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2015

Presentations


7:30 am – 8:30 am CT

Registration & Executive Networking Breakfast In The Institute Exhibit Hall

Networking

Studies have shown that people who skip breakfast are more likely to have problems focusing on the day at hand. Avoid the struggle, and join us for breakfast in the Exhibit Hall! After you check in at the Registration Desk, grab something to eat and take the time to meet your fellow attendees.

Registration & Executive Networking Breakfast In The Institute Exhibit Hall

Networking

Studies have shown that people who skip breakfast are more likely to have problems focusing on the day at hand. Avoid the struggle, and join us for breakfast in the Exhibit Hall! After you check in at the Registration Desk, grab something to eat and take the time to meet your fellow attendees.


8:30 am – 9:30 am CT

The Innovations In Medicaid Managed Care Shaping The Current & Future Market

Keynote Address

This has been a year of transition for Medicaid systems across the country. Enrollment has increased due to health care reform, managed care programs have expanded to include new populations and services, and models for managing consumers with complex conditions are on the rise. In this exciting keynote address, Jeff M. Myers, president and CEO of Medicaid Health Plans of America (MHPA), the leading national trade association for Medicaid managed care organizations, will open the institute with a discussion on the system changes that are shaping the Medicaid. Mr. Myers will review some of the new initiatives that his association and its members are exploring and what he sees as the big changes effecting the future of the Medicaid system.

Jeff M. Myers

Jeff Myers is the president and CEO at Medicaid Health Plans of America (MHPA), the leading national trade association for Medicaid managed care organizations. Mr. Myers serves as the primary spokesperson for the Medicaid health plan industry before Congress, the executive branch, state governments, and the media. Mr. Myers is responsible for demonstrating the value of Medicaid managed care to these audiences as well as opening new markets for Medicaid health plan business. He also leads advocacy efforts in advancing an aggressive policy agenda on behalf of the industry.

A government affairs veteran, Mr. Myers comes to MHPA from the American Health Care Association (AHCA), where he was senior vice president of policy and government relations. Prior to AHCA he represented pharmaceutical companies like Cephalon, Biogen Idec, Pharmacia, and Hoffman-LaRoche before the legislative and executive branches. His time on Capitol Hill included serving as U.S. Representative Fred Upton’s legislative director and health staff for the Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, and working for U.S. Representatives Don Sundquist and Alex McMillan. While at McMillan’s office, Mr. Myers led McMillan’s health staff during the attempt at health reform in 1994.

Mr. Myers received his MBA from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke and his bachelor’s degree from Rhodes College in Memphis. He lives in McLean, Virginia with his wife and three children.


9:45 am – 11:00 am CT

How To Create Successful Partnerships With Managed Care Organizations: What Payers Are Looking For In Integrated Service Delivery & Coordinated Care Management

Breakout Session

For executives of provider organizations, strategically navigating relationships with payers is increasingly complex. New integrated care management models, in combination with a push towards value-based care, is changing the way provider organizations work with payers – moving from a “vendor” relationship to a “partner” relationship. In this crucial session, we will discuss the market push towards integrated care management and integrated service delivery, and review how provider organizations can develop successful partnerships with payers in an integration-focused market.

Steve Ramsland, Ed.D.

Steven Ramsland, Ed.D. has more than 25 years of experience in the development and delivery of health and human service programs. He has held senior leadership positions in the development of several innovative service systems including Medicare Shared Savings Program ACOs, a primary care provider network, several national managed behavioral health initiatives, and innovative community programming.

Dr. Ramsland recently served as chief executive officer at Redwood Community Health, a network of 17 community health centers, with over 40 sites in northern California. The organization provides primary care, behavioral health and oral health to over 240,000 patients each year. While at Redwood he managed the implementation of an ACO, a capitated Medicaid managed care contract, and a pay-for-performance quality improvement program.

Prior to this, he was the executive director of Buckelew Programs, a leading provider of community-based, recovery-oriented behavioral health programs in Northern California. The organization provides supported housing and employment, and recovery supports, as well as two social enterprise businesses.

Dr. Ramsland was previously vice president and practice leader for United Behavioral Health’s Public Sector Practice (now Optum).   In that role, he analyzed opportunities and implemented strategies to expand public sector business – and collaborated with executive leadership at United to design and build organizational capabilities in public sector behavioral health, disease management, and consumer-directed care to support revenue growth.

In addition to his work with Optum, Dr. Ramsland also served as the chief development officer and Public Sector President for Comprehensive Behavioral Care, and as vice president, Government Programs, for ValueOptions. He has worked with government policy leaders throughout the nation to develop new, recovery-oriented approaches to delivering behavioral health and integrated medical services. He was also the Chief Executive Officer of a community mental health center, SERV Behavioral Health in New Jersey.

Dr. Ramsland earned a Doctoral Degree in Psychology from Rutgers University, a Master’s Degree in Psychology from Duquesne University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and English from Trinity College.

D. Bruce Condit RN, BSN, CCM

Mr. Condit is the Head of Behavioral Health Program Development for Aetna Behavioral Health, reporting directly to the Chief Medical Officer. His psychiatric nursing career includes work in the Pennsylvania State Hospital system, as well as clinical roles in both adult and adolescent residential treatment. He has been involved in managed behavioral healthcare for over 16 years, developing experience in the areas of utilization management, network development, appeals and program development, with an emphasis on the use of technology. He is a Certified Case Manager, as well as a member of the American Telemedicine Association and the American Organization of Nurse Executives.

William Bonfield, M.D., MPH

William C. Bonfield M.D., M.P.H. is the Chief Medical Officer, Optum Behavioral Solutions. In this role, he oversees the development of clinical strategy, including clinical vision. He supervises Quality Management, Consumer Affairs, and Clinical Policy and Training.

Dr. Bonfield has 43 years of experience in health care, 24 years in clinical practice and provider administration and 19 years in managed care. Before coming to Optum, he served as Chief Medical Officer of the Maricopa County Regional Behavioral Health Authority, the largest Medicaid behavioral health carve out in the country. In this position, he managed the Medical Affairs Department, Pharmacy Department, Medical and Nursing Staff, and the Quality Management Department.

Prior to this role, Dr. Bonfield held senior leadership positions in managed care organizations and mental healthcare facilities and delivery systems. He also maintained a private clinical and consulting practice and served as a management resource to health care providers focusing on program design, professional staff relations, physician recruitment, and quality improvement.

The OPEN MINDS Guide To Strategic Planning: How To Find The Right Path For Your Organization In A Turbulent Market

Breakout Session

If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will get you there; but in an increasingly competitive health care environment, your organization can’t afford to wander aimlessly. This session will provide you with a strategic planning “roadmap” that outlines the OPEN MINDS’ approach to successful strategic planning. We will discuss why organizations need an externally-focused, resource-based approach to strategic planning, best practices in strategic plan development, and the keys to success in strategic plan implementation.

Joseph P. Naughton-Travers, EdM

Joseph P. Naughton-Travers, EdM, Senior Associate, has more than 30 years of experience in the health and human service field. In this tenure as senior associate with OPEN MINDS since 1998, he has served as lead of dozens of client initiatives, served as editor of OPEN MINDS publications, and is the author of many groundbreaking articles and presentations.

Mr. Naughton-Travers brings to OPEN MINDS a broad range of experiences in private and public sector delivery of behavioral health and social services. He started his career as a behavioral health clinician, working in both child welfare and community mental health clinic settings. Subsequently, Mr. Naughton-Travers held a senior business operations management position for a psychiatric hospital system and its community mental health clinics.  Later, he was vice president of a firm specializing in information systems and billing and receivables management for community-based mental health programs.

Since joining OPEN MINDS, Mr. Naughton-Travers has developed business solutions for provider and professional organizations, state and county government, technology companies, and venture capital firms. His primary areas of expertise include strategic planning and metrics-based management, electronic health record (EHR) and technology selection and implementation, operations improvement, and corporate compliance. For the past decade, over half his consulting practice has focused on aiding organizations in technology selection and implementation, including all aspects of strategic technology planning, functional specifications development, request for proposal development, vendor selection, and contracting.

He has written numerous articles, including “Winning the Human Resource Wars: Tried, True and New Strategies for Behavioral Health and Social Service Organizations,” “Five Pillars of Management Competency,” “Data Driven Decision Making: Moving to an Organizational Measurement Culture,” “Survival of the Smartest: What is Your Organization’s Information Literacy IQ?,” and “Strategic Human Resource Management: Aligning Compensation with Employee Performance and Organizational Strategy.” Mr. Naughton-Travers is also a nationally recognized speaker, having conducted hundreds of executive and professional executive training events around the nation.

Mr. Naughton-Travers received his Bachelor’s degree from Miami University of Ohio and his Masters’ of Education in Counseling Psychology from Boston University.

John F. Talbot, Ph.D.

John Talbot, Ph.D. has more than 30 years’ experience in all aspects of health care, including upper management, consultation, education, direct clinical work, and serving as the president of a non-profit board.

Dr. Talbot is currently Vice President of Corporate Strategy at Jefferson Center for Mental Health (JCMH) in Denver, Colorado. In this role, he is responsible for the development and implementation of corporate strategy, strategic alliances and new product development. Dr. Talbot also served as the Vice President of Integration Development for JCMH where he led all new business development opportunities in integrated care and participated in region wide and statewide initiatives.

Prior to his current role, Dr. Talbot served as an Executive Vice President for OPEN MINDS for eight years and provided consultation, training and operational assistance to behavioral health providers, nonprofit organizations, and managed care organizations across the country. His areas of focus for consultation and training include strategic planning, the development of successful strategic alliances, board development, organizational reengineering, operations management, management and leadership development, and change management.

Previously, Dr. Talbot served as the President of Colorado Care Management, a network of agencies providing care to children and families. Dr. Talbot led the development of a coalition of Colorado business executives to address the issues of providing care to abused and neglected children, and the establishment of a nationwide purchasing cooperative for non-profits. The innovative work of Colorado Care Management received national recognition, including participation in a Federal IV-E waiver study that demonstrated measurable superior clinical outcomes.

Dr. Talbot’s additional experience includes serving as the Associate Dean of Operations, the Director of the Master of Health Systems Program, and Adjunct Faculty for University College, University of Denver. He also held a senior management position at Mount Airy Psychiatric Center in Denver, Colorado.

Dr. Talbot has been a featured speaker at a number of national and state venues, and is the former publisher and editor of Today’s Healthcare Manager, a newsletter focusing on leadership and management skills for healthcare managers, and has written numerous articles, manuals, and book chapters.

Dr. Talbot received his Ph.D. from the University of Denver, Master of Occupational Therapy from Western Michigan University, and Bachelor of Science from Loyola University.

Caring For Seniors In The Community – An Innovative, Evidence-Based Approach

Knowledge Partner

Sponsored By Senior Reach

It is estimated that by 2030, Americans aged 65 years and older will account for about 20% of the population, and caring for this growing population presents its own set of unique challenges. To better serve the complex needs of this population, Senior Reach has developed a community-based, program that utilizes existing community resources to provide cost-effective behavioral health and care management services to seniors living in the community. The Senior Reach approach has demonstrated positive outcomes and is recognized as an evidence-based practice through the SAMHSA National Registry of Evidence Based Programs and Practices (NREPP). In this can’t-miss session, we’ll discuss the unique challenges in caring for the senior population, the Senior Reach model for innovative service delivery, and how you can implement a successful model of collaborative care for seniors in your community.

