, and business process improvement across numerous industry verticals. Orchestrates cross functional teams to drive collaboration and achieve strong client results. Founding member of the AIM Alliance – Alliance for Innovations in Medicaid.
He has extensive experience with Healthcare at the Point-of-Care, Medicaid, Eligibility Determination and CDC Disease reporting. Today he is focused on the investments in software and personnel to deliver best in class solutions to the providers and payers in the healthcare space. New initiatives include Eligibility Determination, CMS Traceability Certification, HIE and the National Exchanges that will become an integral part of the national healthcare IT reform.
He is married, has 2 adopted children and enjoys fishing off the Florida coast.
Holly Michaels Fisher
Vice President, Government Program Management and Strategies
OptumInsight Consulting
Strategies practice of OptumInsight Consulting. Holly has more than 25 years of experience, half of which was gained on the provider side, working with hospitals, physicians, home- and community-based services involved in advocacy, research, product and program development, planning, and management. Holly also has experience on the payer side in commercial, managed long-term care, Medicaid and Medicare health plans; product development; implementation; executive management; and consulting.
Recently, Holly developed and managed Medicare Advantage special needs plans and Medicaid Managed long-term care plans. She also worked on strategy, feasibility and implementation planning for Medicaid managed long-term care and Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Additionally, she worked on integration strategy and operation planning for Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, and special needs plans. Holly performed market analysis and strategy for health plans and facilitated C-Suite and board-level discussions. Prior to joining Ingenix Consulting, Holly was the executive director for Evercare where she managed Institutional Special Needs Plans (SNP) and dual SNPs in New York and New Jersey. Prior to this, she was senior vice president at Comprehensive Care Management, which is the largest PACE organization in the country and also offers a Medicaid-only managed long-term care product and a Medicare Advantage Institutional Special Needs Plan.
Holly was the vice president of long-term care at WellCare Health Plans where she was responsible for Medicaid and Medicare managed long-term care product development. Prior to this, she worked for the Visiting Nurse Service (VNS) of New York where she was the executive director of VNS CHOICE, the leading Medicaid managed long-term care program in New York State. She also worked as the vice president for program development, responsible for strategic program development.
Holly earned a master’s degree in urban planning from the Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture and Planning, a master’s degree in public health administration from the Columbia University School of Public Health, and a bachelor of science in nursing from the Columbia University School of Nursing.
Clint Fuhrman
Director of Government Health Care Programs
LexisNexis Risk Solutions
Director of Government Health Care Programs
LexisNexis Risk Solutions
Clint Fuhrman is the Director of Government Health Care Programs for LexisNexis Risk Solutions. Mr. Fuhrman joined LexisNexis in 2009 after serving as Deputy Secretary of the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration. During his time at AHCA, Mr. Fuhrman helped direct Agency strategy and operations in the areas of legislative affairs, communications, Medicaid policy, and health information technology. He was appointed by Governor Charlie Crist to the board of the Florida Healthy Kids Corporation in 2008. Mr. Fuhrman has over 10 years of experience in the government, health care and political fields. He served as Special Assistant to Governor Jeb Bush from 1999-2002, and represented a wide range of clients before the Florida Legislative and Executive branches as Director of Legislative Affairs for The Rubin Group and President of Meridian Consulting Group. Mr. Fuhrman has extensive grassroots and statewide campaign experience, having served with the Republican Party of Florida, the Republican National Committee, and the Charlie Crist gubernatorial campaign, among others. Mr. Fuhrman began his career with the Florida Institute of Government at Florida State University, and is an FSU graduate. He currently resides in Washington, D.C., and is a native of Pensacola, Florida.
M. Melanie "Bz" Giese, RN
Deputy Director, Medical and Managed Care Services
South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Melanie Giese is SCDHHS’s Deputy Director of Managed Care and Medical Services. Her responsibilities include managing a budget of over $3 billion dollars with oversight of Hospitals, Physicians, Pharmacy, Transportation, Dental, Managed Care, Pharmacy, DME and Medical Support services. She has over 26 years of hospital and pharmaceutical experience from the Medical University of South Carolina, Palmetto Baptist Health System, and Merck & Co. In addition, she has worked for over 7 years in state government at DHHS. Ms. Giese’s educational background includes a Bachelors Degree in Nursing from the University of South Carolina. She also serves as an Adjunct Professor at the USC School of Public Health.
