Search

James P. Johnson

In his role as Executive Vice President of Operations at Accessia Health, James oversees both Operations and Information Technology, bringing strategic integration to the organization’s internal systems, patient services, and digital infrastructure. With more than 25 years of experience across commercial, Medicaid, and Medicare health plans, he is known for delivering measurable outcomes in areas such as profit and loss management, value-based care models, network development, and digital innovation.

James has held senior leadership roles at Virginia Premier, WellCare Health Plans, and Humana. Most recently, he served as Health Plan President/COO and VP of Network Development/Operations at Molina Healthcare of Virginia, overseeing state operations including business outsourcing relationships. His leadership delivered results across key initiatives including the integration of core systems post-M&A, achieving top-tier operational readiness scores for Medicaid programs, and implementing innovative provider engagement that strengthened compliance and provider satisfaction.

Beginning his career as a Healthcare Administration Specialist in the U.S. Armed Forces Medical Command, James built a foundation of service and operational rigor. That experience, combined with his civilian tenure, shaped his deep expertise in health plan payer functions, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement. His leadership approach has driven results by focusing on his OATS framework: Optimizing technology and operations, Accelerating performance growth, Transforming teams, and delivering Service excellence.

James holds a B.S. in Information Technology and is a recognized thought leader in network development, claims operations, regulatory strategy, and value-based contracting. A native of Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, he brings not only professional expertise but also a strong sense of purpose and equity to the healthcare industry.

Robert Jagielski, JD

Robert brings 21 years of experience actively managing operational compliance issues with a strategic focus on pending legislation, emerging reimbursement trends, and future paradigm shifts. He has executive-level experience working with large healthcare systems, clinically integrated physician networks, accountable care organizations, physician practice management and consulting firms, and vertically integrated insurance companies.

Most recently, he served as the lead subject matter expert and compliance analyst for the CMS Contractor on the ACO Realizing Equity, Access, and Community Health (REACH) Model. Robert views Accessia Health’s program model, which goes beyond copayment assistance to offer a holistic, inclusive, and outcomes-focused approach, as an ideal complement to the ACO REACH model and the broader transition to value-based care.

He is a published legal analyst who has authored compliance manuals, web-based training, and a variety of news articles for Commerce Clearing House, Wolters Kluwer Health, American Health Lawyers Association, and the Society for Corporate Compliance Ethics.

Outside of work, Robert enjoys spending time with his family and supporting charitable organizations focused on autism and child healthcare.

Kristin Shifflett

A dedicated leader at Accessia Health since 2015, Kristin began as a Patient Services Representative and progressed to Director of Operations, exemplifying her outstanding leadership skills.

Beyond managing programs, supporting callers, and overseeing operations, Kristin is driven by a deep commitment to helping others. Her academic foundation in Biomedical Engineering from Virginia Commonwealth University adds a unique perspective to her role, underscoring her holistic approach.

In both her professional and personal life, Kristin’s unwavering commitment to aiding others shines through, making her a compassionate and effective leader. When not working, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband and two boys.

I am currently on assistance, do I have to reapply at the beginning of the year?

At this time, Accessia Health only requests re-enrollment information every two (2) years based on your eligibility review date. There is not need to reenroll at the beginning of the year. If you are unsure of your review date, you can locate this information in your patient portal or by calling 800-366-7741 and using our automated system.

When will I receive information about my assistance in 2025?

Assistance amounts have been finalized for 2025 and communications have been sent to those that have been impacted by any changes.

If you did not receive a letter in the mail or through your patient portal, the annual assistance amount for your program may not have changed.

Beginning January 1, 2025, all 2025 assistance amounts can be found on the patient programs page of our website. You can also send us a message through your patient portal account if you have questions about your assistance.

 

Jenn Kerfoot

Jenn brings their deep understanding of the complexities and nuances within the Medicare Advantage & Value Based Care landscape to their work at DUOS, where they lead business development, go-to-market strategy, and marketing. By leveraging data-driven insights and market intelligence, they spearhead the development of tailored products and services that cater to the unique needs of Medicare Advantage plans and deliver unparalleled value to clients and beneficiaries alike.

As a military veteran, Jenn brings leadership and vision to diverse audiences, and offers a unique perspective within start-ups and high-growth stage companies: previous leadership roles include FarmboxRx, Excelera Health and NationsBenefits. With a passion for organizational mission and values, as well as the unique competitive advantage of establishing a strong culture, Jenn works with all departments to streamline processes and programs that integrate the member experience into every aspect of the business.

Beyond their role at DUOS, Jenn actively contributes to the industry’s progress as a thought leader leveraging expertise and advocacy for innovative healthcare practices to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality.