Nicole M. Hartog

Nicole M. Hartog worked for 3 years as the Community Resource Program Manager with the Denver Regional Council of Government’s Area Agency on Aging (AAA).  While at the AAA, Nicole developed, implemented, and managed the Aging and Disability Resources for Colorado (ADRC) program to provide referrals and options counseling to both older adults and adults with disabilities.  In addition, she managed DRCOG’s Elder Refugee grant program.  Nicole currently serves on the board of directors for Atlantis Community, Inc., the second-oldest Independent Living Center in the Nation.   Previously, Nicole was a Geriatric Care Manager for Seniors’ Resource Center where she worked with older adults and their caregivers to provide in-home assessments and person-centered care plans.  Nicole has presented Aging Well sessions at several national conferences including the 2013 AIRS Educational Symposium, and is a frequent guest lecturer at both University of Denver and Metro State University’s MSW programs.  In 2011, Nicole received a Professional Advancement Certificate in Gerontology from University of Colorado, Colorado Springs,  and is pursuing her Master’s in Public Administration.

Darla Gurry, LCSW

Darla Gurry is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with almost 25 years of broad experience in a variety of health care settings.   As Senior Reach National Consultant, she promotes the replication of Senior Reach, a recognized Evidence Based Practice by NREPP (National Registry of Evidence Based Programs & Practices) and provides training and technical assistance to communities actively implementing Senior Reach.  Darla earned her BA degree in Psychology from the University of Connecticut and her Masters Degree in Social Work from Southern Connecticut State University; she is also a Certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor.


11:15 am – 12:30 pm CT

Mastering The Art Of Delivering Home-Based Services: Changing Management Models & Consumer Engagement

Breakout Session

In today’s health care market, there are two parallel paths leading towards home-based care – the proliferation of new technologies that allow for less restrictive care environments and the increase of policy and payer interest in home and community-based service models as a cost saving measure. These issues, coupled with increasing consumer desire for more home- and community-based care, have led to a new service delivery landscape. In this session, we’ll discuss the continued policy push towards home- and community-based care, and explore what these changes mean for organizations serving consumers with chronic conditions. The session will cover the financing and policy issues leading to an increase in home- and community-based care and include provider organization case studies on home-based care delivery models.

Lora Perry

Coming Soon!

William E. Reay, Ph.D.

William (Bill) Reay has been a national leader in mental health and behavioral health services practice and research for more than 25 years. As one of the original Child and Adolescent Service System Program (CASSP) developers, Bill was associated with both child and family research centers in Portland, Oregon and Tampa, Florida, and Georgetown University. Bill was one of the founding members of the National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health, Washington, D.C. and has been central to organizing parents across the United States to improve mental health care for children. Bill is one of the original leaders and visionaries for the System-of-Care development and movement in the United States and served as a professional research member of the United States Department of Education’s evaluation team for the two (2) Research and Training Centers.

Bill received his Master of Arts degree in Quantitative Psychology from the University of Nebraska, Department of Psychology at Omaha. He received his Ph.D. in psychology with a minor in law from the University of Nebraska, combined Department of Law and Psychology, College of Law, Lincoln Nebraska. Bill has written numerous professional articles on a variety of subjects associated with public health and behavioral health services.

Bill is also a Professor of Psychology and Business for Northcentral University, Scottsdale Arizona, where he designs and develops international graduate student exchanges between the United States and other countries. In addition, Bill is the President of the Coalition for Research to Practice, a multi-university research initiative aimed at improving the alignment between graduate education and work-force needs. Bill is an Adjunct Professor of Psychology at the University of Nebraska, Department of Law and Psychology; a Visiting Professor of Psychology at the University of Havana, Havana Cuba and Visiting Professor of Business at Irkutsk State University, Russian Federation, Eastern Siberia, and past visiting scientist at Vanderbilt University.

Internationally, Bill consults with businesses and academic institutions in the European Union and the Caribbean. Most recently Bill has established contractual arrangements with The University of Havana, The Pedagogical University of Cuba, Havana, Cuba and the Cuban Center of Sociological and Psychological Research. Bill is a frequent lecturer in Havana regarding reform related academic considerations.

A Health Home Update: Where Are Payers & Policymakers With Health Homes?

Breakout Session

Lots of state Medicaid plans have moved ahead with health homes. As of March 2015, 16 states had adopted Medicaid health homes and another eight have started the design and approval process for implementing health homes in their states. This is a trend that we expect to continue, as more states look to medical and health homes as their preferred model of care coordination. This adds up to lots of activity, and lots of spending. The big question is, are health homes working? In this session, we’ll hear from states that have successfully implemented health homes – and discuss their challenges, their outcomes, and their plans for the future.

George Braunstein, M.A., FACHE

George Braunstein, FACHE, M.A., Senior Associate, brings more than 35 years of experience in leading both private and public sector health and human services organizations – in both institutional and ambulatory settings.

Prior to joining OPEN MINDS, Mr. Braunstein served as executive director of the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) in Fairfax, Virginia, which provides community-based mental health, substance abuse and developmental disabled services. During his six-year tenure with the CSB, which had a $150+ million budget and over 1,200 employees, he both reduced the budget and increased service access.  Mr. Braunstein also developed the organization’s first fully integrated service model that is combined mental health, substance use treatment and primary care services.

Before his role in Fairfax County, Mr. Braunstein was the executive director of the Chesterfield County CSB. In his eight years in that role, he restructured management to flatten the organization, which improved both service and budget performance and eliminated a $1.5 million deficit with no reductions in staff.

Mr. Braunstein also served as the head of behavioral health for Aurora Healthcare in Milwaukee – the largest integrated healthcare system in Wisconsin with 13 hospitals, 20,000 employees and $1.5 billion in annual revenue. He was responsible for the management of all aspects of a $40 million dollar, 800-employee multi-site integrated behavioral health service delivery system.  And, Mr. Braunstein brings managed care experience to the OPEN MINDS team, having served as the director of behavioral health for Family Health Plan Cooperative, a Wisconsin HMO.

Well respected in the behavioral health community, Mr. Braunstein has served on several boards of local and national associations including the SAMHSA National Leadership Council, and the National Association of Community Behavioral Health. He is also a fellow with the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Mr. Braunstein received his Master of Science in Community Mental Health Nursing from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and his Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Wisconsin. He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in History Education from Rockford College. Additionally, Mr. Braunstein completed psychotherapy training from the Family Studies Center at Northwestern University.

Morgan Cole

Morgan Cole is the Lead Health Policy Analyst with Maryland Medicaid’s Behavioral Health Division. Ms. Cole received a BA from Dartmouth College, after which she served as a community health specialist with the U.S. Peace Corps in Burkina Faso. Ms. Cole has worked internationally and domestically with rural health practices, FQHC’s, and non-profit organizations to increase access to health and social support services in underserved communities.

After earning a Master of Public Policy from Johns Hopkins University, she joined the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. While at DHMH, Ms. Cole has led the development and implementation of statewide behavioral health initiatives including Health Homes and the 1915(i) Intensive Services for Children and Youth, as well as supporting Maryland’s integration of mental health and substance use disorder services.

Rick Hoffmeister, BSN, RN

Rick Hoffmeister is a registered nurse with over 25 years nursing experience with acute and residential psychiatric nursing, home health nursing, hospice case management and long term care. Prior to coming back to State employment, he was a Clinical Care Coordinator for Kansas Health Solutions which managed the mental health benefits for Kansas Medicaid members. Mr. Hoffmeister currently works as the Health Homes Manager for the State of Kansas and is on the State team that is working on the implementation of Health Homes in Kansas.

Best Practice Population Health Management: Achieving The Triple Aim By Moving Decision Support To Provider Organizations

Knowledge Partner

Sponsored By Care Management Technologies

As we move to more value-based purchasing (from P4P, to case rates, to capitation) in the U.S. health care system, the challenge for provider organizations is to improve outcomes and reduce costs – to do this, executive teams must assure that clinical professionals have the tools they need to make effective and efficient recommendations about consumer care. The question is, how do we move from the antiquated model of telephone-based care plan authorizations, to empowering clinical professionals with the information to make those decisions? In this session, we’ll discuss the importance of data and analytics to population health management and how shifting decision support to the provider-level can improve care. We’ll also hear from executives of two organizations that are moving decision making to the front line through analytics-informed tools – and learn more about how to integrate decision support into your clinical workflows.

Dan Chateau, PhD

Dan Chateau is a Research Scientist at the Manitoba Centre for Health Policy (MCHP) and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Community Health Sciences at University of Manitoba. He completed a PhD in Cognitive Psychology at the University of Western Ontario, and has conducted research at both MCHP, and as a consultant in the Biostatistics Consulting Unit in the College of Medicine. These positions provided a strong base in health services research and quantitative research methods. Dr. Chateau has worked on a broad range of projects with regional and provincial health services departments, including Manitoba Health and the Canadian Science Centre for Human and Animal Health, and with numerous clinicians, such as ICU specialists, pharmacists, nurses, and members of other departments at the University of Manitoba and beyond. In addition to contributing to numerous reports and projects at MCHP, at present Dan is a national steering committee member for the Canadian Network of Observational Drugs Effect Studies (CNODES), and a co-PI on a large multi-year grant investigating the effects of policies and interventions on health equity in Manitoba’s children.

Michael E. Smith, MD

Dr. Michael Smith is the Chief Medical Officer for East Carolina Behavioral Health located in Greenville, NC. He has been with ECBH since July of 2013 and leads the Medical Affairs Division of ECBH.  Dr. Smith is a Board-Certified Adult Psychiatrist and Fellowship trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.  He joined ECBH after 20 years of private practice in eastern North Carolina.   Dr. Smith received his undergraduate and medical degrees from East Carolina University and also serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Brody School of Medicine in the Department of Psychiatry.

 

Jackie Fedash Beck, MS, LPCS, NCC, LCASPA

Jackie Beck has worked with East Carolina Behavioral Health since 2010.  Currently Jackie is the Medicaid Contract Manager.  Prior to becoming the Medicaid Contract manager she was the Adult MH/SU Care Coordination Manager at ECBH.   Ms. Beck supervises provisional clinicians who work with providers and community partners to ensure that the needs of individuals are accurately identified and that the behavioral health needs of the individual is met.   As well as partnering with the Medical Affairs Department to work on special projects that are related to integrated care and data analytics.  Prior to becoming a clinician, Ms. Beck gained 10 years of experience as a classroom teacher and a school counselor in Pitt County, NC.

 


12:30 pm – 2:00 pm CT

Lunch Break

Networking

Lunch On Your Own


12:45 pm – 2:00 pm CT

Focusing The Workforce On Driving The Triple Aim: Tips For The C-Level

Networking

Invitation-Only Lunch Sponsored by Relias Learning

Complimentary lunch included during presentation.