Deputy Director, Medical and Managed Care Services
South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Melanie Giese is SCDHHS’s Deputy Director of Managed Care and Medical Services. Her responsibilities include managing a budget of over $3 billion dollars with oversight of Hospitals, Physicians, Pharmacy, Transportation, Dental, Managed Care, Pharmacy, DME and Medical Support services. She has over 26 years of hospital and pharmaceutical experience from the Medical University of South Carolina, Palmetto Baptist Health System, and Merck & Co. In addition, she has worked for over 7 years in state government at DHHS. Ms. Giese’s educational background includes a Bachelors Degree in Nursing from the University of South Carolina. She also serves as an Adjunct Professor at the USC School of Public Health.
Jeff Gottlieb
Director of Sales, Public Sector
SXC Health Solutions, Inc.Jeff Gottlieb is Director of Sales, Public Sector at SXC Health Solutions, Inc. In this position he is responsible for the growth of SXC’s public sector line of business. Prior to taking on this role, Jeff was responsible for account management and operations for SXC’s Canadian line of business, as well as strategic accounts in the United States. Prior to joining SXC, Jeff worked as Vice President for Healthcare at CNSI where he worked to expand the MMIS offering making CNSI a major player in that market, and help implement major healthcare projects in the US and Middle East. Prior to CNSI, Jeff was a Chief Information Officer for the State of Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Jeff has published several articles and whitepapers having to do with Fraud and Abuse, evolutions in the MMIS market, and challenges in Third-Party-Liability. Jeff is also a PMP, volunteer paramedic, pilot, soccer coach, and avid sailor.
Director of Sales, Public Sector
SXC Health Solutions, Inc.Jeff Gottlieb is Director of Sales, Public Sector at SXC Health Solutions, Inc. In this position he is responsible for the growth of SXC’s public sector line of business. Prior to taking on this role, Jeff was responsible for account management and operations for SXC’s Canadian line of business, as well as strategic accounts in the United States. Prior to joining SXC, Jeff worked as Vice President for Healthcare at CNSI where he worked to expand the MMIS offering making CNSI a major player in that market, and help implement major healthcare projects in the US and Middle East. Prior to CNSI, Jeff was a Chief Information Officer for the State of Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Jeff has published several articles and whitepapers having to do with Fraud and Abuse, evolutions in the MMIS market, and challenges in Third-Party-Liability. Jeff is also a PMP, volunteer paramedic, pilot, soccer coach, and avid sailor.
Linda Hamacher
Linda Hamacher, President & CEO,
Genesee Health Plan of Michigan
Senior Consultant,
Health Management Associates
Dr. Scott Howell
National Senior Medical Director for Clinical Performance and Compliance
OptumInsight
Dr. Scott Howell is the National Senior Medical Director for the Clinical Performance and Compliance at OptumInsight. He is responsible for risk adjustment, quality performance and predictive modeling. Previously, Dr. Howell was the Regional Chief Medical Officer (RCMO) for the Northeast Region of Americhoice, Inc. where he focused on the Medicaid and Dual SNPs populations. Prior to Americhoice, Dr. Howell was the Medical Director for Managed Care at the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, the first HIV SNP in the nation.
Dr. Howell is board certified in Family Practice and Preventative Medicine and Public Health. He holds a Master of Economics degree from the University of Miami, a Master of Public Health and Tropical Medicine (MPH&TM) from Tulane University and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from California State University Fresno.
Dr. Howell serves in the military reserves with the Office of Secretary of Defense (OSD) at the Department of Defense Inspector General, concentrating on the Wounded Warrior program. Previously he served as the Surgeon General for 10th Air Force.
