Summit | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Reception | 5:00 – 7:00 PM
8:30 – 9:00 AM | Registration, Networking, and Coffee
9:00 – 9:10 AM | Welcome and Opening Remarks
Framing the Day: Why Policy Matters Now More Than Ever
Speaker: Debbie Witchey (ABHW)
Bio: Debbie Witchey began her tenure as the President and CEO of the Association for Behavioral Health and Wellness (ABHW) in 2024. ABHW member companies provide coverage to 200 million people in both the public and private sectors to treat mental health, substance use disorders, and other behaviors that impact health and wellness. Previously, Debbie served for more than 20 years as the executive vice president & chief operating officer of the Healthcare Leadership Council (HLC), an alliance of leading health industry CEOs representing all sectors of health care. As HLC’s chief government affairs officer, she led multiple coalitions that successfully advocated for the passage of the Medicare prescription drug benefit, the CARES Act, and other health care legislation. She also built an award-winning community health program for a hospital system in Charleston, SC, and served as deputy assistant secretary and assistant secretary for management (acting) at the US Treasury Department in both a Republican and Democrat administration. Debbie has a master’s in health administration from the Medical University of South Carolina and a bachelor’s degree in public policy from Duke University. She serves as president of a women’s service organization in McLean, VA. She is also a member of the Women Business Leaders of the US Health Care Industry Foundation and the chair of the URAC Health Standards Committee, in addition to serving as adjunct faculty in Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy. She also fosters dogs for Lab Rescue.
Behavioral Health as a National Priority
Speaker: Brad Lerner (Carelon Behavioral Health & Elevance Health)
Bio: Brad Lerner is a Director of Public Policy of Behavioral Health for Elevance and formerly served as Vice President Government Affairs/Associate General Counsel for Beacon Health Options. He is a government relations professional with more than 30 years of public and private sector experience analyzing and addressing regulatory issues, including complex legal and policy issues in health care. He is a leading expert on Mental Health parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 (MHPAEA) analysis and compliance and works with federal and state policymakers on ways to improve mental health and substance used disorder system of care. He is currently serving as chair for the association for Behavioral Health and Wellness. Previously, he worked as a regulatory attorney at the Federal Communications Commission and as in-house counsel at Cavalier Telephone, LLC. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English from University of Michigan and a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School.
Speaker: Debbie Witchey (ABHW)
Bio: Debbie Witchey began her tenure as the President and CEO of the Association for Behavioral Health and Wellness (ABHW) in 2024. ABHW member companies provide coverage to 200 million people in both the public and private sectors to treat mental health, substance use disorders, and other behaviors that impact health and wellness. Previously, Debbie served for more than 20 years as the executive vice president & chief operating officer of the Healthcare Leadership Council (HLC), an alliance of leading health industry CEOs representing all sectors of health care. As HLC’s chief government affairs officer, she led multiple coalitions that successfully advocated for the passage of the Medicare prescription drug benefit, the CARES Act, and other health care legislation. She also built an award-winning community health program for a hospital system in Charleston, SC, and served as deputy assistant secretary and assistant secretary for management (acting) at the US Treasury Department in both a Republican and Democrat administration. Debbie has a master’s in health administration from the Medical University of South Carolina and a bachelor’s degree in public policy from Duke University. She serves as president of a women’s service organization in McLean, VA. She is also a member of the Women Business Leaders of the US Health Care Industry Foundation and the chair of the URAC Health Standards Committee, in addition to serving as adjunct faculty in Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy. She also fosters dogs for Lab Rescue.
Behavioral Health as a National Priority
Speaker: Brad Lerner (Carelon Behavioral Health & Elevance Health)
Bio: Brad Lerner is a Director of Public Policy of Behavioral Health for Elevance and formerly served as Vice President Government Affairs/Associate General Counsel for Beacon Health Options. He is a government relations professional with more than 30 years of public and private sector experience analyzing and addressing regulatory issues, including complex legal and policy issues in health care. He is a leading expert on Mental Health parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 (MHPAEA) analysis and compliance and works with federal and state policymakers on ways to improve mental health and substance used disorder system of care. He is currently serving as chair for the association for Behavioral Health and Wellness. Previously, he worked as a regulatory attorney at the Federal Communications Commission and as in-house counsel at Cavalier Telephone, LLC. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English from University of Michigan and a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School.