2:00 pm – 3:15 pm CT

The Inside Perspective On Health Homes: Learning From The Experience Of Provider Organizations Who Are Making It Work

Breakout Session

Provider organizations are an essential key to making the health home concept work in any state. Yet successfully navigating this new system can be a challenge for even the most advanced provider – the process of creating and joining a health home requires organizations to add a variety of new processes, track new metrics, and manage new populations in ways that most haven’t before. During this exciting session, we will discuss the challenges and opportunities of operating a health home from provider organizations that have been there – from staffing and reimbursement, to treatment models and care coordination.

George Braunstein, M.A., FACHE

George Braunstein, FACHE, M.A., Senior Associate, brings more than 35 years of experience in leading both private and public sector health and human services organizations – in both institutional and ambulatory settings.

Prior to joining OPEN MINDS, Mr. Braunstein served as executive director of the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) in Fairfax, Virginia, which provides community-based mental health, substance abuse and developmental disabled services. During his six-year tenure with the CSB, which had a $150+ million budget and over 1,200 employees, he both reduced the budget and increased service access.  Mr. Braunstein also developed the organization’s first fully integrated service model that is combined mental health, substance use treatment and primary care services.

Before his role in Fairfax County, Mr. Braunstein was the executive director of the Chesterfield County CSB. In his eight years in that role, he restructured management to flatten the organization, which improved both service and budget performance and eliminated a $1.5 million deficit with no reductions in staff.

Mr. Braunstein also served as the head of behavioral health for Aurora Healthcare in Milwaukee – the largest integrated healthcare system in Wisconsin with 13 hospitals, 20,000 employees and $1.5 billion in annual revenue. He was responsible for the management of all aspects of a $40 million dollar, 800-employee multi-site integrated behavioral health service delivery system.  And, Mr. Braunstein brings managed care experience to the OPEN MINDS team, having served as the director of behavioral health for Family Health Plan Cooperative, a Wisconsin HMO.

Well respected in the behavioral health community, Mr. Braunstein has served on several boards of local and national associations including the SAMHSA National Leadership Council, and the National Association of Community Behavioral Health. He is also a fellow with the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Mr. Braunstein received his Master of Science in Community Mental Health Nursing from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and his Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Wisconsin. He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in History Education from Rockford College. Additionally, Mr. Braunstein completed psychotherapy training from the Family Studies Center at Northwestern University.

Katie Arjes, MS, LBSW, CADC

Katie Arjes, MS, LBSW, CADC is the Supervisor for Black Hawk Grundy Mental Health Center’s Integrated Health Home (IHH) program. She received her Master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling from Drake University and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Northern Iowa. Katie has worked in the mental health or substance abuse field for 14 years with both adults and adolescents. She has also been trained as a psychiatric rehabilitation practitioner.
Katie has worked for Black Hawk Grundy Mental Health Center as the IHH Supervisor since the program began in April 2014. She has helped implement a team based patient-centered approach to empowering members to reach their whole health and wellness goals.

Charmaine Nalty

Coming Soon!

Bruce C. Nisbet, LMSW, DFNAP

Bruce C. Nisbet, LMSW, DFNAP is President and CEO of Spectrum Human Services, a large not-for-profit community mental health agency with diverse treatment, crisis intervention and recovery-oriented programs serving Western New York. In addition, he is President of Health Home Partners of WNY, LLC, a joint venture of Spectrum, the Catholic Health System, and Evergreen Health which together provide intensive State designated Health Home care coordination services to high need, high cost Medicaid recipients in three counties. Prior to Spectrum Nisbet brings thirty years of experience developing, implementing and administering treatment programs for children, adolescents and their families. In 2013 the members of the National Academies of Practice, an organization chartered by Congress and whose members advise Congress on national health care policy, elected Nisbet a member and Distinguished Fellow of the Academies. He is a board member of New York Council for Community Behavioral Health Care as well as founder and Past President of the New York State Coalition of 853 Schools. He sits on the editorial boards of Best Practices in Mental Health and the Journal of Evidence- Based Social Work, and his scholarly interests and publications include the effects of organizational culture and climate on the adoption of evidence-based interventions as well as care coordination strategies facilitating an individual’s mental health recovery goals.

Using Data To Improve Accountability & Outcomes In The Era Of Care Coordination & Value-Based Contracting

Knowledge Partner

Sponsored By eCenter Research

Value-based contracting, care coordination and integration models, person-centered care, increased competition for consumers – in the changing world of health and human services, data is the key to success. But this means more than merely collecting data through electronic health records (EHR), it means creating a system where provider organizations can use data to improve the quality and functioning of service delivery for their consumers. In this exciting session, we’ll discuss how new models of care are transforming the way payers and provider organizations relate to data – and how provider organizations can use data to promote care coordination and drive positive outcomes.

Karen W. Linkins, Ph.D.

Karen W. Linkins, Ph.D. is Co-Founder and Principal of Desert Vista Consulting, based in Scottsdale, Arizona.  She specializes in systems transformation in the health, behavioral health, and human services fields through strategic planning, organizational development, data infrastructure development, measurement, evaluation, and quality improvement.  Dr. Linkins is currently directing the Integrated Behavioral Health Project, funded by the State of California, which aims to spread integrated health care across the state and nationally through capacity building, training, and technical assistance.  Her approach is to advance integrated care by promoting cross-sector accountability among policy makers, funders, and providers to improve health outcomes through delivery system redesign, payment reform, care coordination, and data sharing. Dr. Linkins works to develop strong strategic partnerships across the safety net, which enables community partners to overcome barriers to care and achieve better clinical and economic outcomes.  Dr. Linkins earned her PhD in Medical Sociology at the University of California, San Francisco and an undergraduate degree from Smith College.

Steve Weatherbee, Ed.D.

Dr. Steve Weatherbee is a researcher and President/CEO of eCenter Research. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with an interdisciplinary doctoral degree in Policy and Administration, Public Health, and Social Work.
Dr. Weatherbee manages worldwide distribution of the DUSI-R (multivariate mental health and substance use assessment developed by Dr. Ralph Tarter), works with organizations to conduct specialized research to further develop the practical utility of the DUSI-R (Drug Use Screening Inventory Revised) including culturally sensitive adaptation, prediction of risk for relapse (drug, alcohol), prediction of risk for recidivism (DUI’s, juvenile delinquency), and validation of specialized decision tree models. The DUSI-R enables organizations to efficiently and accurately conduct client intake screening/assessment, monitor client response to treatment, adapt treatment protocols, determine intervention/treatment effectiveness, guide program improvement decisions, and demonstrate accountability through real-time access to client and program outcomes.
Dr. Weatherbee developed eINSIGHT™ for data collection, single portal integration of disparate data sources, and reporting automation. eINSIGHT™ is a HIPAA compliant web-based platform that can be customized to meet the unique needs and challenges of data collection, automated analysis, and client outcomes reporting necessary for compliance with state and federal reporting and performance requirements, and for utilization of data locally for accountability and improvement of service delivery systems. eINSIGHT™ can be securely connected to existing EMR/EHR systems and helps consolidate disparate data sources for advanced customized reporting.

An Update On Pay-For-Success Contracting & Social Impact Bonds: Lessons Learned From Executives Who Are Making It Work

Breakout Session

In today’s competitive environment, non-profit organizations are always looking for new funding strategies – one emerging model that is gaining traction is the social impact bond, or pay-for-success contracts. Under this arrangement, a government agency contracts for a social service through a pay for performance contract with a non-profit intermediary that raises capital from foundations, businesses, and donors. These multi-stakeholder partnerships are managed through a series of contracts with specific goals for program performance. This is the ultimate performance test for any organization, and requires a new level of competency in terms of metrics measurement and metrics-based management. In this session, we’ll cover the ins and outs of this new model and how it is impacting non-profit organizations across the country.

Howard Shiffman

Howard Shiffman, M.A., Senior Advisor, brings over 30 years of successful organizational and business experience in human service fields including expertise in executive management, strategic planning, business development, finance, marketing, market intelligence research, fundraising, and board development. For OPEN MINDS clients, Mr. Shiffman brings hands-on expertise that comes from successful management and consulting with a number of programs. He has a unique ability to “think outside of the box” when it comes to program and revenue growth, cultivating strategic partnerships and in fostering personal relationships.

Prior to joining OPEN MINDS Mr. Shiffman successfully led a number of organizations and programs. He most recently served as the chief executive officer of Griffith Centers for Children, a COA‐accredited, full-service treatment program for severely troubled youth and their families.  He also developed one of the first offense‐specific sex offender programs in the United States.

During his 34-years with Griffith Centers he has served in many leadership roles in the child welfare community including president of the Colorado Association of Family and Children’s Agencies, board member of the Child Welfare League of America, and chair for the CWLA National Advisory Committee on Public Policy.  Mr. Shiffman was also appointed by the Colorado Governor to serve on a task force to study human services and make recommendations for changes.  Mr. Shiffman served as the chairman of the Colorado Continuum Network serving Sexually Abusive Youth and was appointed to the Colorado Sex Offender board representing the interests of adults and juveniles.

Before coming to Griffith Centers, Mr. Shiffman was an administrator at Fort Logan Mental Health Center in Denver, leading an inpatient psychiatric team. He has also worked on the Navajo Indian reservation in New Mexico, was a juvenile probation officer and worked with disabled clients. Mr. Shiffman holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business, with a specialty in Marketing from Rider University. He was recently awarded a Life Time Achievement Award from the Colorado Association of Family and Children’s Agencies and is a contributor to Children’s Voice, the CWLA national magazine.

Using Data To Improve Accountability & Outcomes In The Era Of Care Coordination & Value-Based Contracting

Knowledge Partner

Sponsored By eCenter Research

Value-based contracting, care coordination and integration models, person-centered care, increased competition for consumers – in the changing world of health and human services, data is the key to success. But this means more than merely collecting data through electronic health records (EHR), it means creating a system where provider organizations can use data to improve the quality and functioning of service delivery for their consumers. In this exciting session, we’ll discuss how new models of care are transforming the way payers and provider organizations relate to data – and how provider organizations can use data to promote care coordination and drive positive outcomes.

Karen W. Linkins, Ph.D.

Karen W. Linkins, Ph.D. is Co-Founder and Principal of Desert Vista Consulting, based in Scottsdale, Arizona.  She specializes in systems transformation in the health, behavioral health, and human services fields through strategic planning, organizational development, data infrastructure development, measurement, evaluation, and quality improvement.  Dr. Linkins is currently directing the Integrated Behavioral Health Project, funded by the State of California, which aims to spread integrated health care across the state and nationally through capacity building, training, and technical assistance.  Her approach is to advance integrated care by promoting cross-sector accountability among policy makers, funders, and providers to improve health outcomes through delivery system redesign, payment reform, care coordination, and data sharing. Dr. Linkins works to develop strong strategic partnerships across the safety net, which enables community partners to overcome barriers to care and achieve better clinical and economic outcomes.  Dr. Linkins earned her PhD in Medical Sociology at the University of California, San Francisco and an undergraduate degree from Smith College.

Steve Weatherbee, Ed.D.

