ONEcare Café: Managed Care Perspectives On Clinically Integrated Networks
Join Alera Health for an exclusive roundtable event, ONEcare Café: Conversations & Connections, designed to foster meaningful dialogue between provider and payer leaders. Hosted in a town hall-style format, this session brings together executives from leading health plan and managed care organizations to explore the strategies and nuances of developing Clinically Integrated Networks (CINs) across various states.
Co-facilitated by Monica Oss, CEO of OPEN MINDS, and Leesa Bain, SVP of Network Development at Alera Health, this session offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with organizations participating in or supporting value-based contracts through a ONEcare Network.
Already Registered For The Institute? Request To Attend The ONEcare Café Here!
Not Registered For The Institute? Register & Request To Attend The ONEcare Café Here!
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.
Registration
Grab your badge, and get registered for the week ahead!
Lunch On Your Own
Enjoy lunch at the hotel restaurant, Bank & Bourbon, or take a walk down to the famous Reading Terminal Market!
Finding An Electronic Health Record System For Your Future: The 2025 OPEN MINDS Seminar On Best Practices In EHR Selection, Contracting & Optimization
Sponsored By: 
Over the past twenty years, adopting electronic health record systems (EHRs) has changed how health services are managed and delivered. As the health care system has continued to evolve with more value-based reimbursement, the push towards integrated care coordination, and the rise in consumerism, the technology infrastructure needed by provider organizations has changed—including EHRs. For most executives, the EHR is a significant investment, and choosing the right system (or keeping the wrong system) can make or break any organization.
This essential seminar is for any executive considering a new EHR system—whether it is your organization’s first EHR or upgrading a system that isn’t delivering the functionality needed for sustainability. Also, OPEN MINDS Associates will guide you through a step-by-step process for selecting an EHR that fits all your organization’s needs. The seminar will cover:
- The best practice model for assessing the tech functionality your organization needs for future success
- Steps for vetting vendors and their products and services
- Budgeting for EHR software and implementation
- Ensuring the best value and performance in contract negotiating
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.
Best Practices For Investing In Technology & AI: The 2025 OPEN MINDS Executive Seminar On Maximizing Your Tech’s ROI For Future Competitive Advantage
In an era of accelerating change, health care organizations must make strategic, data-informed investments in technology and artificial intelligence to remain competitive and financially sustainable. This executive-level seminar will explore how to evaluate, implement, and optimize tech and AI solutions that drive measurable ROI, improve clinical and operational outcomes, and position your organization for long-term advantage.
Through case studies, expert insights and peer dialogue, participants will gain practical frameworks for prioritizing technology investments, aligning digital strategy with enterprise goals, and ensuring adoption and impact across the organization. Designed for C-suite leaders, this seminar offers the strategic guidance needed to future-proof your organization and lead with confidence in an increasingly digital health landscape.
Key topics include:
- Identifying high-impact AI and tech investments that deliver enterprise value
- Measuring ROI beyond cost savings: quality, outcomes, and workforce efficiency
- Avoiding pitfalls in tech adoption and implementation
Paul M. Duck
Paul M. Duck brings over 30 years of experience in leadership and management focusing on managed care, health information technology organizations, strategy, business development, and market expansion, and customer experience optimization to the OPEN MINDS team.
Prior to joining OPEN MINDS, Mr. Duck served as the Vice President, Strategy & Development at Beacon Health Options. In this role, Mr. Duck led the organization’s strategy and business development efforts – responsible for a 30% increase in net revenue and initiated over $1 billion in revenue generation. Mr. Duck was active in national behavioral health initiatives as an executive of Beacon Health Options, including participating as a speaker at national and state association meetings.
Before joining Beacon Health Options, Mr. Duck was the Vice President of Business Development at Netsmart Technologies. During his tenure, Mr. Duck was responsible for business planning, including, the oversight of strategic activities including acquisitions, development, and execution of strategic initiatives, and positioning, and sales of large strategic customers. He also led the rollout of the company’s benchmarking and data analytics product suite.
Prior to Netsmart, Mr. Duck served as the Chief Executive Officer for Coastal Orthopedics and Pain Management, a large group practice with five clinic locations and two ambulatory surgical centers. As the organization’s chief executive officer, Mr. Duck was responsible for significant positive changes in leadership and corporate culture, financial and operational performance, compliance, and governance. Mr. Duck improved net collections by over $1 million per month and grew the practice through negotiating better contract rates with payers. He also implemented an organizational rebranding initiative and launched a new marketing campaign.
Prior to Coastal Orthopedics and Pain Management, Mr. Duck served as the President and Chief Executive Officer for Florida Radiology Imaging, one of the largest outpatient diagnostic imaging service companies serving the greater Orlando market. During his tenure, Mr. Duck led the construction of three new, full modality, diagnostic imaging locations. Mr. Duck revolutionized the company’s culture by creating a highly attractive and functional work environment.
Mr. Duck earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from Case Western Reserve University. He earned his Associate of Arts in Electronic Engineering Technology from the Electronic Technology Institute. Mr. Duck received an award by Inc Magazine for leading Florida Radiology Imaging as one of America’s fastest-growing companies. Mr. Duck recently served as a contributing author to the book The New Health Age: The Future of Health Care in America.
Benjamin Smith
Benjamin T. Smith brings a strong background in database management and technology solution experience to the OPEN MINDS team. With over 15 years of database and software experience, he has demonstrated expertise with Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), Azure, Google Suite/Analytics/Lookup, Word Press, Squarespace, Winautomation, and Woopra. In addition, Mr. Smith has a high proficiency in MS Office applications, including MS Access, and VBA coding. In his current role as Executive Vice President, Technology, Mr. Smith uses his skills to manage the OPEN MINDS SQL Server Database, create dashboards and benchmark surveys, and develops reports for the OPEN MINDS online communities.