Thomas L. Johnson
President and CEO
Medicaid Health Plans of America
Thomas L. Johnson has served as President and CEO of the Medicaid Health Plans of America since September 1, 2004. MHPA is a Washington-DC-based trade association representing Medicaid health plans. Mr. Johnson represents the interests of the Medicaid health plan industry before Congress, the Executive Branch, and state governments. Prior to his tenure with MHPA, he served as Vice President of Compliance and External Affairs for DC Chartered Health Plan, a Medicaid health plan located in Washington, DC. He served as Chartered’s lobbyist and legislative liaison with the Federal and State executive and legislative branches of government. Mr. Johnson also created, monitored and implemented Chartered’s compliance program, where he monitored and enforced compliance with federal and state regulations including HIPAA, BBA, and contract compliance. During his tenure at Chartered, Mr. Johnson also served as Chair for two terms of the DC Association of Health Maintenance Organizations, winning the 2003 Leadership Award. Mr. Johnson’s health care lobbying experience also includes serving as President of the DC Hospital Association; and representing the Medical Society of the District of Columbia, which serves as the DC Chapter of the American Medical Association. Mr. Johnson won repeated awards from the AMA for membership increases in DOCPAC, MSDC’s political action committee. Mr. Johnson has also represented regional trade associations on various issues, including but not limited to transportation, land use, taxation, personnel, and procurement issues. Mr. Johnson’s major projects during this tenure included securing regional agreement and funding for the new Woodrow Wilson Bridge, and approval of support for construction of the Verizon Center. Regional groups that he has represented include the Greater Washington Board of Trade (the area’s regional chamber of commerce); the Washington Area New Automobile Dealers Association; the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce; and the Midtown Business Association (serving as it founder). He is a native and resident of Washington, DC. He is also a graduate of Tufts University and the Howard University Law Center.
President and CEO
Medicaid Health Plans of America
Thomas L. Johnson has served as President and CEO of the Medicaid Health Plans of America since September 1, 2004. MHPA is a Washington-DC-based trade association representing Medicaid health plans. Mr. Johnson represents the interests of the Medicaid health plan industry before Congress, the Executive Branch, and state governments. Prior to his tenure with MHPA, he served as Vice President of Compliance and External Affairs for DC Chartered Health Plan, a Medicaid health plan located in Washington, DC. He served as Chartered’s lobbyist and legislative liaison with the Federal and State executive and legislative branches of government. Mr. Johnson also created, monitored and implemented Chartered’s compliance program, where he monitored and enforced compliance with federal and state regulations including HIPAA, BBA, and contract compliance. During his tenure at Chartered, Mr. Johnson also served as Chair for two terms of the DC Association of Health Maintenance Organizations, winning the 2003 Leadership Award. Mr. Johnson’s health care lobbying experience also includes serving as President of the DC Hospital Association; and representing the Medical Society of the District of Columbia, which serves as the DC Chapter of the American Medical Association. Mr. Johnson won repeated awards from the AMA for membership increases in DOCPAC, MSDC’s political action committee. Mr. Johnson has also represented regional trade associations on various issues, including but not limited to transportation, land use, taxation, personnel, and procurement issues. Mr. Johnson’s major projects during this tenure included securing regional agreement and funding for the new Woodrow Wilson Bridge, and approval of support for construction of the Verizon Center. Regional groups that he has represented include the Greater Washington Board of Trade (the area’s regional chamber of commerce); the Washington Area New Automobile Dealers Association; the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce; and the Midtown Business Association (serving as it founder). He is a native and resident of Washington, DC. He is also a graduate of Tufts University and the Howard University Law Center.
Tammy Johnston
Relationship Manager
Assurance Wireless
Tammy Johnston, Relationship Manager for Assurance Wireless is responsible for developing and managing national partner relationships. Tammy brings extensive marketing and channel development experience to the Assurance Wireless team, and also serves on the board of Catalyst Youth Leadership, a national program that helps mentor and coach at risk youth. Tammy holds a Masters in Marketing Strategy from the University of Texas at Dallas.
Kevin Kempske
Partner, EVP, Public Relations and Grassroots Outreach
GKV
Kevin leads the Public Relations and Grassroots Outreach disciplines at GKV. He has more than 18 years of public relations, public affairs, social marketing and crisis management experience. Kevin currently leads the team responsible for developing and executing Maryland Physicians Care’s Healthy Groove outreach program, the integrated marketing program for a new Medicaid plan (MajestaCare) in rural Virginia run by Carilion Clinic and Aetna Medicaid, a public education and outreach campaign for the Living Legacy Foundation and Maryland’s Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program. Previously, Kevin led the agency’s efforts for the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s anti-tobacco program and United Health Care’s Arizona Physicians IPA grassroots outreach program.