Dr. Steve Weatherbee is a researcher and President/CEO of eCenter Research. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with an interdisciplinary doctoral degree in Policy and Administration, Public Health, and Social Work.
Dr. Weatherbee manages worldwide distribution of the DUSI-R (multivariate mental health and substance use assessment developed by Dr. Ralph Tarter), works with organizations to conduct specialized research to further develop the practical utility of the DUSI-R (Drug Use Screening Inventory Revised) including culturally sensitive adaptation, prediction of risk for relapse (drug, alcohol), prediction of risk for recidivism (DUI’s, juvenile delinquency), and validation of specialized decision tree models. The DUSI-R enables organizations to efficiently and accurately conduct client intake screening/assessment, monitor client response to treatment, adapt treatment protocols, determine intervention/treatment effectiveness, guide program improvement decisions, and demonstrate accountability through real-time access to client and program outcomes.
Dr. Weatherbee developed eINSIGHT™ for data collection, single portal integration of disparate data sources, and reporting automation. eINSIGHT™ is a HIPAA compliant web-based platform that can be customized to meet the unique needs and challenges of data collection, automated analysis, and client outcomes reporting necessary for compliance with state and federal reporting and performance requirements, and for utilization of data locally for accountability and improvement of service delivery systems. eINSIGHT™ can be securely connected to existing EMR/EHR systems and helps consolidate disparate data sources for advanced customized reporting.


3:30 pm – 4:45 pm CT

Changing Best Practices In Positioning & Branding: Keys To Competing For Consumers & Referrals

Breakout Session

Does brand matter? The simple answer is yes, but in the increasingly competitive world of health and human services, brand will matter more and more. The reason is simple – we are moving from a “commodity-based” service market to one that is more competitive. In this case, competitive means appealing to payers and consumers alike in terms of preference. The “new” value equation is a combination of service convenience and brand – which is why thinking about “brand” may be more important in the years to come. In this session, we’ll discuss how you can position your organization for awareness and growth in this changing market, and hear from organizations that have a successful “brand” in their marketspace.

Timothy Snyder, Jr.

Timothy G. Snyder, Jr. brings a unique combination of marketing, business development, and online media expertise to OPEN MINDS. Since joining our team in 2008, Mr. Snyder has led over twenty strategic marketing and sales-focused projects, including comprehensive product launch initiatives, corporate re-branding/positioning projects, and website/online marketing programs for some of the largest and most influential pharmaceutical and technology organizations in the industry. In addition to his work in the consulting practice, Mr. Snyder currently oversees the marketing, public relations, and sales divisions of OPEN MINDS.

Prior to his current position, Mr. Snyder served as OPEN MINDS Vice President Of Marketing. During this time he was led the successful launch of multiple new product offerings, the re-design of the OPEN MINDS website, and the launch of PsychU.org – a free online community and resource center for professionals in the mental health community.

Mr. Snyder is a 2008 graduate of the AACSB Internationally accredited John L. Grove College of Business at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in both Marketing Communications and Business Management.

Chriss Flynn

Combining 25+ years of marketing and promotion expertise with a lifelong social services avocation means Chriss enjoys the best of both worlds at Mind Springs Health. Coloradan by spirit though New Yorker by birth, Chriss spent many years on both coasts and in between as a marketing, creative and brand strategist/architect for major organizations and broadcast networks like ESPN, HBO and Starz/Encore. She has been a licensed Colorado State Long-Term Care Ombudsman and has an affinity for working in an industry that brings positive change to people’s lives. When not creating marketing plans & programs for Mind Springs Health and West Springs Hospital, you can find Chriss near water, inline skating or behind the wheel.

Serving The Criminal Justice Population: Reentry & Community Mental Health Programs

Breakout Session

The likelihood that consumers with complex support needs are involved in some form or fashion in the justice system is high. In fact, 2.2% of the U.S. adult population, or seven million, is in prison or jail, on probation, or on parole, and 16% of that population has a mental illness, or an addictive disorder (35%), or both (45%). This population poses a “high cost” to society with health, behavioral health, social system, court system, and corrections system spending. In this session, we will discuss the challenges of serving the needs of this criminal justice population, and hear from organizations serving the justice-involved population in the community – both through reentry and diversion programs.

Paul Neitman, LMSW

Paul Neitman, LMSW, Senior Associate, has over 35 years of experience in the health and human service field, most recently as chief operating officer of Holy Cross Children’s Services in Michigan. Throughout his career at Holy Cross, where he started as a treatment specialist, Mr. Neitman served in both clinical and business leadership positions.  This included executive responsibilities for two acquisitions — an inpatient substance abuse treatment organization and a counseling organization.  During these acquisition activities, he served on the due diligence committee and lead the initiative to integrate the organizations into Holy Cross.

Mr. Neitman also led a multi-year initiative to create the Samaritan Center — a one-stop human service center in Detroit.  The Samaritan Center, which opened in 2001 on the site of a closed hospital, now provides a variety of services to the neighborhood — urgent care, healthcare, dental services, behavioral health, skilled nursing services, job training, an alternative high school, and more — through collaborations with 80 other local health and human service organizations. He continues to serve on the organization’s board of directors and has been part of a team building the center to an operation with $100 million operating budget with more than 1,000 people employed within the center.

In his work with Holy Cross, Mr. Neitman was instrumental in setting up the organization’s first foundation in 2009 and enhancing its ability to raise funds to serve the community.  His experience with board development and grant writing contributed to the success of the Holy Cross Foundation.  Most recently, he wrote a proposal for Michigan’s first social impact bond initiative.

Throughout his career, Mr. Neitman has been involved with the design, funding, development, and operation of charter schools in both Michigan and Ohio that focused on the needs of at-risk youth.  He has also led the development of a college preparatory academy for foster care youth.

Mr. Neitman currently serves as a board member on the Samaritan Center, Inc., Holy Cross Youth & Family, and the Michigan Federation. He also served on the editorial board for Residential Treatment for Children and Youth. He has a Bachelor’s degree from Miami University of Ohio and a Masters’ of Social Work Administration from the University of Michigan.

Betsy Hardwick, LMSW

Betsy Hardwick, LMSW is a licensed Master’s level social worker in the state of Michigan. She received her Master’s from the University of Michigan in 1995. She started her career working with offenders, moved into a variety of other social work positions and then came full circle back into her current position as the Program Administrator for the ReEntry Project for Offenders with Special Needs. She has a particular passion in facilitating true collaboration across multiple systems and breaking down barriers that inhibit successful reentry for mentally ill offenders.

Serving The Criminal Justice Population: Reentry & Community Mental Health Programs

Breakout Session

The likelihood that consumers with complex support needs are involved in some form or fashion in the justice system is high. In fact, 2.2% of the U.S. adult population, or seven million, is in prison or jail, on probation, or on parole, and 16% of that population has a mental illness, or an addictive disorder (35%), or both (45%). This population poses a “high cost” to society with health, behavioral health, social system, court system, and corrections system spending. In this session, we will discuss the challenges of serving the needs of this criminal justice population, and hear from organizations serving the justice-involved population in the community – both through reentry and diversion programs.

Paul Neitman, LMSW

Paul Neitman, LMSW, Senior Associate, has over 35 years of experience in the health and human service field, most recently as chief operating officer of Holy Cross Children’s Services in Michigan. Throughout his career at Holy Cross, where he started as a treatment specialist, Mr. Neitman served in both clinical and business leadership positions.  This included executive responsibilities for two acquisitions — an inpatient substance abuse treatment organization and a counseling organization.  During these acquisition activities, he served on the due diligence committee and lead the initiative to integrate the organizations into Holy Cross.

Mr. Neitman also led a multi-year initiative to create the Samaritan Center — a one-stop human service center in Detroit.  The Samaritan Center, which opened in 2001 on the site of a closed hospital, now provides a variety of services to the neighborhood — urgent care, healthcare, dental services, behavioral health, skilled nursing services, job training, an alternative high school, and more — through collaborations with 80 other local health and human service organizations. He continues to serve on the organization’s board of directors and has been part of a team building the center to an operation with $100 million operating budget with more than 1,000 people employed within the center.

In his work with Holy Cross, Mr. Neitman was instrumental in setting up the organization’s first foundation in 2009 and enhancing its ability to raise funds to serve the community.  His experience with board development and grant writing contributed to the success of the Holy Cross Foundation.  Most recently, he wrote a proposal for Michigan’s first social impact bond initiative.

Throughout his career, Mr. Neitman has been involved with the design, funding, development, and operation of charter schools in both Michigan and Ohio that focused on the needs of at-risk youth.  He has also led the development of a college preparatory academy for foster care youth.

Mr. Neitman currently serves as a board member on the Samaritan Center, Inc., Holy Cross Youth & Family, and the Michigan Federation. He also served on the editorial board for Residential Treatment for Children and Youth. He has a Bachelor’s degree from Miami University of Ohio and a Masters’ of Social Work Administration from the University of Michigan.

Betsy Hardwick, LMSW

Betsy Hardwick, LMSW is a licensed Master’s level social worker in the state of Michigan. She received her Master’s from the University of Michigan in 1995. She started her career working with offenders, moved into a variety of other social work positions and then came full circle back into her current position as the Program Administrator for the ReEntry Project for Offenders with Special Needs. She has a particular passion in facilitating true collaboration across multiple systems and breaking down barriers that inhibit successful reentry for mentally ill offenders.


4:45 pm – 6:15 pm CT

Networking Reception In The Institute Exhibit Hall

Networking

Sponsored By Askesis Development Group

Wrap up Day One of the institute with an exclusive networking reception in the Institute Exhibit Hall, sponsored by Askesis Development Group. During this time, you will be able to continue your discussions from the day’s sessions with our faculty and network with your fellow attendees.


7:30 am – 8:30 am CT

Executive Networking Breakfast In The Institute Exhibit Hall

Networking

Sponsored By U Squared Interactive

Jumpstart your morning with breakfast in the Exhibit Hall, sponsored by U Squared Interactive. Take this time to review our agenda for the day and meet new people – you never know what doors may open when you take the time to network with your peers.


8:30 am – 9:30 am CT

Digital Medicine In U.S. Health Care: Payers Who Are Making It Work

Plenary Address

Sponsored By U Squared Interactive

In today’s health care market, the use of treatment technologies like online therapy, mood management applications, and remote monitoring systems are quickly becoming key to meeting consumer expectations, increasing access to care, lowering costs, and improving outcomes. In this essential discussion, representatives from the UPMC Health Plan and Cigna will discuss how their organizations are using consumer technologies and how these technologies have changed their relationships with consumers and provider organizations.

Elizabeth A. Holden, M.Ed., CRC, LPC

Betsy Holden has over 20 years of clinical experience in the design and delivery of Evidence Based Clinical services and programs. At UPMC Health Plan, she is responsible for the development and integration of clinical programming strategically designed to address health and wellness needs of various populations. The focus of her work has included the deployment of Beating the BluesUS and Shared Decision Making to assist members in reaching the goal inherent in all we strive: Understanding their health, Improving their health and Partnering with their physician.
Prior to UPMC Health Plan, Ms. Holden worked for 14 years in child and adolescent research at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC.
Ms. Holden earned a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Pittsburgh and a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from Allegheny College. She is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and licensed in the Commonwealth of PA as a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Terri Cox Glassen, RN, MN

Terri Cox Glassen, RN, MN is a Clinical Program Director at CIGNA HealthCare where she has worked for the past 16 years. In this role, she is accountable for clinical design of new health advocacy programs, products and pilots to test and learn new approaches to support healthy behavior change. Much of her clinical design work is focused in the digital space both designing and evaluating on-line clinical programs. Terri is also a leader in Cigna’s Women Colleague Resource Group where she passionately works to establish innovative strategies to build women leaders and understand the needs of Cigna’s female customers. She serves as an advisor for several external research studies and serves on Cigna’s Health Equity Council. She received her BSN from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, a MN from UCLA and has a Six Sigma Black Belt. She currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband and their four children.