Previously, Mr. Smith was the Director of Club Sports for the University of Lynchburg Athletics Department where he automated many functions in the department including data collection, registration, payments, and rosters. He also represented the Athletic Department on the University’s Technology Implementation committee.
Prior to his work at the University of Lynchburg, Mr. Smith was the Assistant Director, Intramural Sports and Technology Liaison at the Virginia Tech Recreational Sports Department in Blacksburg, VA. During his tenure, Mr. Smith implemented several technology solutions for the department including Office365 and SharePoint, and transitioned the department to Fusion for registrations. Mr. Smith also worked with other members of the technology team to design and develop an in-house tracking program and to sync the MySQL backend database with the MS Access database.
Additionally, Mr. Smith has worked as a computer and technology consultant engaging in projects such as developing software using C++ and MS Access, training staff on implementation and Microsoft products, and assisting call centers with desktop software support.
Mr. Smith earned both his Master of Business Administration degree, with a concentration in Organizational Leadership, and his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Information Technology from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in Blacksburg, Virginia.
Grand Opening Of The Exhibit Hall
Sponsored By: 
Join us for an unveiling of all of our great exhibitors! Unwind from the day and enjoy cocktails and hor ‘doeuvres with your peers and thought leaders.
Executive Breakfast & Registration
If you haven’t registered yet, check in with us at the registration desk and then enjoy breakfast in the exhibit hall!
Beyond The Algorithm: Preserving Human-Centered Care In The Digital Era
As AI reshapes health care delivery, Kaiser Permanente remains steadfast in its mission to put people first. In this visionary keynote, Richie Grantham, Senior Manager, Health Innovation at Kaiser Permanente will share how Kaiser’s integrated care model leverages artificial intelligence to enhance—but never replace—the human touch.
Learn how to strike the optimal balance between cutting-edge algorithms and compassionate care, ensuring that technology amplifies provider expertise and deepens patient trust.
Trillium Health Resources 2025 Smart Home Presentation
Cindy Ehlers, MS, LCMHC
Cindy Ehlers, MS, LCMHC, serves as the Chief Operations Officer for Trillium Health Resources. She is focused on improving access to health and affordability through emerging analytics and innovative solutions. She leads several major components of Trillium, overseeing the strategy and innovation for Trillium along with member services, care management, network operations, and innovative development. Trillium Health Resources is a leader in innovation for behavioral health and IDD and the life-long support needed by these populations in NC.
Cindy is a champion for the implementation of evidence based practices. Cindy has developed a robust department within Trillium focused on approaches that address opportunities for health and health disparity throughout eastern NC. She has worked as a public servant for the past 32 years. Cindy has developed many programs and services in behavioral health and intellectual and developmental disabilities across more than half of North Carolina, overcoming rural barriers and many health disparities to meet the service needs of the BH-IDD population.
Cindy offers a unique perspective in her role as an Executive in the NC system, as she is both a parent and professional. Cindy has six children- several who have special needs; she was a therapeutic foster parent and is an adoptive parent. Cindy understands the system from the perspective of the MCO, from the inside out, and as a parent of children with special healthcare needs from the outside in. Her lived experience is unique to find in healthcare at this level in an organization. Trillium is the only health plan in the state with a parent who has been a foster parent and adoptive parent and is the parent of children with IDD on the Executive team of the organization.
Thought Leader Discussion
Join our keynote for an interactive discussion where you can take time to ask your own questions and continue the conversation.
Eye-Catching Digital Strategies For Enhanced Consumer Engagement
In today’s world, consumers are bombarded with millions of images and decisions every day. In this session, we’ll explore cutting-edge strategies designed to capture and sustain consumer attention, as well as potential employees, in today’s fast paced digital landscape. Learn how to leverage innovative technologies, personalize experiences and use data-driven insights to keep your consumers engaged to help achieve the goal of improving long term outcomes.
Hear from Centerstone, a nonprofit health system specializing in mental health and substance use disorder treatments for people of all ages. Located in five states and serving over 100,000 individuals, Centerstone has been integrating alternative and creative approaches to digital marketing for consumer engagement and recruitment campaigns to reach the right audiences at the right time.
Key takeaways:
- Explore new platforms and placements for renewed consumer and recruitment engagement
- Discuss the funding strategies for engaging digital tools and techniques
- Learn new ways to meet your consumers and where they are
Jessica McCarthy
Jessica McCarthy is a seasoned marketing and communications leader with over 15 years of cross-sector experience spanning agency, corporate, and nonprofit environments. With a strong foundation in brand storytelling and a focus on customer engagement, she has built a career developing brands that resonate, connect, and deliver results.
Much of Jessica’s work has been concentrated in the healthcare space— from optometry and biotechnology to chronic pain and, most recently, mental health. In her current role as Director of Marketing Operations at Centerstone, she is passionate about driving efficiency, streamlining processes, and demonstrating that nonprofits with limited budgets can still create powerful, compelling work.
Donald Prince, MBA
Becoming A Technology First Organization With Keystone Human Services
Organizations are looking to make the move beyond traditional operational models and embrace a technology-first mindset. This session will explore what it means to lead with technology – not just in tools and systems, but in terms of outcomes and person-centered care. Whether you’re early in your digital journey or working to accelerate it, this session will provide strategic insights and case studies to guide your path forward as a technology-first organization.
Key takeaways include:
- Developing the leadership and culture necessary for digital transformation
- Identifying and scaling the right technologies to improve outcomes and efficiency
- Leveraging data to enhance performance and patient satisfaction
Nathan Gerhard
Nathan Gerhard serves as the Associate Executive Director of Intellectual Disabilities Services at Keystone Human Services in Pennsylvania. With over two decades of experience in the field of Intellectual Disabilities in both Pennsylvania and Maryland, Nathan is currently concentrating on expanding the use of enabling technology and remote supports throughout Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey. Since 2018, he has been spearheading the initiative to incorporate independent living technology into conventional service models beginning with two residential homes in North Central Pennsylvania. By 2024, Keystone expanded its reach to more than 130 locations, aiding over 250 people with independent living technologies embedded within their natural support systems in their service delivery models.