9:10 – 9:40 AM | Keynote Conversation Part 1: The Progress We’ve Made in Behavioral Health and the Promise Ahead
The Progress We’ve Made in Behavioral Health and the Promise Ahead
Abstract: This keynote conversation will assess the meaningful policy gains made in behavioral health in recent years and the work still ahead to build a stronger, more equitable system. The discussion will explore how federal and state actions, innovative financing models, and emerging data are shaping the next generation of behavioral health policy. Attendees will gain a grounded, forward-looking view of where progress is real, where gaps remain, and what policy opportunities lie on the horizon.
Speakers: TBD
Abstract: This keynote conversation will assess the meaningful policy gains made in behavioral health in recent years and the work still ahead to build a stronger, more equitable system. The discussion will explore how federal and state actions, innovative financing models, and emerging data are shaping the next generation of behavioral health policy. Attendees will gain a grounded, forward-looking view of where progress is real, where gaps remain, and what policy opportunities lie on the horizon.
Speakers: TBD
9:40AM – 10:00 AM | Keynote Conversation Part 2: Deep Dive: Behavioral Health Policy and Innovation
Deep Dive: Behavioral Health Policy and Innovation
Abstract: Over the past decade, behavioral health has undergone a profound transformation from growing national awareness to major policy shifts, expanded access, and a stronger commitment to parity. This keynote will examine how far the field has come, the forces that accelerated progress, and the innovations reshaping how care is delivered, including advances in crisis care. Just as importantly, it will look ahead to the policy, clinical, and technological opportunities that can drive the next generation of behavioral health improvement. Attendees will gain a clear perspective on what’s working, what remains unfinished, and where the greatest potential lies to build a more equitable, accessible, and person-centered behavioral health system.
Speaker: Cara McNulty (Vibrant Emotional Health)
Bio: Cara A. McNulty, DPA, is a highly regarded, national leader and health scientist whose success in driving population well-being outcomes spans the employer, government, payer, provider, start-up, and education sectors. As the CEO of Vibrant Emotional Health, she influences the national conversation on breaking the stigma around mental health and improving access to behavioral health care for individuals, families, and communities across the country. A passionate advocate for democratizing mental health care, Cara supports Vibrant’s mission and strategy, helping build a society where emotional wellness is accessible for all.
Abstract: Over the past decade, behavioral health has undergone a profound transformation from growing national awareness to major policy shifts, expanded access, and a stronger commitment to parity. This keynote will examine how far the field has come, the forces that accelerated progress, and the innovations reshaping how care is delivered, including advances in crisis care. Just as importantly, it will look ahead to the policy, clinical, and technological opportunities that can drive the next generation of behavioral health improvement. Attendees will gain a clear perspective on what’s working, what remains unfinished, and where the greatest potential lies to build a more equitable, accessible, and person-centered behavioral health system.
Speaker: Cara McNulty (Vibrant Emotional Health)
Bio: Cara A. McNulty, DPA, is a highly regarded, national leader and health scientist whose success in driving population well-being outcomes spans the employer, government, payer, provider, start-up, and education sectors. As the CEO of Vibrant Emotional Health, she influences the national conversation on breaking the stigma around mental health and improving access to behavioral health care for individuals, families, and communities across the country. A passionate advocate for democratizing mental health care, Cara supports Vibrant’s mission and strategy, helping build a society where emotional wellness is accessible for all.
10:00 – 10:45 AM | Panel 1: Policy Crossroads: What’s Next for Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Regulation?
Policy Crossroads: What’s Next for Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Regulation?
Abstract: This session will take a deep dive into the evolving federal and state regulatory landscape shaping mental health and substance use disorder care. Panelists will offer perspectives from across policy, advocacy, and implementation, examining the key issues driving the next phase of progress, including funding and sustainability, parity implementation, workforce development, integration efforts, and crisis response systems. The discussion will highlight where meaningful momentum is emerging, where gaps remain, and what new policy opportunities could strengthen access and quality across the continuum of care.