Mike Manocchia, Ph.D.

Mike Manocchia, PhD is presently Director and Senior Scientist leading Health Program Evaluation Analytics at Cigna. He is also an adjunct professor at the University of North Florida, where he teaches health sociology. At Cigna, he directs a team conducting claims-related opportunity analyses, root cause survey and qualitative research and conducting health-related outcomes research related to disease and case management, wellness, pharmacy management, behavioral health, dental and disability services. Mike has been conducting health services research for more than 20 years and has numerous publications and presentations in various forums. In the past, he worked for BCBSFL and BCBS Rhode Island, Health Dialog and Ingenix (now Optum). Mike holds a PhD in medical sociology and research methods from Northeastern University in Boston and Master’s degree in sociology from UCONN in Storrs, CT.


9:45 am – 11:00 am CT

How To Create A Winning Proposal: The Five Essential Elements In A Successful Procurement Strategy

Breakout Session

Every week hundreds of competitive request for proposals (RFPs) are issued in the health and human service field; but that money is lost unless your organization knows how to compete. Learn proven strategies and tactics from the OPEN MINDS team for improving your success rate. In this session, we will discuss how to evaluate RFPs, best practices in preparing a winning technical and price proposal, and, importantly, how to “sell” your organization beyond the proposal itself.

Joseph P. Naughton-Travers, EdM

Joseph P. Naughton-Travers, EdM, Senior Associate, has more than 30 years of experience in the health and human service field. In this tenure as senior associate with OPEN MINDS since 1998, he has served as lead of dozens of client initiatives, served as editor of OPEN MINDS publications, and is the author of many groundbreaking articles and presentations.

Mr. Naughton-Travers brings to OPEN MINDS a broad range of experiences in private and public sector delivery of behavioral health and social services. He started his career as a behavioral health clinician, working in both child welfare and community mental health clinic settings. Subsequently, Mr. Naughton-Travers held a senior business operations management position for a psychiatric hospital system and its community mental health clinics.  Later, he was vice president of a firm specializing in information systems and billing and receivables management for community-based mental health programs.

Since joining OPEN MINDS, Mr. Naughton-Travers has developed business solutions for provider and professional organizations, state and county government, technology companies, and venture capital firms. His primary areas of expertise include strategic planning and metrics-based management, electronic health record (EHR) and technology selection and implementation, operations improvement, and corporate compliance. For the past decade, over half his consulting practice has focused on aiding organizations in technology selection and implementation, including all aspects of strategic technology planning, functional specifications development, request for proposal development, vendor selection, and contracting.

He has written numerous articles, including “Winning the Human Resource Wars: Tried, True and New Strategies for Behavioral Health and Social Service Organizations,” “Five Pillars of Management Competency,” “Data Driven Decision Making: Moving to an Organizational Measurement Culture,” “Survival of the Smartest: What is Your Organization’s Information Literacy IQ?,” and “Strategic Human Resource Management: Aligning Compensation with Employee Performance and Organizational Strategy.” Mr. Naughton-Travers is also a nationally recognized speaker, having conducted hundreds of executive and professional executive training events around the nation.

Mr. Naughton-Travers received his Bachelor’s degree from Miami University of Ohio and his Masters’ of Education in Counseling Psychology from Boston University.

Making Readmission Prevention & Crisis Stabilization Programs Work In Managed Care Systems: Best Practices From Executives In The Field

Breakout Session

The first step in developing a sustainable market strategy is determining what services will be in greater demand in the future. Downward cost pressure and health care reform—in the form of more coordinated and managed environments—are decreasing demand for specialist services and for hospital-based care. What’s on the upswing in demand? Community-based support services for high-needs consumers – including, readmission prevention and crisis stabilization programs. During this session we will explore how the emerging health care market is penalizing hospitalizations and readmissions, discuss the changing role of crisis stabilization and readmission prevention programs, and take a look at programs currently succeeding around the country.

Steve Ramsland, Ed.D.

Steven Ramsland, Ed.D. has more than 25 years of experience in the development and delivery of health and human service programs. He has held senior leadership positions in the development of several innovative service systems including Medicare Shared Savings Program ACOs, a primary care provider network, several national managed behavioral health initiatives, and innovative community programming.

Dr. Ramsland recently served as chief executive officer at Redwood Community Health, a network of 17 community health centers, with over 40 sites in northern California. The organization provides primary care, behavioral health and oral health to over 240,000 patients each year. While at Redwood he managed the implementation of an ACO, a capitated Medicaid managed care contract, and a pay-for-performance quality improvement program.

Prior to this, he was the executive director of Buckelew Programs, a leading provider of community-based, recovery-oriented behavioral health programs in Northern California. The organization provides supported housing and employment, and recovery supports, as well as two social enterprise businesses.

Dr. Ramsland was previously vice president and practice leader for United Behavioral Health’s Public Sector Practice (now Optum).   In that role, he analyzed opportunities and implemented strategies to expand public sector business – and collaborated with executive leadership at United to design and build organizational capabilities in public sector behavioral health, disease management, and consumer-directed care to support revenue growth.

In addition to his work with Optum, Dr. Ramsland also served as the chief development officer and Public Sector President for Comprehensive Behavioral Care, and as vice president, Government Programs, for ValueOptions. He has worked with government policy leaders throughout the nation to develop new, recovery-oriented approaches to delivering behavioral health and integrated medical services. He was also the Chief Executive Officer of a community mental health center, SERV Behavioral Health in New Jersey.

Dr. Ramsland earned a Doctoral Degree in Psychology from Rutgers University, a Master’s Degree in Psychology from Duquesne University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and English from Trinity College.

Marta Durkin, LMSW

Marta Durkin, is a Licensed Master Social Worker with over 16 years’ experience in both community-based and hospital settings delivering a variety of specialty services to homeless individuals with complex behavioral health and medical issues. She received her Bachelor’s of Science in Social Work from Syracuse University and her Master’s of Science in Social Work from Columbia University. Marta spent almost a decade overseeing various outpatient substance abuse and mental health clinics, prevention and vocational programs throughout New York City in both hospital and community-based settings. She also has extensive experience as both a developer and trainer with a New York State approved Certified Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) certification. She has developed and operated various supportive housing programs ranging from intensive residential to permanent supportive housing and has received several community recognition awards in the field of behavioral health. Marta has been with Liberty Resources, Inc., located in Central New York, since 2008. In her role as Vice President of Behavioral Healthcare, she is responsible for overseeing the divisional operations and management spanning across 22 counties throughout New York State, program development, and system integration. This includes managing an array of community-based, care management, residential and home care services that serve individuals with persistent mental illness, substance abuse, brain injuries, HIV/AIDS, homeless veterans, and housing vulnerability. During the span of her career she has successfully written grants that amounted to over $20 million dollars in federal, state and local funding. Most recently she led and developed two innovative pilot programs funded through the New York State Medicaid Redesign Team that seek to improve health outcomes while diverting unnecessary emergency room usage and hospitalizations.

Edgar K. Wiggins, MHS

Edgar Wiggins is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mr. Wiggins completed his Bachelor of Science Degree in Mental Health Technology from Hahnemann College of Allied Health Sciences and received his Masters of Human Services Degree from Lincoln University.

Mr. Wiggins is the Executive Director of Baltimore Crisis Response, Inc. In this capacity, he functions as the Chief Executive Officer and oversees the operations of BCRI, a community-based mental health crisis intervention organization. Mr. Wiggins has been involved in several mental health organizations for over the last thirty years. He has served as the Executive Director of the Black Mental Health Alliance, Director of Psychiatric Clinics at the Charles Drew Community Mental Health Center, and Day Hospital Director at COMHAR, Inc.

Prior to accepting management positions, Mr. Wiggins held numerous clinical positions as a psychotherapist providing individual, group and family therapy. Mr. Wiggins has also served as a consultant and trainer to a variety of public and private organizations including Yale Department of Psychiatry Mobile Crisis Team, Johns Hopkins Hospital Department of Psychiatry and the DC Bureau of Mental Health. He was selected to travel to Cuba as part of a delegation of health professionals and city governmental officials. Mr. Wiggins has provided training to police, paramedics, and 911 operators regarding the management of mental health emergencies. He is a past Executive Board member of the American Association of Emergency Psychiatry. Currently he serves on the Boards of the Maryland Foundation for Psychiatry and the National Family Resiliency Center. Mr. Wiggins specializes in cultural sensitivity and efficacy, minority mental health, and crisis intervention.

Mr. Wiggins is a sought after speaker who presents regularly at The Annual Maryland Youth Suicide Prevention Conference and other local and regional symposia. Mr. Wiggins has lectured at George Washington University, Temple University, and Hahnemann University. He also was the Grand Rounds speaker for Wake Forest University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry in Winston Salem, North Carolina. He has appeared on numerous television and radio broadcasts, including “In Your Interest,” “Two Way Talk,” “Fresh Focus,” profile on Baltimore,” and “The Mark Steiner Show.” Mr. Wiggins has also developed and hosts “MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS” a program that is broadcast in the Baltimore Metropolitan Area. This program is dedicated to providing practical and useful information regarding mental health issues and needs.

Mr. Wiggins is the recipient of many awards, including awards from the Mental Health Association, the Anti Stigma Project, the National Association of Health Services Executives, and the Governor’s Citation for Suicide Prevention. The program, Mental Health Matters, won the Cameo Award for excellence in public access television programming in 1999, 2000, 2001, and 2002. In 2005 he received the Mental Health Professional of the Year Award from National Alliance of The Mentally Ill. In 2006 Mr. Wiggins received the Outstanding Merit Award from the Maryland Foundation for Psychiatry, in 2007 he received the Heroes Award from NAMI and in 2008 he received the Distinguished Service Award from the Mental Health Association. Mr. Wiggins received the Excellence in Community Mental Health Services Award from NAMI 2010. In 2011 Mr. Wiggins received the Governor’s Citation for Inspiring Leadership and Service, he received the Mayor’s Certificate of Recognition and he also received the NAMI Maryland Certificate for Service and Leadership. In 2012 Mr. Wiggins received a Certificate of Special Recognition from the Baltimore City Police Department for police training. In 2013 Mr. Wiggins received the Visionary Award from the Anti-Stigma Project of On Our Own of Maryland, Inc. and the Honorable Judge Robert M. Bell Excellence in Community Service Award from the Sojourner-Douglass College.

Becoming The Urgent Care For Behavioral Health: Leveraging Technology To Empower A New Service Delivery Model

Knowledge Partner

Sponsored By The Echo Group

Since 1958 Monarch has been committed to supporting, educating, and empowering people with developmental and intellectual disabilities, mental illness, and substance use disorders to choose and achieve what is important to them. Monarch is creating a first-of-its-kind service model in North Carolina that emphasizes easier access, dramatically shorter wait times, and improved care. Innovation and creativity are at the core of how Monarch delivers its services. Flexibility in the electronic health record they use is key to Monarch’s ability to offer their clinical services at the scale they want to deliver them. Getting the most from their EHR has been integral to Monarch’s strategy to become the “Urgent Care for Behavioral Health” in North Carolina.