AI In Action: Adapt, Accelerate Or Fall Behind
Sponsored By: 
Delve into the present and future of behavioral health with an unfiltered examination of AI’s tangible impact. Join industry leaders as they discuss effective strategies, common pitfalls, and transformative applications that are revolutionizing care delivery. Discover how innovative organizations leverage AI to enhance efficiency, improve outcomes, and maintain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.
Tech-Enabled Independence: A Live Smart Home Showcase
Sponsored By: 
Step into an immersive Smart Home Suite designed to showcase how thoughtfully integrated technology can empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to live more independently, safely, and confidently. Sponsored by ShiftAbility, this hands-on experience features a two-room suite: one set up as a fully equipped smart home environment—with voice-activated devices, environmental controls, safety sensors, and more—and the other demonstrating real-time remote support tools. Attendees will get a first-hand look at how remote live monitoring works, offering a unique perspective on how technology can proactively support safety, independence, and timely interventions.
Discover how these smart systems can ease workforce pressures, reduce the need for constant in-person support, and deliver more personalized, data-informed care—transforming the future of I/DD and aging services.
The available demo times will be 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Each demo will be 30 minutes long. We will be in contact prior to the institute in order to schedule your specific start time.
Already registered for the institute, contact Erin Palmer at epalmer@openminds.com.
Not yet registered? Click the Register To Attend button to register for the whole institute.
SimplyHome 2025 Smart Home Presentation
SimplyHome manufactured a sensor-based technology solution for remote support services, Firefly. Assessed on a person-to-person basis, the sensors include information on daily living, movement patterns, and potential safety risks and alert caregivers when needed. The technology enables providers to manage their technology, oversee the status of the consumers being supported by technology, and make changes or updates. SimplyHome will discuss how Firefly is enabling individuals to maintain independence and safety.
Skills vs Strategy: The Tech Staffing You Really Need
During this time of rapid technological advancements and market change, the demand for skilled tech professionals is at an all-time high. But is focusing solely on technical skills the key to success? In this session, experts will explore the balance between technical expertise and strategic staffing, helping organizations navigate the complexities of building a high performing tech team. We will discuss the critical skills required for today’s health care technology landscape, how to align staffing strategies with long-term organizational goals, and the role of leadership in creating a cohesive, agile workforce that can respond quickly. Join us for insights into building a team that not only has the right technical skills but also the strategic vision to drive innovation and enhance patient care.
John Falsetti
Mr. Falsetti is currently the Chief Information Officer for Maryville Academy. A child welfare agency based in Des Plaines, Illinois. His areas of expertise include managing all areas of technology and information services, IT strategic planning, staff development, database development and warehousing, electronic health record (EHR) development and implementation, voice/data infrastructures, helpdesk and user training, business intelligence, and process re-engineering.
Shaping A Chaotic Market At The State Level: A State Association Executive Discussion
As the policies of the new federal administration take shape, it is apparent that many more decisions about health and human services are going to be made at the state level. The question for executives is how best to shape state policy to protect the consumers and assure a functional service delivery system. This session features association executives with decades of experience working with state legislators and governors’ offices on legislative, regulatory, and funding issues. These executives will share their insights on how best to affect state policy – and what they see as the critical issues for state advocacy in the year ahead.
Kathy Carmody
Kathy Carmody is the CEO of the Institute on Public Policy for People with Disabilities, Illinois’ largest statewide association focused exclusively on people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the community agencies that support them. Institute member organizations provide direct services and support to over 35,000 people with IDD and Autism across Illinois. At the Institute, Kathy is involved in a wide array of policy and practice issues affecting people with I/DD and serves on and leads multiple committees and task forces impacting the I/DD service system. Kathy has worked in the IDD landscape for over 4 decades, starting her career as a DSP in the early 1980s. Kathy’s experience includes leading research, demonstration, and training projects that substantially improved the nature and quality of services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as direct support, clinical, and executive management roles within community agencies. As CEO of the Institute on Public Policy for People with Disabilities, Kathy is involved in policy issues affecting people with I/DD and serves on a number of statewide committees and Task Forces, including chairing the Life Choices Team 4, charged with designing the person-centered planning process that will be adopted in Illinois. At theKathy is the proud recipient of the ANCOR 2022 Diane McComb State Association Star Award for leadership in transforming the delivery of IDD services and was elected to the ANCOR national board of directors in 2023.
Transforming The Consumer’s Experience Through A Tech-Enabled Journey
Today’s health care consumers expect seamless, personalized, and convenient experiences—similar to what they receive in other industries. This session explores how technology is reshaping the consumer journey from access and engagement to care delivery and follow-up. Attendees will learn how leading organizations are leveraging digital tools such as patient portals, mobile apps, AI-driven support, remote monitoring, and integrated communication platforms to enhance satisfaction, improve outcomes, and build lasting loyalty. Designed for health care leaders, this session provides practical insights into building a tech-enabled consumer experience strategy that meets evolving expectations while maintaining clinical excellence.
Kim Sonafelt, MS, LPC, CADC
Kim serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Mainstay Life Services, a nonprofit organization supporting people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities throughout Western Pennsylvania. Kim has over three decades of leadership experience in the nonprofit and human service sectors. Kim is known for her visionary leadership, strategic innovation, and deep commitment to advocacy and person-centered support.
Under Kim’s leadership Mainstay has expanded its reach, strengthened its use of data and technology to improve outcomes, and has launched forward thinking initiatives focused on inclusion, independence and quality of life. Her approach centers on advocating for equity in disability services and empowering individuals and families through tailored supports.
Kim holds a master’s degree in psychology and is a licensed professional counselor and a certified alcohol and drug counselor.