Speaker: TBD
Bio: TBD
Moderator: Adam Easterday (Optum)
Bio: Adam Easterday received his law degree from State University of New York at Buffalo School of Law. He currently serves as Vice President of Regulatory affairs for Optum Health at United Health Group. His current role encompasses regulatory affairs advocacy on behalf of the Optum Health division of UHG including Optum Behavioral Health Solutions, which administers mental health and substance use disorder benefits on behalf of over 22 millions Americans in commercial Medicare and Medicaid Plans. Mr. Easterday has been with the United Health Group in successive roles for the past 15 years.
Abstract: This session will take a deep dive into the evolving federal and state regulatory landscape shaping mental health and substance use disorder care. Panelists will offer perspectives from across policy, advocacy, and implementation, examining the key issues driving the next phase of progress, including funding and sustainability, parity implementation, workforce development, integration efforts, and crisis response systems. The discussion will highlight where meaningful momentum is emerging, where gaps remain, and what new policy opportunities could strengthen access and quality across the continuum of care.
Speaker: TBD
Bio: TBD
Moderator: Adam Easterday (Optum)
Bio: Adam Easterday received his law degree from State University of New York at Buffalo School of Law. He currently serves as Vice President of Regulatory affairs for Optum Health at United Health Group. His current role encompasses regulatory affairs advocacy on behalf of the Optum Health division of UHG including Optum Behavioral Health Solutions, which administers mental health and substance use disorder benefits on behalf of over 22 millions Americans in commercial Medicare and Medicaid Plans. Mr. Easterday has been with the United Health Group in successive roles for the past 15 years.
10:45 – 11:00 AM | Networking Break
11:00 – 11:45 AM | Lightning Talks: Innovations Driving Change
Lightning Talks: Innovations Driving Change
Abstract: Join us for a dynamic series of rapid-fire talks highlighting cutting-edge innovations in behavioral health. Each speaker will share new ideas, emerging solutions, and bold approaches shaping the future of care. Fast-paced, insightful, and energizing, this session offers a front-row seat to the breakthroughs redefining what is possible.
Speaker: TBD
Bio: TBD
Abstract: Join us for a dynamic series of rapid-fire talks highlighting cutting-edge innovations in behavioral health. Each speaker will share new ideas, emerging solutions, and bold approaches shaping the future of care. Fast-paced, insightful, and energizing, this session offers a front-row seat to the breakthroughs redefining what is possible.
Speaker: TBD
Bio: TBD
11:45 AM – 12:30 PM | Panel 2: Financing the Future of Behavioral Health
Financing the Future of Behavioral Health
Abstract: How are health plans, employers, and providers building sustainable models for behavioral health funding? This question becomes more important as the reimbursement system moves to value-based care. This session will facilitate a conversation among panelists representing diverse perspectives and consider how financing models can help to drive more integrated, quality-focused care.
Speaker: James Gelfand (ERIC)
Bio: James Gelfand is president and CEO of The ERISA Industry Committee (ERIC), having previously served as its senior and then executive vice president. James oversees all aspects of the association’s activities, which focus on programs that shape federal and state health and retirement benefit policies, and that impact ERIC member companies’ ability to operate under federal ERISA protection from a patchwork of conflicting state and local laws. He has brought prominence to ERIC among federal and state lawmakers, thought leaders, and major companies in the U.S. and globally. James provides strategic leadership to ERIC’s legislative, regulatory and legal advocacy; membership and partnerships; and communications and operations, to achieve ERIC’s mission. James has been recognized as a top industry lobbyist by both the National Institute for Lobbying & Ethics and The Hill. He has served on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of nonprofits and charities with a focus on policy and advocacy, including the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions, and the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance.
Speaker: Hannah Maniates
Bio: Hannah Maniates is the Director of Medicaid Programming at the National Association of Medicaid Directors. In this role, she leads NAMD’s state-to-state learning program, which connects Medicaid agencies to share strategies and address common challenges. Before joining NAMD, Hannah worked in substance use and mental health policy, holding roles at the City of Boston’s Office of Recovery Services, the National Center for PTSD at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Bloomberg American Health Initiative’s addiction and overdose team. She holds an MPH from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and a B.A. in neuroscience from Wesleyan University.
Abstract: How are health plans, employers, and providers building sustainable models for behavioral health funding? This question becomes more important as the reimbursement system moves to value-based care. This session will facilitate a conversation among panelists representing diverse perspectives and consider how financing models can help to drive more integrated, quality-focused care.