Recognizing Chronic Disease Day

Jennifer Noonan, MSN, RN, Sr Director Clinical Programs & Compliance, Accessia Health – Today, we’re recognizing Chronic Disease Day. Living with…

What do you cover besides medications and insurance premiums?

Accessia Health provides financial assistance for:

  • health insurance premiums
  • medication copayments
  • travel (limited to a max assistance of $500 per year)
  • other approved essential medical expenses**

 

**Coverage of items or services under Medical Expenses is determined at the sole discretion of Accessia Health; and is subject to change based on clinical correlation with covered diagnosis. Coverage of such items and services may not be appealed by any individual or company.

Questions related to specific items covered under Medical Expenses require clinical review for compliance purposes, and responses will be provided within 3-5 business days. Inquiries about coverage of medical expenses should be directed to assistance@accessiahealth.org.

Caitlin Donovan

Caitlin Donovan is the Global Head of Uber Health. She joins Uber most recently from MyOrthos, an Orthodontic Services Organization, where she served as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to that, Caitlin developed her knack for tackling obstacles to patient care as Chief Operating Officer of Circulation and Executive Vice President of Operations at LogistiCare (now ModivCare), specialty benefit managers in the non-emergency medical transportation space. She also served as the Vice President of Operations at CareCentrix with a focus on home health and post-acute care. Early in her career, she worked in finance as an investor at Bain Capital and as a member of the internal consulting group at Summit Partners. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Economics from Harvard University and lives in Dover, Massachusetts with her husband and two boys.

If I utilize all my funding before the end of the calendar year, can I request additional funding from Accessia Health?

The maximum assistance amounts are determined on an annual basis. If your assistance amount is utilized before the end of the calendar year, we are unable to offer additional assistance in that year.

We encourage you to reach out to your provider’s office or pharmacy to discuss any additional resources. You can also find resources on the patient programs page.

I did not utilize all my assistance from 2024, will it carry over into 2025?

Assistance from 2024 does not carry over to 2025.

Your assistance amount will reset on January 1, 2025.

Please visit the patient program page to see if any changes to the total assistance amount are noted for your assistance.

Why has my amount of assistance changed?

Accessia Health relies on the generosity of donors to fund our programs, so we can then support our patients. Funding amounts are carefully reviewed each year to determine how much assistance we can offer to reach as many patients as possible.

Living with GIST

November 17, 2022 — Living with a chronic condition or disability is hard enough, then there are the never-ending medical…

DEI Calendar for October

October 1, 2022 — Each month, our Diversity & Inclusion Committee compiles events highlighting the diversity of our communities. For…

DEI Calendar for September

September 1, 2022 — Our Diversity & Inclusion Committee compiles events highlighting the diversity of our communities. This month, we…

DEI Calendar for August

August 1, 2022 — Our Diversity & Inclusion Committee compiles events highlighting the diversity of our communities. This month, we…

How long do I have to submit claims?

Claims must be submitted within 4 months from the date of service to be considered for payment.

How are assistance payments made?
  • For copayment assistance with your FDA approved and indicated medications for the program diagnosis, an Accessia Health pharmacy benefit card is mailed to you upon approval. To request another copy, call us at (800) 366-7741. In addition to your Accessia Health ID number, below is the information that is on your pharmacy benefit card and needed for your pharmacy to process a claim.

Rx BIN:610020
PCN:PXXPDMI
Click here to view a list of Group Codes by Program.

For all other assistance, a payment card will be provided for you to pay eligible vendors and/or providers directly. If you are unable to use your payment card, we may be able to reimburse you or pay the vendor directly via check.

I may not need to use my assistance very often. What should I do?

If Accessia Health has not made a payment on your behalf in four (4) months, your assistance will close. Once your assistance closes, you will need to reapply.

How do I obtain my remaining amount of assistance?

You may view pay history and remaining assistance amount through your patient portal account. This information may also be available by speaking with a representative at (800) 366-7741.

Do I have to do anything to keep my assistance active?

Accessia Health periodically reviews each patients’ assistance to verify that eligibility criteria is still met. The review timeframe may vary by program. Notification will be sent to the patient 30 days prior to the due date.*

*Any changes to address, household income and/or health insurance should be immediately reported to Accessia Health.

I submitted my application and required documentation. When will I know if I am approved?

We will send a determination of patient eligibility via postal mail or patient portal account once documentation has been reviewed.

How can I check the status of my application?

You may check the status of your application(s) through the patient portal or speak with a representative at 1-800-366-7741.