Heylo Technologies 2025 Smart Home Presentation
Heylo Technologies aims to solve the lack of interoperability within remote support platform for the I/DD and Aging space. Heylo is a new support platform that takes away the need of remote support professionals to toggle between platforms and devises to provide the same level of care as if there was in an in-person staffing. Heylo integrates intuitive software with dependable hardware such as motion sensors, door sensors, cameras and health monitoring devices.
Brian Hart
Brian Hart is the CEO of Smart Living Systems and ShiftAbility, a Cincinnati-based agency focused on assisting I/DD agencies in transforming from typical caregiving models to technology-first models of service. He has made it his mission to push the boundaries of what options exist for adults with disabilities. He is never satisfied and believes there is always a better way to increase the independence of others and break down the systemic barriers that hold them back. He has been at the forefront of expanding services through the use of technology enabled supports and community clusters of services. Through his work, Brian has been able to assist agencies across the country to implement technology first and remote support to increase the number of individuals they support. Brian believes that technology enabled support is the solution to the problems facing I/DD and Mental Health support agencies, and he is excited to be at the forefront of assisting agencies in this change.
Lunch On Your Own
Enjoy lunch at the hotel restaurant, Bank & Bourbon, or take a walk down to the famous Reading Terminal Market!
Apple-A-Day Giveaway
They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away—and today, it just might keep the post-lunch slump away! Visit the exhibit hall from 1:45 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday to enter our raffle and have a chance to win an Apple product. The lucky winner will be revealed during the raffle prize drawing on Thursday, October 23, at 1:45 p.m.—don’t miss your chance to take a bite out of something big.
Smart Investments In Health Care Technology (& What To Do When Things Go Wrong)
Harness the power of your technology investments as a tool to drive the growth of service lines and expand access to care. Hear case studies from organizations that have made the tough decision of what technology investments are right for their organizations and how they worked with key stakeholders and staff to facilitate smooth implementation.
Additionally, this session will address how to handle setbacks when things don’t go as planned, offering practical guidance on risk management, troubleshooting, and strategies for remaining flexible when the inevitable bumps in the tech road happen.
Vishal Bhatt, MHA
Advancing Crisis Care With Carelon Through Data-Driven Technology
A crisis system of care creates a stronger care continuum, acting as a bridge between outpatient care and inpatient services. It reduces repeated ER visits and hospitalizations and creates better outcomes through stabilization. Data shows that a strong crisis system of care also reduces downstream costs for Medicaid and other payers. Hear from Carelon Behavioral Health, one of the nation’s largest managed behavioral health organizations, with a network of over 120,000 providers, on their Crisis Administrative Service Organization (crisis ASO) model. This model serves as an “air traffic control” center and provides oversight of the crisis system. Using technology, the ASO can link multiple crisis providers and services within a single proprietary platform, which enables closed-loop referrals.
During this session, attendees will learn:
- How Carelon’s crisis service system integrates advanced technology and system management with direct crisis care delivery for a rapid, caring response to those in need
- Hear how publicly funded crisis service systems can promote quality, compassion and accountability
- The benefits of a crisis ASO including provider management, blended and braided funding, quality oversight, and data analytics that can guide a state to a more efficient and effective system
Debbie Atkins, MAC, LPC
Debbie Atkins, MAC, LPC is Vice President of Growth at Carelon Behavioral Health. A licensed professional counselor with 30 years of front-line and executive experience, she blends deep clinical insight with nationally recognized crisis-system expertise.
At Carelon, Debbie leads business development and strategy, expanding crisis-care solutions in multiple states since she joined Carelon in 2022. Her public-sector tenure includes over seeing a 31-county behavioral health region and directing Georgia’s statewide crisis continuum, where she initiated the launch of the 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and built data-driven frameworks that continues to guide service delivery.
Beginning her career in community-based agencies as a clinical director, clinical operations director and state director, Debbie has honed a leadership style that marries clinical acumen, fiscal savvy, and systems thinking. Today she is a sought-after advisor for states and health plans seeking to build compassionate, outcome-focused crisis services that help individuals achieve their best lives
Neeraj Joshi
Neeraj Joshi is the Senior Director of Product Management at Carelon Behavioral Health, where he leads the strategy and development of the Crisis Safety Platform, a technology solution transforming how crisis systems respond to behavioral health needs across the country. With over a decade of experience in healthcare technology, Neeraj has held leadership roles at Experian Health, Cigna, and Express Scripts, driving innovative solutions across behavioral health, prior authorizations, and integrated pharmacy platforms.
His work combines deep user-centered design with scalable system thinking, resulting in measurable improvements to access, equity, and care coordination. Neeraj holds a master’s in healthcare administration from Saint Louis University and is passionate about building teams, products, and partnerships that drive sustainable impact in public health.
What CEOs Should Know About Privacy & Cybersecurity
In an era of increasing cyber threats and evolving privacy regulations, behavioral health care organizations face unique risks and responsibilities. This session is designed specifically for CEOs and executive leaders to understand the critical intersection of privacy, cybersecurity, and behavioral health. Attendees will gain insight into the latest regulatory developments (including HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and state laws), emerging cyber threats targeting behavioral health data, and the reputational and operational impacts of breaches. The session will also offer strategic guidance on building a security-conscious culture, investing in the right protections, and preparing for audits or incidents. Equip yourself with the knowledge to lead confidently and protect your organization’s most sensitive assets.
The State Of AI In Human Services: Findings From The Netsmart & OPEN MINDS Executive Survey
Sponsored by: 
Based on a national digital survey of senior executives in health and human services, conducted by OPEN MINDS and sponsored by Netsmart, this session benchmarks where organizations truly stand on the AI maturity curve. Attendees will gain a clear, data-driven view of how peer organizations are approaching AI, identifying the proportion still in exploration versus those piloting or fully integrating AI into operations. The discussion will highlight the strategies and capabilities that distinguish the “very prepared” adopters, and present a phased roadmap for adoption designed to deliver measurable ROI. Participants will leave with actionable insights into how early adopters are leveraging AI to enhance care delivery, improve efficiency, and gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
GrandCare Systems 2025 Smart Home Presentation
GrandCare Systems aims to reduce the staffing costs for disability and the aging population. Their touchscreen platform assists with cognitive needs, such as checklists, medication reminders, instructional videos, and more. The technology collects data through motion and telehealth sensors and alerts a remote support team. Learn more about how GrandCare Systems are reducing onsite caregiver hours, enabling independence, and cutting costs on staffing.