This session will share how Monarch was able to:
•Define the business challenge and opportunity
•Have the vision to overcome the challenge
•Create a lean methodology to seize the opportunity
•Create the efficiencies required to scale and deliver it
•Identify the specific KPIs required to measure it

Jason Cagle

Jason Cagle is a technology strategist and innovator with more than 18 years of experience leveraging technology to enhance communication, decision making, and productivity for organizations in diverse industries. His experience includes providing information technology and telecommunications support for team members as well as technology development. Other strengths include business development, project management, strategic planning, operations and IT infrastructure development.

Chris Thompson

Chris Thompson earned a Bachelors’ degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting from Winthrop University.  Chris has worked in non-profit since 2006, having worked with Monarch since November 2010, where he started as a Budget Officer for Behavioral Health.  In October 2013, Chris transitioned to operations becoming Senior Business Operations Director until September of 2014, when the position was transitioned to Senior Clinical Operations Director. Chris oversees Behavioral Health operations for the Western part of North Carolina, which includes Cleveland, Forsyth, Gaston and Lincoln Counties.


11:15 am – 12:30 pm CT

Where Do Behavioral Health Organizations Fit In The ACO Landscape? A Review Of Emerging Accountable Care Models

Breakout Session

There is a lot happening in the accountable care organization (ACO) market these days. We’ve seen an increase in the number of Medicare ACOs and the development of new financing models as the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) looks to ease the transition into performance-based risk models. We’ve seen the emergence of Medicaid ACOs and ACO-like structures as states look for new models to better coordinate care and decrease costs. And we’ve seen new initiatives to develop commercial ACOs in the private sector. Amid all of of this growth and change in the ACO market, where does behavioral health care fit? While most ACOs are responsible for behavioral health services, how they deliver those services varies widely – from managing care entirely within the ACO, to contracting with a network of independent provider organizations. In this session, we will look at how the ACO market is changing service delivery and financing for behavioral health organizations and explore the different ways that ACOs are managing and delivering behavioral health care services for their members.

Joseph P. Naughton-Travers, EdM

Joseph P. Naughton-Travers, EdM, Senior Associate, has more than 30 years of experience in the health and human service field. In this tenure as senior associate with OPEN MINDS since 1998, he has served as lead of dozens of client initiatives, served as editor of OPEN MINDS publications, and is the author of many groundbreaking articles and presentations.

Mr. Naughton-Travers brings to OPEN MINDS a broad range of experiences in private and public sector delivery of behavioral health and social services. He started his career as a behavioral health clinician, working in both child welfare and community mental health clinic settings. Subsequently, Mr. Naughton-Travers held a senior business operations management position for a psychiatric hospital system and its community mental health clinics.  Later, he was vice president of a firm specializing in information systems and billing and receivables management for community-based mental health programs.

Since joining OPEN MINDS, Mr. Naughton-Travers has developed business solutions for provider and professional organizations, state and county government, technology companies, and venture capital firms. His primary areas of expertise include strategic planning and metrics-based management, electronic health record (EHR) and technology selection and implementation, operations improvement, and corporate compliance. For the past decade, over half his consulting practice has focused on aiding organizations in technology selection and implementation, including all aspects of strategic technology planning, functional specifications development, request for proposal development, vendor selection, and contracting.

He has written numerous articles, including “Winning the Human Resource Wars: Tried, True and New Strategies for Behavioral Health and Social Service Organizations,” “Five Pillars of Management Competency,” “Data Driven Decision Making: Moving to an Organizational Measurement Culture,” “Survival of the Smartest: What is Your Organization’s Information Literacy IQ?,” and “Strategic Human Resource Management: Aligning Compensation with Employee Performance and Organizational Strategy.” Mr. Naughton-Travers is also a nationally recognized speaker, having conducted hundreds of executive and professional executive training events around the nation.

Mr. Naughton-Travers received his Bachelor’s degree from Miami University of Ohio and his Masters’ of Education in Counseling Psychology from Boston University.

Suzanne Kieltyka, RD, CDE

Suzanne Kieltyka has worked in healthcare for 19 years with experience across the care continuum: post-acute care facilities, hospital systems, physician groups and the pharmaceutical industry. She is currently the Health Education Manager for the Value Based Care Division of Summit Strategic Solutions, based in Knoxville, Tennessee. Summit Strategic Solutions specializes in providing population health strategies that drive “better care, lower cost.”® Summit Strategic Solutions includes a Management Services Organization (MS0) that provides practice management and operations support and is a business partner of Summit Medical Group, one of the largest physician-owned, primary care groups in the country and a Level 3 certified Patient Centered Medical Home. The medical group consists of 359 providers, 54 practice locations and 274,000 primary care patients. In her role, Ms. Kieltyka oversees all aspects of the Health Education Department and is responsible for management of various patient programs including embedded behavioral health, shared medical appointments and retinal screening services. Ms. Kieltyka has a Bachelor of Science degree from Middle Tennessee State University and is a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator.

Aaron McHone, MBA

Mr. Aaron McHone is the Executive Director of Unity Point Health – Berryhill Center. Berryhill is a Community Mental Health Center which joined the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Pioneer Accountable Care Organization (ACO) Project in 2012. They joined under a corporation named Trinity Pioneer ACO. Which contained the local hospital, physician’s group, home health agency, and Berryhill. The Trinity Pioneer ACO is one of 19 remaining CMS Pioneer Projects in the country and successfully obtained $1.22 million in Medicare shared savings in 2014. In this ACO Project Berryhill successfully implemented a shared electronic health record with area hospitals and clinics, developed an integrated care plan across hospital, clinic, public health, and post-acute settings, and, improved access to mental health services. Mr. McHone is a current member of Unity Point Health’s Management Leadership Academy and serves on several local boards and committees. Berryhill’s parent company, Unity Point Health has joined several commercial insurance ACO contracts and is moving towards a capitated payment model with several commercial and public payors. Unity Point Health provides healthcare in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin and has over 28,000 employees and over 900 employed physicians.

Aaron McHone received a bachelor degree from Northwestern College in St. Paul, MN and a master degree in business administration from Iowa State University. He has worked in Community Mental Health Centers for 11 years and also has experience working with organizations that serve individuals with intellectual disability as well as chemical dependence. He is married to Holly and they have three children ages 8, 5, and 1.

Care Management & Children’s Services: What Are The Emerging Market Models?

Breakout Session

In Partnership With The Leadership Council For Children’s Services

This is a “brave new world” in children’s services — both mental health and child welfare. Changes in federal Title IV-E funding and state Medicaid systems of care have created a renewed focus on care coordination, integrated service delivery, prevention and early intervention, home- and community-based treatment, and performance. In light of these shifts, there are a few strategic elements that executives of organizations serving children should consider – how to partner with other provider organizations and build strong relationships with state and county organizations; how to provide in-home, prevention services for potentially at-risk children and their families; and how to contract with managed care organizations and operate in an outcomes-based system. In this session, we’ll learn about the new systems being developed to serve children across the country, and how provider organizations can adapt and prepare for changes in their own markets.

Howard Shiffman

Howard Shiffman, M.A., Senior Advisor, brings over 30 years of successful organizational and business experience in human service fields including expertise in executive management, strategic planning, business development, finance, marketing, market intelligence research, fundraising, and board development. For OPEN MINDS clients, Mr. Shiffman brings hands-on expertise that comes from successful management and consulting with a number of programs. He has a unique ability to “think outside of the box” when it comes to program and revenue growth, cultivating strategic partnerships and in fostering personal relationships.

Prior to joining OPEN MINDS Mr. Shiffman successfully led a number of organizations and programs. He most recently served as the chief executive officer of Griffith Centers for Children, a COA‐accredited, full-service treatment program for severely troubled youth and their families.  He also developed one of the first offense‐specific sex offender programs in the United States.

During his 34-years with Griffith Centers he has served in many leadership roles in the child welfare community including president of the Colorado Association of Family and Children’s Agencies, board member of the Child Welfare League of America, and chair for the CWLA National Advisory Committee on Public Policy.  Mr. Shiffman was also appointed by the Colorado Governor to serve on a task force to study human services and make recommendations for changes.  Mr. Shiffman served as the chairman of the Colorado Continuum Network serving Sexually Abusive Youth and was appointed to the Colorado Sex Offender board representing the interests of adults and juveniles.

Before coming to Griffith Centers, Mr. Shiffman was an administrator at Fort Logan Mental Health Center in Denver, leading an inpatient psychiatric team. He has also worked on the Navajo Indian reservation in New Mexico, was a juvenile probation officer and worked with disabled clients. Mr. Shiffman holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business, with a specialty in Marketing from Rider University. He was recently awarded a Life Time Achievement Award from the Colorado Association of Family and Children’s Agencies and is a contributor to Children’s Voice, the CWLA national magazine.

Tackling The Superutilizer Challenge With Technology

Knowledge Partner

Sponsored by Centerstone Research Institute

Five percent of beneficiaries represent more than half of the overall Medicaid spend, and many of these superutilizers have co-occuring mental and physical health disorders.  Centerstone Research Institute (CRI) has developed the coactionHealth Clinical Model to improve patient health, increase patient engagement, and reduce costs and hospitalizations for this key population.  The coactionHealth model employs smartphone technology to gather and analyze active and passive data around the clock, greatly enhancing visibility and responsiveness for care providers.
In this session, we’ll discuss outcomes and lessons learned from the successful coactionHealth Clinical Model pilot.  We’ll also discuss the National Data Warehouse: a multi-state database of CMHC practice and outcomes detail, designed to advance our shared understanding of the practice of mental health.


12:30 pm – 2:00 pm CT

Lunch Break

Networking

Lunch On Your Own


2:00 pm – 3:15 pm CT

Running A Best Practice Digital Marketing Program: Using Online Marketing & Social Media To Your Advantage

Breakout Session

Having a contract with a managed care company is no longer enough. With health care reform creating more choices for consumers, the effectiveness of a provider organization’s website and “online presence” (ranking, reputation, social media buzz, etc.) is more important than ever. Regardless of whether you are trying to draw in new consumers or build long-lasting relationships with existing consumers, your “online brand” (how you’re being perceived online) will be a determining factor in your success. Join us for this interactive session led by OPEN MINDS Vice President Of Marketing, Tim Snyder, where we explore best practices in online consumer marketing and social media and hear from health and human service provider organizations doing it right.

Timothy Snyder, Jr.

Timothy G. Snyder, Jr. brings a unique combination of marketing, business development, and online media expertise to OPEN MINDS. Since joining our team in 2008, Mr. Snyder has led over twenty strategic marketing and sales-focused projects, including comprehensive product launch initiatives, corporate re-branding/positioning projects, and website/online marketing programs for some of the largest and most influential pharmaceutical and technology organizations in the industry. In addition to his work in the consulting practice, Mr. Snyder currently oversees the marketing, public relations, and sales divisions of OPEN MINDS.