David C. Kumpf
CEO
Optimetra
Dave is the founder and CEO of Optimetra, Inc. He is a key consultant for the firm, focused on public sector healthcare business development, including strategy development, operational solution planning and development; project management; writing and editing; and independent evaluation of proposal responses. He is also a certified Project Mangement Professional with extensive experience in planning and managing large-scale business implementation.
Dave's current and past client projects include:
• Medicaid managed care business development, including proposal leadership,
development and evaluation
• Medicaid Management Information System proposal and project
plan development
• TRICARE proposal leadership and development
• Implementation planning and project management
• Acquisition integration project management
• Development &deployment of healthcare project management
methodologies and training
Dave is resonsible for all aspects of Optimetra's continued growth and key decision making including: corporate strategy; client relationship building, and hiring decisions.
Prior to founding Optimetra, Dave held positions with Foundation Health Systems, Inc. as Director of Process Engineering and Director of Business Projects. He was also President and co-founder of Lexicon Systems, Inc., a consulting firm focused on information design and development; documentation management; and project management.
CEO
Optimetra
Dave is the founder and CEO of Optimetra, Inc. He is a key consultant for the firm, focused on public sector healthcare business development, including strategy development, operational solution planning and development; project management; writing and editing; and independent evaluation of proposal responses. He is also a certified Project Mangement Professional with extensive experience in planning and managing large-scale business implementation.
Dave's current and past client projects include:
• Medicaid managed care business development, including proposal leadership,
development and evaluation
• Medicaid Management Information System proposal and project
plan development
• TRICARE proposal leadership and development
• Implementation planning and project management
• Acquisition integration project management
• Development &deployment of healthcare project management
methodologies and training
Dave is resonsible for all aspects of Optimetra's continued growth and key decision making including: corporate strategy; client relationship building, and hiring decisions.
Prior to founding Optimetra, Dave held positions with Foundation Health Systems, Inc. as Director of Process Engineering and Director of Business Projects. He was also President and co-founder of Lexicon Systems, Inc., a consulting firm focused on information design and development; documentation management; and project management.
Greg Moody
Director, Governor’s Office of Health TransformationState of OhioGovernor John R. Kasich appointed Greg Moody in January 2011 to lead the Office of Health Transformation. OHT is responsible for advancing Governor Kasich’s Medicaid modernization and cost-containment priorities, engaging private sector partners to improve overall health system performance, and recommending a permanent health and human services structure for Ohio.
Greg began his public service career as a budget associate for the U.S. House Budget Committee in Washington D.C. The Budget Chairman at the time, Rep. John Kasich, asked Greg to study the impact of Medicaid on federal spending – an assignment that set the course for his public policy career.
Prior to joining the Kasich Administration, Greg was a senior consultant at Health Management Associates, a national research and consulting firm that specializes in complex health care program and policy issues. He worked with clients to improve Medicaid system performance, and wrote extensively about state health system innovations for the Commonwealth Fund, National Governor’s Association, and other foundations.
Greg’s Ohio experience includes serving as Interim Director of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (2001), Executive Assistant for Health and Human Services for Governor Bob Taft (1999-2004), and Chief of Staff to the Dean at the OSU College of Medicine (1997-1999).
Greg has a Masters in Philosophy from George Washington University and Bachelors in Economics from Miami University.
Beth Nelson
Medicaid Development Director
ClearStone Solutions
Beth Nelson brings more than 30 years of experience in home and community based waivers, health care financing, long term care policy, and Medicare and Medicaid managed care programs policy. She has successfully implemented Medicaid managed care and Special Needs Plans (SNP’s) in 87 counties and understands how counties and states can successfully develop and implement health care programs and policy. Beth is a skilled strategic planner and has years of Medicaid contract development experience.
Ms. Nelson has also served on a number of state and regional boards, including a nine-year term on the governor appointed Minnesota Board on Aging, serving as the president of the Minnesota Social Services Association, state president of the Area Agency on Aging, and regional president of the Great Lakes AAA Directors’ Association. Ms. Nelson received her Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Minnesota, Morris, Minnesota.