What are application requirements?

Patients must meet financial and insurance requirements as well as have an eligible diagnosis. Documentation may be requested to confirm any of these requirements.

Do you have to be a US citizen to apply?

To be eligible for assistance, you must legally reside in the US or one its territories and receive treatment from a US provider.

Is there a time limit to submit claims to Accessia Health?

Accessia Health has a 4-month timely filing limit for eligible claims or payments. Claims must be received within 4 months of the eligible date of service to be considered for payment.

Why won’t you assist my patient with their medication cost?

Accessia Health provides copay assistance for eligible patients if the treatment prescribed by their physician is FDA approved and indicated for the program diagnosis.

How do I submit claims for my patient?

Pharmacy claims may be submitted electronically for approved patients. Pharmacies must be contracted with our PBM vendor to submit electronic claims for pharmacy billing of eligible medication copays. Some helpful billing information is below.

Rx BIN: 610020
PCN: PXXPDMI
Click here to view a list of Group Codes by Program

How do I obtain the patient’s Accessia Health ID number?

If the pharmacy or provider has a date of service(s) that they wish to submit to Accessia Health, they may obtain the ID number from the patient.

How can I confirm the start date for my patient’s Accessia Health assistance?

Accessia Health may only provide very limited information to the pharmacy or provider. Correspondence is sent to the patient once an eligibility determination has been made.

How will I know if my patient has been approved or denied?

Correspondence is sent to the patient once an eligibility determination has been made. The patient may contact Accessia Health to speak with a representative.

What information is needed to apply for my patient?
  • Patient’s first and last name
  • Patient’s date of birth
  • Demographic information
  • Health Insurance details
  • Estimated household income
  • Number of household dependents
How can I apply for my patient?

Applications may be submitted here

How can I submit required documents on behalf of my patient?
I am a new patient and would like to apply for assistance. What should I do?

If you are a new patient seeking assistance, please visit www.accessiahealth.org to view our current programs and/or apply for assistance.

Do I need to reapply for assistance with Accessia Health now that you changed your name?

No, you do not need to reapply for assistance. However, as you know, we periodically review all patient’s eligibility to ensure that you continue to qualify for assistance. If you receive a letter which requests documentation to determine continued eligibility, it is very important to submit all requested information by the provided deadline. Failure to do so will result in assistance closure and a new application would be needed.

Mark Harris

After a brief stint in minor league baseball, Mark’s career started as a database programmer with Choicepoint/LexisNexis. He was convinced by an acquaintance to move into consulting at Ariba (since purchased by SAP) where he found a successful niche implementing spend management software. Rising through the consulting ranks, including a brief detour at IBM, he made his way into management. Since then he has held roles across SAP’s procurement software division, including Customer Success, Solution Management, Marketing, and Product Management. He recently spent two years in Japan working on a comprehensive regional improvement program before returning to the US and the Product organization.

Mark acquired his BS in Psychology from the College of William and Mary in Virginia. He currently lives in San Diego, CA where he enjoys spending as much time outside as possible.

Lee Smith

Lee served as Chair of the Accessia Health Foundation Board in 2021 before joining the Accessia Health Board. He is the Head of Commercial with Element Science, Inc. with over 15 years of experience in effective medical-based sales management.

Lee is an entrepreneurial leader who develops high-performance sales teams and creates winning sales organizations with heightened senses of urgency and accountability. Prior to his time at Element Science, he was the Head of Sales for Philips BioTel Heart, National Sales Director for LipoScience, and Regional Sales Manager for Hologic, Inc.

Lud Kimbrough

Lud Kimbrough is the Managing Partner at Fahrenheit Advisors. Lud has provided financial, strategic, and executive management expertise to publicly held, private equity-backed, and startup companies. He is adept at balancing human capital, strategy and analytics, and shareholder and lender interests by serving as a leader and advisor to dozens of middle market companies during periods of turbulence, turnaround, and dramatic growth. With more than 35 years of entrepreneurial and consulting experience, Lud has built strong teams by developing a clear vision and strategies, embracing new technologies, and understanding risk tolerance.

Throughout his career, Lud has served in various roles including president, CEO, and managing director. He has led or advised businesses in diverse industry sectors including marketing, aerospace tooling, cryogenics equipment, outdoor advertising, and cable television. He has guided businesses in exiting or outsourcing non-core segments, stabilizing workforces, transitioning family owned businesses to professional leadership, and leading business spin-off and sales processes in a variety of manufacturing industries.