Laura Mitchell
Laura is a co-founder and CEO of GrandCare Systems, a touchscreen and sensor-based technology platform designed to improve independence and enhance remote supports for individuals living with disabilities and older adults. She has over 20 years of experience in the remote monitoring and connected health industry. In 2015, she founded LMC, a boutique marketing and consulting agency with a technology and senior housing niche. Laura has been featured in Forbes magazine for social media, was a 2012 “Top 40 under 40”, Top 100 Women in M2M in Connected World, and a recipient of the ‘Flame Award for Innovation and Leadership’ in 2011. She was a 2020 Rotarian of the Year, WI Innovation Awards finalist, and a 2022 Women in Consumer Technology Legacy recipient. She frequently volunteers with the Carlsbad Rotary and Cal State San Marcos business program. She lives in Southern California with her husband, two boys, and three dogs.
Scott Feldstein
Scott Feldstein is the director of US Sales and Training at GrandCare. In addition to 20 years of experience in technology, Scott has studied psychology, religion, education and computing. He holds a master’s in education from Marquette University.
Cognitopia 2025 Smart Home Presentation
Cognitopia is a suite of universally designed web-based applications that enable people with intellectual and developmental disabilities with independence and support coordination, virtual training platform, remote coaching support hub, and lifelong transition tool. The application has three components – MyLife (versatile digital portfolio for self-direction and training), Goal Guide (manage goals, track progress, and share accomplishments), and Routines (location-specific multimedia support for task completion.
Tom Keating, Ph.D.
Tom Keating, Ph.D., is the founder and CEO of Cognitopia, home of the Cognitopia Platform for Self-Determination for individuals with cognitive disabilities, including tools for IEP self-direction, goal management, task analysis, and team coordination. He is also a Courtesy Research Associate in the Computer and Information Sciences Department of the University of Oregon. Tom has been focused for the past 30 years on research and development of self-management and community living applications for individuals with cognitive disabilities including autism, intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injury, and cognitive decline due to aging. He developed the Picture Planner™ visual calendaring system and the ScanDo video modeling application and has been principal investigator on over 25 federally-funded technology development projects with over 10 million dollars in funding. His perspective in all of his work has been strongly influenced by his experience of over 30 years as a caregiver for a brother who experienced autism.
The Age Of Digital Therapeutics & How To Be Reimbursed
As digital therapeutics continue to evolve and prove their clinical efficacy, health care organizations face both exciting opportunities and complex challenges in adoption and reimbursement. This session will explore the current landscape of digital therapeutics (DTx), with a focus on how executives can strategically integrate these tools into care delivery while navigating the evolving reimbursement models.
Attendees will gain insight into:
- The role of digital therapeutics in enhancing patient outcomes in behavioral health, chronic disease, and preventative care
- Current regulatory frameworks and FDA-cleared DTx pathways
- Key partnerships, billing codes, and documentation practices that drive financial sustainability
Lisa Palko, PharmD
Lisa Palko, PharmD most recently serves as the Executive Director at the Society for Digital Mental Health and Medical Advisor for Digital Health Strategy at HealthSystemInnovations. Previously, Dr. Palko was the Vice President of Scientific Medical Affairs at AKILI, Inc.
Throughout her extensive career, Dr. Palko worked with various biotech/pharmaceutical companies formulating and executing strategies for medical affairs, and market access teams. With more than two decades working in mental digital health/medicine organizations, she has been invited to advise on several pre-market applications and was instrumental in the development of a military population health tool. She was asked to participate in several speaking engagements demonstrating the use of technology to support the opioid crisis and is a trainer for naloxone administration. Prior to entering industry, she was a geropsychiatric research administrator/clinician and was the Senior Director, Pharmacy, Research and Outcomes at UPMC Health Plan.
Dr. Palko received her Doctor of Pharmacy at the University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy with a specialization in psychiatry and is a passionate advocate for mental health and technology-driven solutions.
Advanced Operations & Clinical Service Delivery Through AI Innovations
Explore the latest advancements, as well as the pitfalls and risks, in clinical care powered by artificial intelligence. Presenters will discuss how AI is revolutionizing patient diagnoses, treatment plans and overall care delivery. Join us to hear more about cutting-edge technologies, including machine learning and predictive analytics, that are enhancing decision-making, improving outcomes, streamlining health care processes and aiding in the issue of workforce shortages. Plus, hear the disadvantages and risks to look out for when implementing the latest AI innovations as they develop at a rapid pace.
Executive Networking Reception
Join us back in the exhibit hall for cocktails, hor d’oeuvres and good conversation. Don’t miss our last networking reception of the year!
Breakfast
Join us for breakfast and coffee in the exhibit hall to start your day! There’s still time to visit with our exhibitors and get scanned to be entered into the raffle drawing.
The Great Debate: The Promise & Peril Of Using AI In Behavioral Health
Join this exciting discussion (or debate) of the topic of the year – the role of AI in behavioral health. In the past 12 months, we’ve seen a significant increase in the adoption of the use of AI in diagnosis, clinical documentation, and treatment planning. There has been growing consumer use of ChatGPT for therapy. Provider organizations are increasingly using AI to analyze clinician sessions. And, the State of Illinois just enacted legislation prohibiting the use of AI for diagnosis, creating treatment plans, or therapy. Joining our fireside chat is Kyle Hillman, the Director of Legislative Affairs for the National Association of Social Workers-Illinois. Mr. Hillman wrote the legislation, The Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act (House Bill 1806), recently enacted in Illinois – and was the lead organizer and lobbyist for its passage.