Medicaid Development Director
ClearStone Solutions
Beth Nelson brings more than 30 years of experience in home and community based waivers, health care financing, long term care policy, and Medicare and Medicaid managed care programs policy. She has successfully implemented Medicaid managed care and Special Needs Plans (SNP’s) in 87 counties and understands how counties and states can successfully develop and implement health care programs and policy. Beth is a skilled strategic planner and has years of Medicaid contract development experience.
Ms. Nelson has also served on a number of state and regional boards, including a nine-year term on the governor appointed Minnesota Board on Aging, serving as the president of the Minnesota Social Services Association, state president of the Area Agency on Aging, and regional president of the Great Lakes AAA Directors’ Association. Ms. Nelson received her Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Minnesota, Morris, Minnesota.
Henry W. Osowski
Managing Director
Strategic Health Group LLC
Formerly, as Senior Vice President Corporate Development, he was a key member of the senior leadership team that the company from a near death experience to an exceptionally strong financial position. He led SCAN Group’s efforts to expand into seven additional California counties. Hank also led SCAN’s entry into Arizona and served as the initial President of SCAN Health Plan Arizona and SCAN Long Term Care. The service area expansions represent approximately a quarter of SCAN’s membership and added nearly $450 million to SCAN’s revenue. He also led the organization’s strategic planning efforts and initiated an innovation development regimen to seek improvements in care coordination practices and future care outcome protocols.
Prior to SCAN, Hank served as a Principal in a national health care consulting organization providing a range of strategic, financial and development services for health plans, physician groups and hospitals. He began his California career as a member of the senior management team responsible for the turnaround and financial survival of Blue Cross of California. In this capacity, Hank led the financial turnaround of the Individual and Small Group Division and provided leadership to the organization’s strategic planning efforts.
Earlier he served as Vice President International Operations for American Family Life Assurance Corporation where he directed the activities of the company’s Canadian and European operations. In this role he directed the development of start-up operations in the United Kingdom, Germany and Italy, as well as the financial turnaround of the company’s Canadian operations. Earlier, Hank also served as Director of Insurance Consulting Services for Coopers and Lybrand, a predecessor to PriceWaterhouse Coopers.
Throughout his career, he has been a frequent speaker on critical issues and challenges facing the Medicare and Medicaid programs. In 2011, Hank spoke to the Managed Medicaid Congress about principles for structuring effective long term care programs, to the Medicare Market Innovations conference about opportunities for strengthening a plan’s five star quality rating and offered his strategic projections for the future of Medicare. He also spoke to a diverse health care and technology audience at the Healthcare Unbound conference about leveraging the power of technology to improve the quality of health outcomes and care interventions.
Janet Parenteau
Business Solutions Director, Care Management
DST Health Solutions Janet Parenteau currently holds the position of Director with the Care Management Group at DST Health Solutions (DSTHS)and is integrally involved in the development and execution of the DSTHS’care management product strategy. She is currently focused on identifying opportunities in support of Accountable Care Organizations and Medical Homes. In her 11 year tenure with DSTHS, Janet has served as the Marketing and Sales Support Director for DSTHS’ health plan administrative systems as well as Senior Product Solutions Manager. Prior to her coming to DSTHS, Janet was the Director of Market Strategy and Product Solutions Director for several leading Health Care Information Technology companies.
Business Solutions Director, Care Management
DST Health Solutions Janet Parenteau currently holds the position of Director with the Care Management Group at DST Health Solutions (DSTHS)and is integrally involved in the development and execution of the DSTHS’care management product strategy. She is currently focused on identifying opportunities in support of Accountable Care Organizations and Medical Homes. In her 11 year tenure with DSTHS, Janet has served as the Marketing and Sales Support Director for DSTHS’ health plan administrative systems as well as Senior Product Solutions Manager. Prior to her coming to DSTHS, Janet was the Director of Market Strategy and Product Solutions Director for several leading Health Care Information Technology companies.