Prior to his current position, Mr. Snyder served as OPEN MINDS Vice President Of Marketing. During this time he was led the successful launch of multiple new product offerings, the re-design of the OPEN MINDS website, and the launch of PsychU.org – a free online community and resource center for professionals in the mental health community.

Mr. Snyder is a 2008 graduate of the AACSB Internationally accredited John L. Grove College of Business at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in both Marketing Communications and Business Management.

Accreditation & Recognition Programs For Medical Homes & Health Homes: Where Are We Now & Where Are We Headed In The Future?

Breakout Session

In an era of health care reform, what is the current and future role of accreditation for evolving care models? And where is ‘accreditation’ for medical and health homes heading? Join us for a discussion of the role of accreditation standards in your organization’s strategy, and an overview of the new standards being developed by accrediting organizations. This session will include an update from the key medical home and health home accrediting bodies, and a discussion about how accreditation requirements affect organizational strategy when it comes to implementation of medical and health home models.

Lora Perry

Coming Soon!

Peggy Lavin, LCSW, ACSW, DCSW

Peggy Lavin is the Senior Associate Director of the Behavioral Health Care Accreditation Program at The Joint Commission. In this role, she assists the Executive Director to identify new markets, familiarizes organizations with the accreditation process, and participates in new product development and the strategic development and tactical operations of the Behavioral Health Care Accreditation Program. Previously, Ms. Lavin managed and developed the surveyor cadre for the Behavioral Health Care Accreditation Program.

Ms. Lavin has more than 25 years experience in behavioral health care, focusing on residential, day treatment, in-home, outpatient, and therapeutic foster care programs. Prior to coming to The Joint Commission, Ms. Lavin worked for a Nashville-based accredited behavioral health care organization that provided services to children and youth in six states. As director of corporate quality improvement, she was responsible for ensuring quality organizational and clinical performance of all sites. Ms. Lavin also worked at the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and the Illinois Department of Corrections, Juvenile Division. In addition, she has served on the Joint Commission’s Behavioral Health Care Professional and Technical Advisory Committee (PTAC).

Ms. Lavin is a licensed clinical social worker, a diplomat in clinical social work, and a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers. She received her master’s degree in social work from the Jane Addams School of Social Work, University of Illinois, Chicago, and her bachelor’s degree in sociology and psychology from the University of Illinois, Urbana.

Lisa Palmer, M.P.H.

Lisa Palmer has been with the Behavioral Health Customer Service Unit of CARF International in Tucson, Arizona, since 1999 where she currently serves as the Account Manager. She is also the Account Manager for Child and Youth Services. Prior to joining CARF, she was the Director of an HIV prevention program in Rochester, New York funded by the New York State Department of Health –AIDS Institute. She was instrumental in obtaining funding for, designing, and implementing a needle exchange program in Rochester which she supervised for seven years. She has a background in research and a Master of Public Health from the University of Rochester.

Laureen Pagel, Ph.D., MS, CAP

Dr. Laureen Pagel, is the CEO at Starting Point Behavioral Healthcare a community-based behavioral health treatment agency in Northeast Florida, where she has worked for over 17 years. Dr. Pagel earned her Doctorate in Health Care Administration in 2007, is a Certified Addiction Professional, a Certified Mental Health Professional and Certified Prevention Professional. Dr. Pagel is a Board member for the Florida Council for Community Mental Health (FCCMH), and is an Executive Board member of the Florida Alcohol and Drug Abuse Association (FADAA) and the Florida Certification Board (FCB). Dr. Pagel is active in her community and serves on numerous boards and councils in order to help increase awareness of behavioral health issues. Dr. Pagel has worked in the behavioral health field for over 25 years.

Amazon-ification of the EHR

Knowledge Partner

Sponsored By Valant Medical Solutions

Amazon has disrupted markets and transformed industries including books, music and movies, toys, groceries and more.  Their core leadership principles including Customer Obsession, Invent and Simplify, Insist on the Highest Standards, Think Big, and Deliver Results have enabled Amazon to become the household name and infinitely scalable power house it is today.  Come learn how HHS technology companies can tear a page out of the Amazon book to unleash potential in supporting changing business models, data needs, and opportunity.

 

David Lischner, M.D.

As the CEO and co-founder of Valant, Dr. David Lischner brings over 10 years of company building, product innovation, and executive management experience to his role at Valant. As co-founder, Medical Director and CEO of the Evidence Based Treatment Centers of Seattle, a specialty behavioral healthcare center with a national reputation for high quality care, he was able to pursue his passion for making evidence-based practices available to a community. It was while practicing in this group setting that he realized the need for an integrated, intuitive solution that would improve the value of behavioral healthcare and allow organizations to be more effective and profitable. It also gave him the means to pursue his dream, through enabling technology, to help make high quality behavioral healthcare available to everyone. David received his M.D. from the University of Washington, and completed his medical internship at the University of Pennsylvania before returning to the University of Washington for his specialty training in psychiatry.


3:15 pm – 4:00 pm CT

Refresh & Recharge Ice Cream Break In The Institute Exhibit Hall

Networking

Sponsored By Genoa, a QoL Healthcare Company

Take a break from the day’s sessions during this networking break, sponsored by Genoa, a QoL Healthcare Company. Spend this time in the exhibit hall networking with speakers, faculty, and colleagues while enjoying a “create your own” ice cream sundae bar with all the toppings! Fresh chocolate chip cookies and assorted drinks will also be available for attendees.

Refresh & Recharge Ice Cream Break In The Institute Exhibit Hall

Networking

Sponsored By Genoa, a QoL Healthcare Company

Take a break from the day’s sessions during this networking break, sponsored by Genoa, a QoL Healthcare Company. Spend this time in the exhibit hall networking with speakers, faculty, and colleagues while enjoying a “create your own” ice cream sundae bar with all the toppings! Fresh chocolate chip cookies and assorted drinks will also be available for attendees.


4:00 pm – 5:15 pm CT

Marketing Your Organization For Success: Essential Elements For Every Marketing Plan

Breakout Session

Understanding the market is one thing and knowing what to do to respond to the market is another. As competition for contracts, referrals, revenue, and donations heats up, organizations in the field need well-developed marketing plans. Join this session for a look at best practices in building your organization’s marketing plan, including how to align your marketing plan with your strategic plan, how to structure a “winning” marketing plan, and the importance of metrics and data to marketing planning.

Joseph P. Naughton-Travers, EdM

Joseph P. Naughton-Travers, EdM, Senior Associate, has more than 30 years of experience in the health and human service field. In this tenure as senior associate with OPEN MINDS since 1998, he has served as lead of dozens of client initiatives, served as editor of OPEN MINDS publications, and is the author of many groundbreaking articles and presentations.

Mr. Naughton-Travers brings to OPEN MINDS a broad range of experiences in private and public sector delivery of behavioral health and social services. He started his career as a behavioral health clinician, working in both child welfare and community mental health clinic settings. Subsequently, Mr. Naughton-Travers held a senior business operations management position for a psychiatric hospital system and its community mental health clinics.  Later, he was vice president of a firm specializing in information systems and billing and receivables management for community-based mental health programs.

Since joining OPEN MINDS, Mr. Naughton-Travers has developed business solutions for provider and professional organizations, state and county government, technology companies, and venture capital firms. His primary areas of expertise include strategic planning and metrics-based management, electronic health record (EHR) and technology selection and implementation, operations improvement, and corporate compliance. For the past decade, over half his consulting practice has focused on aiding organizations in technology selection and implementation, including all aspects of strategic technology planning, functional specifications development, request for proposal development, vendor selection, and contracting.

He has written numerous articles, including “Winning the Human Resource Wars: Tried, True and New Strategies for Behavioral Health and Social Service Organizations,” “Five Pillars of Management Competency,” “Data Driven Decision Making: Moving to an Organizational Measurement Culture,” “Survival of the Smartest: What is Your Organization’s Information Literacy IQ?,” and “Strategic Human Resource Management: Aligning Compensation with Employee Performance and Organizational Strategy.” Mr. Naughton-Travers is also a nationally recognized speaker, having conducted hundreds of executive and professional executive training events around the nation.

Mr. Naughton-Travers received his Bachelor’s degree from Miami University of Ohio and his Masters’ of Education in Counseling Psychology from Boston University.

Housing & Health Care: Emerging Models To Provide Housing & Treatment Services For Complex Consumers

Breakout Session

The issue of housing and its relationship to health care services is a simple issue in practice, and a complex issue in policy. About 30% of people who are chronically homeless have mental health conditions and about 50% have a co-occurring addictive disorder. With more pressure for health plans and provider organizations to reduce spending, increasing housing stability is a necessary first step before addressing an individual’s mental illness and substance-related disorders. But what is the best model for providing housing services? And how do you get reimbursement for housing programs? In this session, we’ll discuss the issues around housing and health care, and hear from organizations that have developed innovative models for providing both housing and treatment services for complex consumers.

Paul Neitman, LMSW

Paul Neitman, LMSW, Senior Associate, has over 35 years of experience in the health and human service field, most recently as chief operating officer of Holy Cross Children’s Services in Michigan. Throughout his career at Holy Cross, where he started as a treatment specialist, Mr. Neitman served in both clinical and business leadership positions.  This included executive responsibilities for two acquisitions — an inpatient substance abuse treatment organization and a counseling organization.  During these acquisition activities, he served on the due diligence committee and lead the initiative to integrate the organizations into Holy Cross.

Mr. Neitman also led a multi-year initiative to create the Samaritan Center — a one-stop human service center in Detroit.  The Samaritan Center, which opened in 2001 on the site of a closed hospital, now provides a variety of services to the neighborhood — urgent care, healthcare, dental services, behavioral health, skilled nursing services, job training, an alternative high school, and more — through collaborations with 80 other local health and human service organizations. He continues to serve on the organization’s board of directors and has been part of a team building the center to an operation with $100 million operating budget with more than 1,000 people employed within the center.

In his work with Holy Cross, Mr. Neitman was instrumental in setting up the organization’s first foundation in 2009 and enhancing its ability to raise funds to serve the community.  His experience with board development and grant writing contributed to the success of the Holy Cross Foundation.  Most recently, he wrote a proposal for Michigan’s first social impact bond initiative.

Throughout his career, Mr. Neitman has been involved with the design, funding, development, and operation of charter schools in both Michigan and Ohio that focused on the needs of at-risk youth.  He has also led the development of a college preparatory academy for foster care youth.

Mr. Neitman currently serves as a board member on the Samaritan Center, Inc., Holy Cross Youth & Family, and the Michigan Federation. He also served on the editorial board for Residential Treatment for Children and Youth. He has a Bachelor’s degree from Miami University of Ohio and a Masters’ of Social Work Administration from the University of Michigan.

Luke Crabtree

Luke Crabtree is the Chief Executive Officer at Project Transition, a person-centered, outcomes-driven organization whose mission is to enable persons with serious mental illness to live a meaningful life in the community on the terms she/he defines. Luke has been with Project Transition since 2005 and maintains an organizational focus on sustaining an environment that promotes a positive, forward-thinking culture and the organization’s commitment to Core Values and Mission.

Luke received his JD and MBA from Arizona State University where his focus was Business Law and Finance. His professional journey has included Physical and Behavioral Health Managed Care, Operations across multiple markets, and P&L Management.