Brian L Fink, JD

Brian Fink currently serves as President & CEO of an Ohio-based manufacturing company. He holds a Master’s in Business Administration and a Juris Doctor from the University of Akron. Brian is admitted to practice in law in the State of Ohio. He has over 30 years of diverse experience including service on profit and nonprofit boards, small business ownership, executive and operational leadership, and international business development. Brian enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and working on his farm.

Brian Landry

Brian received a BS degree in Marketing from Louisiana State University and served as Senior Vice President of Marketing, Public Affairs and Development for LCMC Health, a five-hospital non-profit New Orleans area healthcare system, until his retirement. He is actively involved with St. Joseph Benedictine Abbey & Seminary College, located in southern Louisiana where he has served on the seminary board, chairman of the long-range strategic planning committee, and was selected as the college’s 2016 alumnus of the Year. Brian is a former board member and past president of Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Louisiana, Inc., and serves as vice-chair on the boards of both the Miracle League of Greater New Orleans and North Shore, which are not-for-profit organizations that provide the opportunity for kids with special needs to play baseball and other sports in organized leagues.
Brian is married and has a married daughter, two married sons, and eight grandchildren.

Russell E. Phillips Jr., CPA, CVA, MAFF

Russ is the Managing Partner of The Phillips Organization, a Certified Public Accounting and Consulting Firm located in Canton, OH. He earned his B.A. degree in Accounting from Walsh University and obtained his Certified Public Accountant’s license from the Accountancy Board of Ohio. He also holds the credentials of Certified Valuation Analysis (CVA) and Master Analyst in Financial Forensics (MAFF), with a specialty in bankruptcy, insolvency, and reorganizations accredited by the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA).

Russ has been married to his wife Tammy since 1982 and has two adult children. He currently serves on several local and national not-for-profit organizations and is an advocate for individuals with chronic health conditions.

Mitch Mula

Mr. Mula received his Bachelor of Science degree in Allied Health School of Physical Therapy from Louisiana State University Medical Center. He has served as a staff physical therapist at Baton Rouge Medical Center and currently owns his own physical therapy practice. In addition to Mr. Mula serving as our board member, he also is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association, APTA Geriatrics Division, and APTA Health Care Administration Division. He is married and has a son and a daughter.

Anna Brown

As VP of Marketing and Communications, Anna Brown brings more than 17 years of nonprofit healthcare experience to her role. Her career spans mental and behavioral health, hospice and palliative care, and national health philanthropy. Prior to joining Accessia Health, she held leadership roles at Hosparus Health, Seven Counties Services, and Community Health Charities. Her achievements include award-winning digital and advertising campaigns, five organizational rebrands, and high-impact storytelling that positions organizations as industry leaders and drives measurable results.

At Accessia Health, Anna leads the organization’s omnichannel marketing and communications strategy, reinforcing the vital role of communications in advancing patient access and organizational growth. She understands that marketing success requires navigating complex, evolving processes while continuously integrating innovative strategies. Her approach ensures marketing is embedded across all departments and serves as a strategic driver of overall organizational performance, not just an external-facing function.

She holds a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Louisville, a foundation that enhances her ability to understand audience behavior and craft communications that resonate across stakeholder groups. Based in Louisville, KY, she previously served as Director of Marketing at Hosparus Health, one of the nation’s largest nonprofit hospice and palliative care organizations. In this role, she was responsible for brand management, reputation strategy, and marketing for multiple brands and service lines.

Outside of work, Anna spends her time with her husband and three children. She is a houseplant enthusiast and loves weekends spent reading, antiquing, and being outdoors.

Mike Holdren

As Executive Vice President of Information Technology, Mike is charged with the creation of strategic IT initiatives that align with the Accessia Health mission and long-term goals.

Mike has extensive experience in all aspects of healthcare technology. In previous roles, he provided CIO leadership and consulting services to a number of nonprofit organizations. Mike was with Marlin Private Equity as a technology and operations executive, providing due diligence and CIO leadership for Marlin healthcare technology acquisitions. Mike has also served in roles as the executive director of software program delivery for Aetna Healthcare, vice president of applications development for Coventry Healthcare, CIO of First Health Services, and VP of application development for Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Virginia.

Jennifer Noonan, MSN, RN

Jennifer Noonan is a dedicated healthcare professional who joined Accessia Health as the clinical program director in April 2021, bringing with 25+ years of clinical nursing experience. Her commitment and expertise quickly led to a promotion to senior director of clinical programs and compliance. With a rich background in clinical practice and management across diverse healthcare settings, Jennifer possesses a deep understanding of program design and the delivery of services within highly regulated environments.