Karen Parker
Director, Bureau of Medicaid Financial Management and Administrative Services
State of MichiganMs. Parker is the Director of the Bureau of Financial Management and Administrative Services for the Medical Services Administration, Department of Community Health (DCH). In this position, she over sees the development and implementation of reimbursement guidelines for hospitals, clinics and nursing facilities. She also oversees the processing of all provider settlements, Medicaid payments and Third Party Liability activities. Ms. Parker has had management responsibilities in the Provider Relations, Medicaid Integrity Program and Third Party Liability. That experience was invaluable in a number of ways. It required an understanding of the Medicaid program from different perspectives and sensitivity to the challenges faced by Medicaid providers.
Director, Bureau of Medicaid Financial Management and Administrative Services
State of MichiganMs. Parker is the Director of the Bureau of Financial Management and Administrative Services for the Medical Services Administration, Department of Community Health (DCH). In this position, she over sees the development and implementation of reimbursement guidelines for hospitals, clinics and nursing facilities. She also oversees the processing of all provider settlements, Medicaid payments and Third Party Liability activities. Ms. Parker has had management responsibilities in the Provider Relations, Medicaid Integrity Program and Third Party Liability. That experience was invaluable in a number of ways. It required an understanding of the Medicaid program from different perspectives and sensitivity to the challenges faced by Medicaid providers.
Scott P. Polansky
Chief of Business Development
Boston Medical Center HealthNet Plan Scott Polansky is Chief of Business Development for Boston Medical Center HealthNet Plan (BMCHP) in Boston, MA. BMCHP serves almost 250,000 members and is the 4th largest HMO in Massachusetts.
He brings over 25 years experience in managed care operations and strategy to his current position and is responsible for leading BMCHP’s efforts to diversify and expand new and current lines of business. Scott is responsible for the expansion into Commercial products and is driving the launch of that product line. He is also identifying and developing short and long term strategies for BMCHP to continue as a successful MCO.
Before joining BMCHP, Scott led product development at Harvard Pilgrim Health Care where he was responsible for developing and launching all Harvard Pilgrim products. Scott successfully managed the introduction of the first deductible HMO products in Massachusetts, tiered copay products, the first debit card program in the region, and a broad suite of consumer driven products including HRAs and HSAs.
Before joining Harvard Pilgrim, Scott served as chief operating officer of Maven Systems, a software vendor providing solutions for Medicare+Choice plans. Previously, he was a consultant with ML Strategies in Boston and Scheur Management Group in Newton. As a consultant, Scott worked with numerous hospital, physician, and managed care clients as a marketing and financial expert. He also developed many senior management training programs. Scott has also been an account executive with a decision support software vendor, and worked for both Matthew Thornton Health Plan in Nashua, New Hampshire and Harvard Community Health Plan in the marketing and underwriting areas.
Scott received his M.S.P.H in Health Planning and Policy analysis from UCLA and has an undergraduate degree from Hobart College in Geneva, NY. He is a frequent presenter both locally and nationally on managed care product development, marketing and finance.
Chief of Business Development
Boston Medical Center HealthNet Plan Scott Polansky is Chief of Business Development for Boston Medical Center HealthNet Plan (BMCHP) in Boston, MA. BMCHP serves almost 250,000 members and is the 4th largest HMO in Massachusetts.
He brings over 25 years experience in managed care operations and strategy to his current position and is responsible for leading BMCHP’s efforts to diversify and expand new and current lines of business. Scott is responsible for the expansion into Commercial products and is driving the launch of that product line. He is also identifying and developing short and long term strategies for BMCHP to continue as a successful MCO.
Before joining BMCHP, Scott led product development at Harvard Pilgrim Health Care where he was responsible for developing and launching all Harvard Pilgrim products. Scott successfully managed the introduction of the first deductible HMO products in Massachusetts, tiered copay products, the first debit card program in the region, and a broad suite of consumer driven products including HRAs and HSAs.
Before joining Harvard Pilgrim, Scott served as chief operating officer of Maven Systems, a software vendor providing solutions for Medicare+Choice plans. Previously, he was a consultant with ML Strategies in Boston and Scheur Management Group in Newton. As a consultant, Scott worked with numerous hospital, physician, and managed care clients as a marketing and financial expert. He also developed many senior management training programs. Scott has also been an account executive with a decision support software vendor, and worked for both Matthew Thornton Health Plan in Nashua, New Hampshire and Harvard Community Health Plan in the marketing and underwriting areas.