The current state of AI in behavioral health is something akin to “the wild west”. This timely discussion, facilitated by OPEN MINDS Chief Executive Officer Monica E. Oss, will provide expert perspectives on the potential for AI in the field – and the potential pitfalls for the field, for health plans, and for provider organizations.
Thought Leader Discussion
Join our keynote for an interactive discussion where you can take time to ask your own questions and continue the conversation.
Using Analytics To Streamline Your Health Plan Outreach Process
For health care providers, building strong, collaborative relationships with health plans is key to improving patient outcomes and securing sustainable partnerships. This session explores how providers can leverage analytics to create more strategic, targeted outreach to health plans – driving better alignment, demonstrating value, and fostering stronger networks. Attendees will gain insights into how data can inform outreach strategies, highlight care quality and cost-effectiveness, and strengthen negotiations and partnership opportunities.
Hear from Monarch, a behavioral health and I/DD provider serving more than 27,000 people in North Carolina and Rhode Island each year with a dedicated team of nearly 1,600 staff members. They’ll discuss tools they’ve developed which analyze and streamlines the decision-making process to determine the cost of pursuing health plan opportunities for their leadership team.
Jerel Wilson, MSW, M.Ed.
Making Digital Transformation A Reality: A Managing Through Chaos Roundtable Discussion
Join OPEN MINDS CEO Monica E. Oss and Chief Strategy Officer Paul Duck, for a discussion on up-to-the-minute changes shaping the health and human services landscape and the digital transformation strategy that organizations need to prep for the post-chaos market. Creating an accelerated digital transformation plan can be a key link to remaining sustainable in uncertain times.
The current market is being shaped by many forces – from Capitol Hill to Silicon Valley, from Main Street to Wall Street. Understanding how these factors will impact your communities and being prepared are critical to sustainability and growth. Join us for a lively panel discussion and leave with tools that will have you feeling confident in your plan for the future.
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.
Paul M. Duck
Paul M. Duck brings over 30 years of experience in leadership and management focusing on managed care, health information technology organizations, strategy, business development, and market expansion, and customer experience optimization to the OPEN MINDS team.
Prior to joining OPEN MINDS, Mr. Duck served as the Vice President, Strategy & Development at Beacon Health Options. In this role, Mr. Duck led the organization’s strategy and business development efforts – responsible for a 30% increase in net revenue and initiated over $1 billion in revenue generation. Mr. Duck was active in national behavioral health initiatives as an executive of Beacon Health Options, including participating as a speaker at national and state association meetings.
Before joining Beacon Health Options, Mr. Duck was the Vice President of Business Development at Netsmart Technologies. During his tenure, Mr. Duck was responsible for business planning, including, the oversight of strategic activities including acquisitions, development, and execution of strategic initiatives, and positioning, and sales of large strategic customers. He also led the rollout of the company’s benchmarking and data analytics product suite.
Prior to Netsmart, Mr. Duck served as the Chief Executive Officer for Coastal Orthopedics and Pain Management, a large group practice with five clinic locations and two ambulatory surgical centers. As the organization’s chief executive officer, Mr. Duck was responsible for significant positive changes in leadership and corporate culture, financial and operational performance, compliance, and governance. Mr. Duck improved net collections by over $1 million per month and grew the practice through negotiating better contract rates with payers. He also implemented an organizational rebranding initiative and launched a new marketing campaign.
Prior to Coastal Orthopedics and Pain Management, Mr. Duck served as the President and Chief Executive Officer for Florida Radiology Imaging, one of the largest outpatient diagnostic imaging service companies serving the greater Orlando market. During his tenure, Mr. Duck led the construction of three new, full modality, diagnostic imaging locations. Mr. Duck revolutionized the company’s culture by creating a highly attractive and functional work environment.
Mr. Duck earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from Case Western Reserve University. He earned his Associate of Arts in Electronic Engineering Technology from the Electronic Technology Institute. Mr. Duck received an award by Inc Magazine for leading Florida Radiology Imaging as one of America’s fastest-growing companies. Mr. Duck recently served as a contributing author to the book The New Health Age: The Future of Health Care in America.
Knowing Where You Stand In The Digital Age: The 2025 OPEN MINDS Technology Adoption Survey
Sponsored By: 
Last year, it was proven that value-based reimbursement is here to stay and helps control cost and quality. To succeed in that environment, specialty provider organizations must adopt new technologies that can help master population health management, data exchange, and clinical decision support. For executives to lead successfully, they need to link those tech investments to strategy for sustainable performance and competitive advantage. OPEN MINDS surveyed specialty provider organizations in health and human services to determine where they are moving toward technology adoption. The survey provides information on several critical variables and where you fit in.
Variables such as:
- Number of staff devoted to information technology functions in specialty provider organizations
- The annual information technology budget of specialty provider organizations (including hardware, software, networks, IT consultation services, outsourced projects/functionality, and IT staff)
- A unique list of technology innovations human services executives are implementing and what they are doing to progress on the path to digital transformation
An Update On Innovative New Programs At CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, Community Behavioral Health & Lucet Health: A Roundtable
Join our payer panel to hear the latest in innovative programs that top health plan industries are implementing today. This series will feature different payers from across the nation at each 2025 event.
Jennifer A. Schugam, LCSW-C, MSW
Jennifer Schugam is the Director of Behavioral Health at CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield. In this role, she is responsible for guiding the strategic vision, planning, and execution of behavioral health programs aimed at improving healthcare equity, affordability, quality, and accessibility for Carefirst members across Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Northern Virginia. With over 22 years of experience in community psychiatric services and organizational leadership, Jennifer is a dedicated advocate for mental health accessibility and quality working to further build CareFirst’s behavioral health offerings through innovative care solutions, provider partnerships, and data-driven strategies.