Speaker: James Gelfand (ERIC)
Bio: James Gelfand is president and CEO of The ERISA Industry Committee (ERIC), having previously served as its senior and then executive vice president. James oversees all aspects of the association’s activities, which focus on programs that shape federal and state health and retirement benefit policies, and that impact ERIC member companies’ ability to operate under federal ERISA protection from a patchwork of conflicting state and local laws. He has brought prominence to ERIC among federal and state lawmakers, thought leaders, and major companies in the U.S. and globally. James provides strategic leadership to ERIC’s legislative, regulatory and legal advocacy; membership and partnerships; and communications and operations, to achieve ERIC’s mission. James has been recognized as a top industry lobbyist by both the National Institute for Lobbying & Ethics and The Hill. He has served on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of nonprofits and charities with a focus on policy and advocacy, including the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions, and the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance.
Speaker: Hannah Maniates
Bio: Hannah Maniates is the Director of Medicaid Programming at the National Association of Medicaid Directors. In this role, she leads NAMD’s state-to-state learning program, which connects Medicaid agencies to share strategies and address common challenges. Before joining NAMD, Hannah worked in substance use and mental health policy, holding roles at the City of Boston’s Office of Recovery Services, the National Center for PTSD at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Bloomberg American Health Initiative’s addiction and overdose team. She holds an MPH from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and a B.A. in neuroscience from Wesleyan University.
12:30 – 1:30 PM | Networking Lunch + Spotlight Interview
Red, Blue, and Breaking Through: The Latest Moves in Behavioral Health Policy
Abstract: In this upbeat and bipartisan briefing, we’ll break down the most consequential legislative and administrative developments impacting behavioral health. Expect a clear-eyed exploration of each party’s priorities, the negotiations shaping current proposals, and the regulatory shifts already underway. The session provides a dynamic, cross-party perspective on how federal policy is evolving and what stakeholders should be watching in the months ahead.
Speaker: Meg Houck Marshall (Red + Blue Strategies)
Bio: TBD
Speaker: Melanie Nathanson (Red + Blue Strategies)
Bio: TBD
Abstract: In this upbeat and bipartisan briefing, we’ll break down the most consequential legislative and administrative developments impacting behavioral health. Expect a clear-eyed exploration of each party’s priorities, the negotiations shaping current proposals, and the regulatory shifts already underway. The session provides a dynamic, cross-party perspective on how federal policy is evolving and what stakeholders should be watching in the months ahead.
Speaker: Meg Houck Marshall (Red + Blue Strategies)
Bio: TBD
Speaker: Melanie Nathanson (Red + Blue Strategies)
Bio: TBD
1:30 – 2:15 PM | Panel 3: Integration in Action with Models That Work
Integration in Action with Models That Work
Abstract: This panel will highlight proven approaches that integrate behavioral health with primary care, specialty care, and community support. Presenters will share strategies that have demonstrated success and explore key questions for the field: Which models can be scaled effectively, and what policy changes are needed to sustain their impact?
Speaker: Caroline Carney (Magellan Health)
Bio: Dr. Caroline Carney is the chief executive officer of Magellan Health, a leader in managing the fastest-growing, most complex areas of health, including special populations, and offering an insightful portfolio of broad solutions focused on population health, condition management and meeting the specific needs of our clients. She is responsible for Magellan’s strategic direction and overall growth, as well as the development and operational execution of the Company’s business strategy.
Speaker: Arthur Evans (American Psychological Association)
Bio: Described as a visionary and transformational leader, policymaker and health care innovator Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD, is CEO of the American Psychological Association, the leading scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States. With over 189,000 researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants and students as APA members, a top priority of Evans’ current work is applying psychological science and knowledge to a wide range of complex societal issues. Previously, for over two decades, Evans served in public policy positions in Philadelphia and Connecticut, where he led the transformation of their behavioral health systems and their approaches to serving a wide range of individuals with complex needs. Evans has employed science, research, community activism, spirituality, traditional clinical care, policy, and cross-system collaborations to change the status quo around behavioral health. Over the years he has received national and international recognition, including prestigious awards in government, healthcare service, visionary leadership, actionable advocacy, equity and social justice.