Scott received his M.S.P.H in Health Planning and Policy analysis from UCLA and has an undergraduate degree from Hobart College in Geneva, NY. He is a frequent presenter both locally and nationally on managed care product development, marketing and finance.
Garry Raim
Partner, EVP of Direct and Interactive Marketing
GKV
Garry leads the Direct Marketing and Interactive disciplines at GKV. He has a deep and successful track record of helping commercial, not-for-profit and government health care and insurance clients effectively reach and motivate consumers to action. During his 25 plus years of experience, he has led marketing strategy development for Coventry Health Care, PacifiCare Secure Horizons and Elderplan. He also was the agency principal who managed the launch of the Medicare Prescription Drug Program for CMS. His client-side experience includes CareFirst BCBSMD where as CMO of the Consumer Division, he introduced a multi-channel marketing platform and helped develop a wide range of individual insurance that drove strong growth of the division. He also taught at the Purdue University Certified Health Consultant Program.
Robin Raveendran
Chief Program Administrator
Arkansas Department of Human Services, Division of Medical Services - Program Integrity Unit
Robin Raveendran, Chief Program Administrator, Arkansas Department of Human Service, Program Integrity Unit. Robin is the Chief Program Administrator with Arkansas Department of Human Service, Division of Medical Services – Program Integrity Unit. Robin has over 26 years of audit experience, before joining the Medicaid Program Integrity Unit, Robin worked for the Department of Human Services as a Senior auditor for 20 years specializing in single audits of not for profit organizations. Robin has also served as regional and National Board of Association of Governmental Accountants, in various capacities for several years, in addition he also represented the organization in various volunteer activities. Robin holds an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering and a BS in Business Administration with emphasis in Accounting. He also holds several Audit Certifications from USDA Graduate School.
Chief Program Administrator
Arkansas Department of Human Services, Division of Medical Services - Program Integrity Unit
Robin Raveendran, Chief Program Administrator, Arkansas Department of Human Service, Program Integrity Unit. Robin is the Chief Program Administrator with Arkansas Department of Human Service, Division of Medical Services – Program Integrity Unit. Robin has over 26 years of audit experience, before joining the Medicaid Program Integrity Unit, Robin worked for the Department of Human Services as a Senior auditor for 20 years specializing in single audits of not for profit organizations. Robin has also served as regional and National Board of Association of Governmental Accountants, in various capacities for several years, in addition he also represented the organization in various volunteer activities. Robin holds an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering and a BS in Business Administration with emphasis in Accounting. He also holds several Audit Certifications from USDA Graduate School.
Michael Richards
Executive Director, Government Relations and External Affairs
Gundersen Lutheran Health System In the role of executive director of Government Relations and External Affairs, Michael Richards oversees Government Relations, Public Relations and Community and Preventive Care Services. Michael accepted the position of executive director of Government Relations and External Affairs in July 2010. Prior to his position at Gundersen Lutheran, Michael was the director of Government Affairs for Harley-Davidson, working in all 50 states and at the federal level. He has also worked in Wisconsin State Government where he played an important role in a variety of public policy issues including the state budget. Michael holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Legal Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire along with a master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. He currently serves on the La Crosse County Economic Development Fund Committee and the La Crosse Chamber of Commerce Government Action Committee.
Executive Director, Government Relations and External Affairs
Gundersen Lutheran Health System In the role of executive director of Government Relations and External Affairs, Michael Richards oversees Government Relations, Public Relations and Community and Preventive Care Services. Michael accepted the position of executive director of Government Relations and External Affairs in July 2010. Prior to his position at Gundersen Lutheran, Michael was the director of Government Affairs for Harley-Davidson, working in all 50 states and at the federal level. He has also worked in Wisconsin State Government where he played an important role in a variety of public policy issues including the state budget. Michael holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Legal Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire along with a master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. He currently serves on the La Crosse County Economic Development Fund Committee and the La Crosse Chamber of Commerce Government Action Committee.
Robert Robidou
Director, Network Development
Cook Children’s Health Plan
He has over 20 years of Managed Care Experience which includes the successful development of three start up HMO programs, National and regional contracting for all types of services. Negotiations include Commercial payors, CHIP and Medicaid contracting, Employer direct contracting, National Transplant Networks, Case specific relationships and joint venture partnerships.