As Vice President of Clinical Strategy and Patient Engagement at Accessia Health, she brings clarity and compassion to the complex landscape of rare and chronic disease support, developing patient programs, building national partnerships, and amplifying the patient voice.

Jennifer’s career began in the fast-paced emergency department of St. Mary and Elizabeth Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky, where she spent 17 years in leadership roles and contributed to EMR development and enhancements. Her passion for healthcare technology and innovation continued with her instrumental role in the clinical development, training, and implementation of Cerner within the Jewish Health System in Louisville. In 2014, she transitioned into hospice and palliative care, where she held leadership positions leading care delivery for both adult and pediatric patients.

Her academic journey includes an associate degree in nursing from Kentucky State University, a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Western Governors University, and a master’s degree in nursing informatics with a focus on data analytics, also from Western Governors University. Jennifer is board member for the National Association of Specialty Pharmacy.
Outside of her professional life, she is devoted to her family life, married to her husband Sean, and a proud parent of four teenagers. When she’s not spending time with her family and two rescue dogs, Jennifer indulges in her passion for martial arts, practicing taekwondo and judo. She also enjoys hiking and exploring new destinations through travel.

Email Jennifer Here

Ashley Lee

Ashley Lee serves as Executive Project Manager at Accessia Health, where she leads and integrates cross-functional initiatives across the Business Development, Operations, and Executive teams. In this role, Ashley ensures that project efforts are cohesive, consistent, and effectively support Accessia Health and the Accessia Health Foundation’s mission, goals, and strategic plan.

She joined the organization in 2016 as Executive Assistant and was promoted to Director of Development and Engagement in 2019. Her current role allows her to return to her career roots in project management while continuing her passion for supporting patients with rare and chronic illnesses.

A Virginia native, Ashley earned her A.A. from Richard Bland College of William & Mary in 2001 and pursued B.A. studies at Virginia Commonwealth University. She and her husband reside just outside Richmond, Virginia, where they enjoy spending time with their daughter and exploring the city and East Coast beaches.

Lamont Brown, MBA

Lamont Brown serves as Executive Vice President of Finance & Administration at Accessia Health. His tenure with the organization began in 2008 in the role of staff accountant. Since then, he has held several leadership roles within the organization, guiding the nonprofit through key financial decisions, operational shifts, and infrastructure improvements. His career is marked by a commitment to fiscal integrity and operational transparency, two principles he brings to every strategic conversation.

In his current role, Lamont is responsible for the safeguarding and stewardship of company assets including financial, physical (fixed assets), and human capital. Under his leadership, the organization has strengthened its financial health and operational efficiency to better support patient access and growth.

Prior to joining Accessia Health, Lamont built a successful career in banking and financial services, holding officer roles across mortgage lending, commercial credit, and private client services. This experience equipped him with a strong foundation in risk management and a nuanced understanding of how financial systems can best serve mission-driven organizations.

A native of Richmond, VA, Lamont holds a B.S. in Business Administration from Old Dominion University, double majoring in Accounting and Economics. He further invested in his education by earning an MBA from Longwood University, with a dual emphasis in Economics and Data Analytics.

Outside the office, Lamont has served in various leadership roles within his church and fraternity and has volunteered with youth sports programs across his community. He’s an avid video gamer, enjoys music and fitness, and values time spent with his wife and two children.

Tiara Green, MSEd

Tiara, appointed president in April 2024, brings over 20 years of expertise in the public health and nonprofit sectors to her role. Prior to her appointment, she had been leading Accessia Health in an interim capacity since June 2023, building on her decade-long tenure with the organization.

Throughout her career at Accessia Health, Tiara held various leadership positions, including senior vice president of programs and policy. In this role, she spearheaded strategic development and health equity initiatives and streamlined operational processes. Currently, she is leading an initiative to refocus and strengthen the nonprofit’s impact model, disease funds, and programs. This focus and work will more holistically address the unique needs of the communities it serves.

Tiara is a hands-on leader who is dedicated to fostering organizational growth and coaching staff members to expand their leadership skills. Her visionary approach and extensive organizational knowledge have also been instrumental in growing Accessia Health’s educational offerings for patients and their families.

She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia, and her Master of Science in Education from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, focusing on community health and health promotion. She is an active member of the Forbes Nonprofit Council.

Beyond work, Tiara engages in philanthropic activities and spends time with her two sons and husband.

Hereditary Angioedema’s Affect On Patients

January 12, 2022 — Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) is a rare genetic condition that causes unexpected swelling, and it can happen in different parts of the body. The…

Living with Sickle Cell Disease

September 14, 2020 — Sickle cell disease, or sickle cell anemia, affects thousands of people around the world. September is National…