Jennifer’s expertise in behavioral health includes senior leadership roles in both clinical and operational settings. Before joining CareFirst, she served as the Executive Director of Feeding the People, a non-profit organization she founded that provided home-delivered meals, in-home education, and support for low-income diabetics in Baltimore. Throughout her career, Jennifer has focused on delivering care to diverse populations, including vulnerable and underserved communities in Baltimore as a mobile treatment psychiatric therapist, supporting individuals with severe, chronic mental illnesses in state psychiatric facilities, mental health courts, and home settings. At CareFirst, Jennifer drives initiatives to integrate mental health services into the company’s broader healthcare offerings, ensuring that members have access to holistic, person-centered care. Her initiatives include expanding access to preventive care and developing programs that cater to various demographics, leveraging digital tools and data analytics to improve and better connect members to care, tracking emerging behavioral health trends, and assessing program effectiveness.
Jennifer holds a Master of Social Work in Clinical Practice with Children and Families from the University of Maryland, School of Social Work, and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from St. Mary’s College of Maryland. She is a Clinical Supervisor for the Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners and is a passionate advocate for destigmatizing mental health issues. She lives in Baltimore City with her human and dog children.
Joseph J. DiMeo, Jr., MS
Joe DiMeo is the Behavioral Health Coordinator for the Community Health Choices (CHC) initiative at Community Behavioral Health (CBH). In this role, Joe is responsible for helping to ensure CBH’s provider network delivers quality care treatment to CBH members with physical challenges who are living at home and CBH members residing in nursing facilities.
With more than 35 years of experience in the behavioral health field, Joe has a wealth of knowledge in provider networking, geriatric counseling, and supporting older adults with various challenges, including depression, grief, loss, substance use, gambling problems, anxiety, and complications from Dementia/Alzheimer Disease. As a Behavioral Health Coordinator, Joe created meaningful partnerships with the social service aging community, nursing facilities, home health care agencies, advocates, and Physical Health Managed Care Organizations (MCO).
Joe is a member of the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging Advisory Council and the Older Adult Committee for the PA Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) Mental Health Planning Council. Before joining CBH, Joe was the Director of an Older Adult Intensive Outpatient Program for the Einstein Healthcare Network.
Joe earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Temple University, a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology and Human Services from Chestnut Hill College, and a Gerontology Certification from St. Joseph’s University.
Dr. Adam Ligas
Chief Executive Officer Luncheon
If you’re the Chief Executive Officer or Executive Director of an OPEN MINDS member organization, join us for this private networking luncheon. This is an opportunity to share leadership experiences and solutions with your peers from across the nation. Our hosts for the luncheon is Monica E. Oss, Chief Executive Officer and Kim Bond & Michael Allen, Executive Vice Presidents. (To register, contact Erin Deppen, Education Events Manager, at 717-334-1329 or edeppen@openminds.com.)
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.
Kim Bond, MS, LMFT
Kimberly Bond, MS, LMFT, brings over thirty years of experience providing behavioral health treatment in the public and community settings to the OPEN MINDS team. She currently serves as the Executive Vice President of Business Development. In this role, Ms. Bond focuses on growing the OPEN MINDS client portfolio across all nine verticals of OPEN MINDS business.
Prior to joining OPEN MINDS, Ms. Bond served concurrently as a Program Coordinator III and Clinical Manager of Adult Services and a Program Coordinator II and Clinical Manager of Recovery Services for the Ozark Guidance Center. In these roles, Ms. Bond was responsible for the administrative and clinical oversight of the adult outpatient and adult intensive mental health services on the Springdale Campus as well as the adult recovery/co-occurring services, including domestic violence and anger management treatment.
Prior to joining the Ozark Guidance Center, Ms. Bond served as the Executive Vice President of Center Point, Inc, a large substance abuse provider agency in California. In this role, Ms. Bond was responsible for the clinical and administrative supervision of all community-based programs as well as the women and children residential programs. In addition, Ms. Bond also managed budgets, interacted with funding agencies, and built positive relationships with all stakeholders. Ms. Bond was also in charge of proposal and grant writing, staff management, and training, facilities’ licensing and certifications renewals. Additionally, she prepared and submitted monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual reports to various funders.
Previously, Ms. Bond served as the President and CEO of Mental Health Systems, Inc. Ms. Bond was very instrumental in growing the agency from $12M in annual revenue to over $100M and becoming one of the largest providers of behavioral health services in California. In this role, Bond was responsible for the strategic, clinical, financial, and administrative health of the agency, including direct supervision of Senior Executive Staff. In addition, Bond ensured contract compliance of the agency’s 125 different contracts across federal and state agencies and eight counties.
Ms. Bond received her bachelor’s degree in psychology, with honors, and her master’s degree in counseling education from San Diego State University. She is licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in both California and Arkansas.
Michael Allen
Michael Allen brings over 30 years of experience in the non-profit behavioral healthcare industry to the OPEN MINDS team. He currently serves as an Executive Vice President in our consulting practice, where he provides executive oversight and leadership to provider and payer client engagements for OPEN MINDS.
Mr. Allen was most recently the Chief Executive Officer of SummitStone Health Partners, the largest non-profit behavioral health service provider in Larimer County, CO. In this role Mr. Allen was responsible for the planning deployment, communication and accomplishment of SummitStone Health Partners’ overarching corporate strategy. He managed a budget of $80Million and was responsible for more than 750 full time employees and over 12,000 clients annually.
Prior to SummitStone Health Partners, Mr. Allen served as the Vice President of Managed Care & Operations at AspenPointe (now Diversus Health). At AspenPointe he developed and managed a system of accountability for monitoring and evaluating provider performance in seven Colorado counties. He was also responsible for the quality management oversight of all business lines, as well as managing a substance abuse treatment contract with the Colorado Division of Behavioral Health and a child welfare services agreement with El Paso County Department of Human Services.