Cheryl Slagle, RN, CMCN, CCM
Vice President, Health Services
CareSource
Debra Smyers
Senior Director, Program Development for Medicaid, Special Needs Plan, and CHIP
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Health Plan
Ms. Smyers has over 20 years of experience as a health care administrator in a managed care environment. She has had experience in quality improvement and the management of chronic conditions and promoting preventive health. Ms. Smyers has worked with many community agencies to help support the social needs of the members. She has developed programs that have improved the Health Plan’s rates for the Health Plan Employer Data Information Set (HEDIS) measures and met the standards for National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA).
Ms. Smyers holds a Bachelor of Science Registered Nurse degree from the University of Pittsburgh -1975.
Hoa Su, MPH
Manager of Health Education
Health Net, Inc.
Hoa Su, MPH, is Manager of Health Education at Health Net, Inc. and has been with Health Net’s Medicaid program for five years. Mr. Su holds a Master of Public Health degree in community health sciences from University of California, Los Angeles and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from University of California, Los Angeles. Mr. Su has fifteen years of experience in health care management, program planning and development, implementation and evaluation. In his current position, Mr. Su is responsible for the planning and administration of health education programs for Health Net’s Medi-Cal, Healthy Families, Healthy Kids and Access for Infants and Mothers programs in California. Mr. Su establishes standards and ensures implementation and compliance to meet Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), Managed Risk Medical Insurance Board (MRMIB), and National Committee on Quality Assurance (NCQA) contractual/accreditation requirements.
Prior to Health Net, Mr. Su was the Immunization Program and Immunization Coalition Coordinator for the City of Pasadena Public Health Department and the Regional Training Coordinator for Richard Heath & Associates Inc. to train Certified Application Assistants for the Healthy Families Program.
Pamela Tropiano, RN, CCM, BSN, MPA,
Senior Vice President, Health Services
CareSource
With over 29 years experience in nursing, 20 in health care administration, Pamela Tropiano has an in-depth understanding of the challenges facing Medicaid and Medicare recipients both from the provider and payer side. She is currently Vice President of Health Services at CareSource, a not-for-profit Medicaid Managed Care HMO in the States of Ohio and Michigan. Her responsibilities include executive leadership over care management, medical management, quality improvement, and 24 hour nurse triage; as well as designing innovative programs to help better serve the needs of Medicaid/Medicare members while driving financial efficiency. Before her role at CareSource, she held senior-level positions at various health care focused companies. Pam has extensive experience in palliative care, hospice care, home care, and pain management. She holds a B.S. in Nursing from Ursuline College as well as a Masters in Public Administration/Health Care Administration from Cleveland State University.
Richard Yadon
President and CEO
Managed Medicaid Services
Richard Yadon is President and CEO of Managed Medicaid Services. In this role he is responsible for directing growth initiatives including marketing, sales, customer service and new product development efforts that deliver high-value outcomes for Managed Care Organizations.
Prior to founding Managed Medicaid Services, Yadon held several executive level management positions with insurance companies such as Prudential, Willis, Met Life and AIM Healthcare Services. His background includes 25 years of experience with Medicaid, Medicare, and commercial health plans. His career has focused on business development, strategic planning, operations, and revenue cycle management. Yadon has recruited, managed and built teams with hundreds of field personnel and has had budgetary responsibility in excess of $18,000,000. He has played key roles in expanding revenue and increasing profitability.
Prior to starting his career in the healthcare industry Yadon served 17 years active and reserve in the U.S. Navy surface and submarine forces. Yadon is the recipient of the Meritorious Service Award, Navy Expeditionary Medal (Lebanon), and Navy Achievement Medal. Yadon is an alumni of Williamson Christian College and the University of North Florida.
In his spare time he has run two marathons, skydived, lived in nine states, traveled to 37 states, visited 10 countries, and refereed high school football. Yadon serves his church as a lay teacher, leadership committee member, Deacon, and as the leader of the men’s ministry department.
Yadon resides in Franklin TN, and has been married for 28 years. He and his wife have two adult children.
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