Under Luke’s leadership, he has promoted a culture at Project Transition, which emphasizes an individualized approach for our Members and includes a focus on “One Member, One Community, One Day at a Time.”

Cal Hedigan

Coming Soon!

Jeff Kirschner, MHSA

Jeff Kirschner is the Executive Vice President of Mental Health Services at Greater Cincinnati Behavioral Health Services (GCB). GCB serves more than 13,000 clients per year in Ohio and Kentucky. During his 30 year career Jeff has primarily focused on the provision of services to adults with severe and persistent mental illness.
Jeff has worked in, managed, or directed an array of case management and housing programs at both GCB and the local mental health authority. He is currently responsible for more than 25 programs including 5 Assertive Community Treatment Teams and a number of Housing First Programs. He holds a Masters in Health Service Administration from Xavier University.


5:15 pm – 6:15 pm CT

Raffle Prize Drawing & Executive Networking Reception In The Institute Exhibit Hall

Networking

To close Day 2 of the institute, join us for this special executive networking reception in the Exhibit Hall. Take this time to debrief, share your experiences, and make plans to further develop your professional network. We will also hold our raffle prize drawing at the start of the reception – remember, you must be present to win any of our fabulous prizes!


8:00 am – 8:30 am CT

Executive Networking Breakfast

Networking

Sponsored by Community Care Behavioral Health Organization

Take a few minutes before the last day of the institute to engage with new friends and colleagues while grabbing a light breakfast and cup of coffee. Then stop by the registration table to register for upcoming events.


8:30 am – 9:30 am CT

What Makes Integrated Care Work? Perspectives From Organizations With A Successful Track Record

Plenary Address

In an era when everyone in health care is talking about integration, few organizations have been able to master the process. To kick off the last day of the institute, Cherokee Health Systems’ CEO, Dr. Dennis Freeman, and Jefferson Center for Mental Health’s Vice President of Corporate Business Development, Dr. Daniel Fishbein, will discuss their organizations’ paths to integration, the service delivery models they have created, how they work with payers under this model, and their advice for other providers considering how to expand their practice into primary care.

Daniel Fishbein, Ph.D.

Dr. Fishbein has been the Vice President for Corporate Business Development at Jefferson Center in Wheat Ridge, Colorado for nine years. He launched successful programs to expand services to commercial insurance, and a rapidly growing program that places therapists in private medical practices in the community. Previously, he spent 16 years in managed behavioral health. He helped American Biodyne grow from a small start up, then helped lead Merit Behavioral Care and Magellan Health in various roles in the corporate clinical departments. Receiving a doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia, he spent his early career in direct clinical practice, including working in integrated care at the Medical Psychology department at the Community Hospitals of Indianapolis back in the 1980’s, way before it became trendy and the latest thing.

Dennis Freeman, Ph.D.

Since 1978, Dennis S. Freeman, Ph.D. has served as Chief Executive Officer of Cherokee Health Systems, a community-based provider of integrated primary care and behavioral health services in East Tennessee. Cherokee Health Systems is both a Community Mental Health Center and a Federally Qualified Health Center. The company now has over 600 employees and two-dozen service locations including both rural and urban sites. In 2007 the National Center for Primary Care presented Cherokee the Best Practices in 21st Century Primary Care Award.

Dr. Freeman is a Licensed Psychologist in the State of Tennessee and is included in the National Register of Health Services Providers in Psychology. He earned a B.A. degree in Psychology at Wheaton College, (Illinois) and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He completed his internship at the Palo Alto/Menlo Park VA Hospital in California. In 2006 the Tennessee Psychological Association presented Dr. Freeman the Outstanding Contribution to Psychology Award. In 2010 the Department of Psychology at the University of Tennessee honored him with its inaugural Distinguished Alumni Award.

Dr. Freeman’s professional interests include health services development and management, preservation of the safety net, managed care, population based care and the blending of behavioral health and primary care services. Along with his colleagues at Cherokee, he has provided training and consultation to numerous organizations across the country on the integration of behavioral health care and primary care.


9:45 am – 11:00 am CT

New Service Line Development From A To Z: Tips, Tricks, & Advice

Breakout Session

In the current environment of changing consumer expectations, new financial models, and health care reform, one essential skill that all executives need to master is the ability to evaluate and modify current services – and to develop new services to meet the challenges and opportunities in the market. In this exciting session, we will review everything you need to know about developing a new service line. We will cover how to analyze current service lines and determine strategic options for diversification, as well as a target costing model for launching new services.

Joseph P. Naughton-Travers, EdM

Joseph P. Naughton-Travers, EdM, Senior Associate, has more than 30 years of experience in the health and human service field. In this tenure as senior associate with OPEN MINDS since 1998, he has served as lead of dozens of client initiatives, served as editor of OPEN MINDS publications, and is the author of many groundbreaking articles and presentations.

Mr. Naughton-Travers brings to OPEN MINDS a broad range of experiences in private and public sector delivery of behavioral health and social services. He started his career as a behavioral health clinician, working in both child welfare and community mental health clinic settings. Subsequently, Mr. Naughton-Travers held a senior business operations management position for a psychiatric hospital system and its community mental health clinics.  Later, he was vice president of a firm specializing in information systems and billing and receivables management for community-based mental health programs.

Since joining OPEN MINDS, Mr. Naughton-Travers has developed business solutions for provider and professional organizations, state and county government, technology companies, and venture capital firms. His primary areas of expertise include strategic planning and metrics-based management, electronic health record (EHR) and technology selection and implementation, operations improvement, and corporate compliance. For the past decade, over half his consulting practice has focused on aiding organizations in technology selection and implementation, including all aspects of strategic technology planning, functional specifications development, request for proposal development, vendor selection, and contracting.

He has written numerous articles, including “Winning the Human Resource Wars: Tried, True and New Strategies for Behavioral Health and Social Service Organizations,” “Five Pillars of Management Competency,” “Data Driven Decision Making: Moving to an Organizational Measurement Culture,” “Survival of the Smartest: What is Your Organization’s Information Literacy IQ?,” and “Strategic Human Resource Management: Aligning Compensation with Employee Performance and Organizational Strategy.” Mr. Naughton-Travers is also a nationally recognized speaker, having conducted hundreds of executive and professional executive training events around the nation.

Mr. Naughton-Travers received his Bachelor’s degree from Miami University of Ohio and his Masters’ of Education in Counseling Psychology from Boston University.

Marketing To Medicaid Managed Care & Commercial Insurance Plans

Breakout Session

Policy, payer, and provider organization executives all seem to agree that our pay-for-volume, fee-for-service system needs to go. But for provider organizations, the ability to participate in the emerging value-based arrangements requires new administrative capabilities and care management competencies. In this unique session, we will focus on how provider organizations can market their organization and services to managed care organizations – and the skills they need to be successful in these relationships. In this session, we’ll discuss the organizational capabilities required to succeed in managed care contracting and hear both the payer and provider organization perspective on how to successfully partner with payers.

Steve Ramsland, Ed.D.

Steven Ramsland, Ed.D. has more than 25 years of experience in the development and delivery of health and human service programs. He has held senior leadership positions in the development of several innovative service systems including Medicare Shared Savings Program ACOs, a primary care provider network, several national managed behavioral health initiatives, and innovative community programming.

Dr. Ramsland recently served as chief executive officer at Redwood Community Health, a network of 17 community health centers, with over 40 sites in northern California. The organization provides primary care, behavioral health and oral health to over 240,000 patients each year. While at Redwood he managed the implementation of an ACO, a capitated Medicaid managed care contract, and a pay-for-performance quality improvement program.

Prior to this, he was the executive director of Buckelew Programs, a leading provider of community-based, recovery-oriented behavioral health programs in Northern California. The organization provides supported housing and employment, and recovery supports, as well as two social enterprise businesses.

Dr. Ramsland was previously vice president and practice leader for United Behavioral Health’s Public Sector Practice (now Optum).   In that role, he analyzed opportunities and implemented strategies to expand public sector business – and collaborated with executive leadership at United to design and build organizational capabilities in public sector behavioral health, disease management, and consumer-directed care to support revenue growth.

In addition to his work with Optum, Dr. Ramsland also served as the chief development officer and Public Sector President for Comprehensive Behavioral Care, and as vice president, Government Programs, for ValueOptions. He has worked with government policy leaders throughout the nation to develop new, recovery-oriented approaches to delivering behavioral health and integrated medical services. He was also the Chief Executive Officer of a community mental health center, SERV Behavioral Health in New Jersey.

Dr. Ramsland earned a Doctoral Degree in Psychology from Rutgers University, a Master’s Degree in Psychology from Duquesne University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and English from Trinity College.

John F. Talbot, Ph.D.

John Talbot, Ph.D. has more than 30 years’ experience in all aspects of health care, including upper management, consultation, education, direct clinical work, and serving as the president of a non-profit board.

Dr. Talbot is currently Vice President of Corporate Strategy at Jefferson Center for Mental Health (JCMH) in Denver, Colorado. In this role, he is responsible for the development and implementation of corporate strategy, strategic alliances and new product development. Dr. Talbot also served as the Vice President of Integration Development for JCMH where he led all new business development opportunities in integrated care and participated in region wide and statewide initiatives.

Prior to his current role, Dr. Talbot served as an Executive Vice President for OPEN MINDS for eight years and provided consultation, training and operational assistance to behavioral health providers, nonprofit organizations, and managed care organizations across the country. His areas of focus for consultation and training include strategic planning, the development of successful strategic alliances, board development, organizational reengineering, operations management, management and leadership development, and change management.

Previously, Dr. Talbot served as the President of Colorado Care Management, a network of agencies providing care to children and families. Dr. Talbot led the development of a coalition of Colorado business executives to address the issues of providing care to abused and neglected children, and the establishment of a nationwide purchasing cooperative for non-profits. The innovative work of Colorado Care Management received national recognition, including participation in a Federal IV-E waiver study that demonstrated measurable superior clinical outcomes.

Dr. Talbot’s additional experience includes serving as the Associate Dean of Operations, the Director of the Master of Health Systems Program, and Adjunct Faculty for University College, University of Denver. He also held a senior management position at Mount Airy Psychiatric Center in Denver, Colorado.

Dr. Talbot has been a featured speaker at a number of national and state venues, and is the former publisher and editor of Today’s Healthcare Manager, a newsletter focusing on leadership and management skills for healthcare managers, and has written numerous articles, manuals, and book chapters.

Dr. Talbot received his Ph.D. from the University of Denver, Master of Occupational Therapy from Western Michigan University, and Bachelor of Science from Loyola University.


11:00 am – 12:00 pm CT

Taking Innovation From Concept To Reality

Plenary Address

The health and human service industry doesn’t have a great track record for adopting innovation. But if you are a manager, how do you get your customers and your own staff to embrace innovation? The ability not only to innovate – but to take innovation to successful scale is one of the hallmark competencies of organizations that will thrive in an environment that rewards adoption of the new and requires organizational risk. In this session, OPEN MINDS CEO Monica E. Oss will address the importance of innovation to strategy, the challenges (both external and internal) in the innovation adoption cycle, and the key elements to make adoption and rapid implementation possible in your market and in your organization.

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 and 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.


12:00 pm – 12:00 pm CT

Closing Remarks

Closing Remarks