Speaker: Chuck Ingoglia (National Council of Mental Wellbeing)
Bio: Chuck Ingoglia is the president and CEO of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing where he leads the national charge to ensure people have access to quality, affordable mental health and addiction services. To accomplish this, he harnesses the voices and support of the more than 3,000 National Council members who serve over 10 million individuals nationwide. Chuck previously lead the organization’s policy and practice improvement work, directing the organization’s federal and state policy efforts and overseeing trainings and programs offered to more than 500,000 behavioral health professionals across the U.S.
Speaker: Adam Bruggeman (Texas Spine Center)
Bio: TBD
Moderator: Jim Laughman
Bio: TBD
Abstract: This panel will highlight proven approaches that integrate behavioral health with primary care, specialty care, and community support. Presenters will share strategies that have demonstrated success and explore key questions for the field: Which models can be scaled effectively, and what policy changes are needed to sustain their impact?
Speaker: Caroline Carney (Magellan Health)
Bio: Dr. Caroline Carney is the chief executive officer of Magellan Health, a leader in managing the fastest-growing, most complex areas of health, including special populations, and offering an insightful portfolio of broad solutions focused on population health, condition management and meeting the specific needs of our clients. She is responsible for Magellan’s strategic direction and overall growth, as well as the development and operational execution of the Company’s business strategy.
Speaker: Arthur Evans (American Psychological Association)
Bio: Described as a visionary and transformational leader, policymaker and health care innovator Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD, is CEO of the American Psychological Association, the leading scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States. With over 189,000 researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants and students as APA members, a top priority of Evans’ current work is applying psychological science and knowledge to a wide range of complex societal issues. Previously, for over two decades, Evans served in public policy positions in Philadelphia and Connecticut, where he led the transformation of their behavioral health systems and their approaches to serving a wide range of individuals with complex needs. Evans has employed science, research, community activism, spirituality, traditional clinical care, policy, and cross-system collaborations to change the status quo around behavioral health. Over the years he has received national and international recognition, including prestigious awards in government, healthcare service, visionary leadership, actionable advocacy, equity and social justice.
Speaker: Chuck Ingoglia (National Council of Mental Wellbeing)
Bio: Chuck Ingoglia is the president and CEO of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing where he leads the national charge to ensure people have access to quality, affordable mental health and addiction services. To accomplish this, he harnesses the voices and support of the more than 3,000 National Council members who serve over 10 million individuals nationwide. Chuck previously lead the organization’s policy and practice improvement work, directing the organization’s federal and state policy efforts and overseeing trainings and programs offered to more than 500,000 behavioral health professionals across the U.S.
Speaker: Adam Bruggeman (Texas Spine Center)
Bio: TBD
Moderator: Jim Laughman
Bio: TBD
2:15 – 2:45 PM | Lightning Policy Round: What Keeps You Up at Night?
What Keeps You Up at Night?
Abstract: Each speaker will have seven minutes to present their candid insights on today’s biggest behavioral health challenges and the solutions they want to see. This fast-paced session will provide a variety of perspectives from various elements within behavioral health.
Speaker: Mary Giliberti (Mental Health America)
Bio: Mary Giliberti serves as Chief Public Policy Officer for Mental Health America, a community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and promoting the overall mental health of all Americans. During her 20+ years in the mental health field, Ms. Giliberti has served as Chief Executive Officer of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Section Chief at the Office for Civil Rights at the Department of Health and Human Services, Disability Counsel for the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions and as a senior attorney at the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law. She has also served on the Interagency Serious Mental Illness Coordinating Committee and as a member of the technical expert panel for the Center for Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health. Mary earned her B.A. at Harvard College and her J.D. at Yale Law School.
Speaker: Ann Geiner (Primary Care Collaborative)
Bio: Ann Greiner is President & CEO of the Primary Care Collaborative. Ann has dedicated her entire career to advancing the quality of U.S. health and health care. She has more than 20 years of experience, including senior-level policy, research, and communications roles, at prestigious national not-for-profit organizations. Prior to leading the PCC, she served as Vice President of Public Affairs for the National Quality Forum; Deputy Director at the National Academy of Science Engineering and Medicine; and Vice President, Policy at the American Board of Internal Medicine. She has a master’s degree in Urban Planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from Hobart and William Smith Colleges.