Previously, Mr. Allen was the Director of Clinical Care for Connect Care, (rebranded as AspenPointe in 2010). In this position Mr. Allen provided supervision to the clinical staff, as well as developing clinical guidelines and services. He was also the project director for the 4th Judicial District Family Reunification Grant and he oversaw care coordination and voucher management functions for Colorado Access to Recovery Grant.
Before Connect Care, Mr. Allen was the Director of Child Welfare Services for Signal Behavioral Health Network, a non-profit that has been managing and expanding substance use prevention, treatment and recovery services in northeast Colorado for over 25 years. Mr. Allen managed a network of Substance Use Disorder treatment providers, programs and services across 35 Colorado counties.
Mr. Allen earned a Bachelor of Arts in Design/Psychology from Brigham Young University, a Masters in Social Work from Case Western Reserve University, and a Masters in Business Administration from Colorado State University. He is a Licensed Social Worker and a Certified Addictions Specialist in Colorado.
Chief Technology Officer/Chief Information Officer Networking Lunch
Join us for this private luncheon for executive leaders of OPEN MINDS member organization – created for Chief Technology Officers and Chief Information Officers. The objective of this networking session is to provide opportunities for executive leaders from across the country to share solutions to the challenges in serving consumers with complex needs. Our host for the luncheon is Joe Naughton-Travers, Senior Associate at OPEN MINDS. (To register, contact Erin Deppen, Education Events Manager, at 717-334-1329 or edeppen@openminds.com.)
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.
Lunch On Your Own
Enjoy lunch at the hotel restaurant, Bank & Bourbon, or take a walk down to the famous Reading Terminal Market!
Raffle Prize Drawing
Don’t miss the much-anticipated raffle drawing at 1:45 pm and come see if you’ve won any of the great prizes provided by our generous sponsors! (Must be present to win!)
Nicole Javitt, J.D.
Nicole Javitt, J.D., brings a unique experience to the OPEN MINDS team with a background in legal advocacy, research, and writing. Ms. Javitt currently works on the OPEN MINDS Executive Education team, where she supports the research, development, and finalization of the company’s education services.
Ms. Javitt’s previous experience includes work for several general practice law firms where she represented families and children in family law and mental health cases. She also has experience and knowledge of the criminal court system, representing numerous clients for drug and alcohol related crimes.
In addition, Ms. Javitt previously served as a Title Reviewer for BOP Land Services, a full-service land broker in the oil and gas industry. In this role, Ms. Javitt reviewed mineral title research, made title approval decisions, and evaluated third-party leases for oil and gas leasing based on third-party research, surface and mineral ownership, tax assessment data, and other environmental factors.
Ms. Javitt also has professional experience as an Associate Attorney with Dethlefs-Pykosh Law Group (DPLG) and Stuart M. Levine, ESQ, PC (deceased). In this role, Ms. Javitt represented and advised clients on a variety of legal matters and conducted extensive legal research in areas of estate administration, family law, corporate law, and workers’ compensation. Throughout the legal process, she was responsible for drafting various legal documents and participated in stages of litigation, including case strategy, pleadings, argument court, arbitration, and hearings. Ms. Javitt also contributed numerous articles on financial and estate planning to DPLG’s blog.
Ms. Javitt earned her Juris Doctor degree at Duquesne University School of Law in Pittsburgh, PA, and passed the Pennsylvania Bar Exam in 2010. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Pittsburgh.
Addressing Financial Sustainability: Executing – And Paying For – Multi-Layered Systems Upgrades
Adapting to the evolving workplace, changing reimbursement models, ever-increasing payer and regulatory demands, and managing a hybrid delivery system—compromising virtual, in-office, and in-home teams – presents unique execution and financial challenges. Based on an organization’s size and scale, how organizations respond may differ significantly. This case study session will explore best practices for small, medium, and larger provider organizations to manage costs, optimize resources, and ensure financial sustainability across diverse work environments while investing in systems upgrades. Attendees will learn how to successfully integrate financial strategies to balance the complexities of associated systems to manage hybrid teams, ensure efficient budgeting, resource allocation, and performance tracking, and meet payer reporting demands.
Thomas Grant
Tom Grant was appointed Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer for Woods Services in March, 2016. Mr. Grant engages in short and long-range strategic and operational growth planning for the organization. He brings more than 20 years of finance and strategy consulting experience to the organization. Prior to coming to Woods, he ran his own management consulting firm specializing in efficiency initiatives, leadership, strategic planning, turn-arounds, and business development needs of both non-profit organizations and for-profit businesses. In this role, he served as the Chief Financial Officer for Archway Programs in New Jersey.
Before launching his own company, he held similar management consulting positions with a number of business development companies. Mr. Grant has counseled clients on a wide range of topics including process optimization, cash flow management, fund raising, structure, best practices, profitability and pricing arrangements. He also has worked as an emerging markets analyst in Thailand, Hong Kong, and a number of South American countries. Mr. Grant holds an MBA from the Darden School of Business of the University of Virginia and a bachelor’s degree from Davidson College.
Supporting Independence At Home: The Inglis Wraparound Approach To Aging In Place
Providing person-centered, inclusive solutions designed to reduce barriers and promote independence for people with disabilities or in long term care is a necessity in today’s health care market.
Founded over a century ago, Inglis House is a non-profit, specialty nursing care facility providing long-term, residential care for 252 adults with physical disabilities. In addition, Inglis Community Support Services supports more than 800 people living independently in the community through resources including accessible housing and care management. Discover how they coordinated a wraparound care model which is improving outcomes for individuals aging in place.
- Learn how to integrate smart home and assistive technologies with home modifications to support independence.
- Understand the importance of ongoing training and support—not just equipment—as part of long-term success.
- Identify practical, scalable solutions for aging services providers, care coordinators, and home modification teams.
Charles Sammartino, ATP
Closing Keynote
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.