Speaker: Matt Schappell (Frist Cressey Ventures)
Bio: TBD
Moderator: Brad Lerner (Careolon Behavioral Health, Elevance Health)
Bio: Brad Lerner, JD Director, Public Policy, Behavioral Health, Elevance Health; Chair, Association for Behavioral Health and Wellness (ABHW). Brad Lerner is a Director of Public Policy of Behavioral Health for Elevance and formerly served as Vice President Government Affairs/Associate General Counsel for Beacon health Options. He is a government relations professional with more than 30 years of public and private sector experience analyzing and addressing regulatory issues, including complex legal and policy issues in health care. He is a leading expert on Mental Health parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 (MHPAEA) analysis and compliance and works with federal and state policymakers on ways to improve mental health and substance used disorder system of care. He is currently serving as chair for the association for Behavioral Health and Wellness. Previously, he worked as a regulatory attorney at the Federal Communications Commission and as in-house counsel at Cavalier Telephone, LLC. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English from University of Michigan and a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School.
Abstract: Each speaker will have seven minutes to present their candid insights on today’s biggest behavioral health challenges and the solutions they want to see. This fast-paced session will provide a variety of perspectives from various elements within behavioral health.
Speaker: Mary Giliberti (Mental Health America)
Bio: Mary Giliberti serves as Chief Public Policy Officer for Mental Health America, a community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and promoting the overall mental health of all Americans. During her 20+ years in the mental health field, Ms. Giliberti has served as Chief Executive Officer of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Section Chief at the Office for Civil Rights at the Department of Health and Human Services, Disability Counsel for the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions and as a senior attorney at the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law. She has also served on the Interagency Serious Mental Illness Coordinating Committee and as a member of the technical expert panel for the Center for Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health. Mary earned her B.A. at Harvard College and her J.D. at Yale Law School.
Speaker: Ann Geiner (Primary Care Collaborative)
Bio: Ann Greiner is President & CEO of the Primary Care Collaborative. Ann has dedicated her entire career to advancing the quality of U.S. health and health care. She has more than 20 years of experience, including senior-level policy, research, and communications roles, at prestigious national not-for-profit organizations. Prior to leading the PCC, she served as Vice President of Public Affairs for the National Quality Forum; Deputy Director at the National Academy of Science Engineering and Medicine; and Vice President, Policy at the American Board of Internal Medicine. She has a master’s degree in Urban Planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from Hobart and William Smith Colleges.
Speaker: Matt Schappell (Frist Cressey Ventures)
Bio: TBD
Moderator: Brad Lerner (Careolon Behavioral Health, Elevance Health)
Bio: Brad Lerner, JD Director, Public Policy, Behavioral Health, Elevance Health; Chair, Association for Behavioral Health and Wellness (ABHW). Brad Lerner is a Director of Public Policy of Behavioral Health for Elevance and formerly served as Vice President Government Affairs/Associate General Counsel for Beacon health Options. He is a government relations professional with more than 30 years of public and private sector experience analyzing and addressing regulatory issues, including complex legal and policy issues in health care. He is a leading expert on Mental Health parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 (MHPAEA) analysis and compliance and works with federal and state policymakers on ways to improve mental health and substance used disorder system of care. He is currently serving as chair for the association for Behavioral Health and Wellness. Previously, he worked as a regulatory attorney at the Federal Communications Commission and as in-house counsel at Cavalier Telephone, LLC. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English from University of Michigan and a Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School.
2:45 – 3:00 PM | Afternoon Break
3:00 – 3:45 PM | Panel 4: The Workforce Crisis: Policy Levers to Expand Access
The Workforce Crisis: Policy Levers to Expand Access
Abstract: How are staffing challenges impacting access to behavioral health care? This is a key concern as providers and health plans strive to build sustainable networks that provide adequate resources for care. This session will discuss this challenging situation and potential solutions, including licensing reform and the role of paraprofessionals in expanding access.
Speakers: TBD
Bios: TBD
Abstract: How are staffing challenges impacting access to behavioral health care? This is a key concern as providers and health plans strive to build sustainable networks that provide adequate resources for care. This session will discuss this challenging situation and potential solutions, including licensing reform and the role of paraprofessionals in expanding access.
Speakers: TBD
Bios: TBD