Dion Buffalow

Leadership and Strategic Vision:

• Developed program as a start-up, established mission, vision, and program culture/identity, and oversaw program development in all areas.
• Led the organization through regulatory, credentialing/licensing, and tech implementations.
• Represented the organization in interactions with community leaders, government officials, and industry stakeholders.

Operational Management:

• Oversaw day-to-day operations, including patient care, administration, facilities, and HR.
• Established and ensured operational goals and performance metrics were met across all departments (clinical, financial, administrative).
• Collaborated with clinical teams to ensure quality care, patient safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Managed resource allocation and developed capacity-building strategies to meet client and budgetary needs.

Financial Oversight:

• Developed and managed the annual budget to maintain financial viability.
• Monitored financial performance, including revenue generation, cost control, and profitability.
• Oversaw billing, contracting, reimbursement, and insurance-related matters to ensure financial sustainability.

Compliance and Regulatory Oversight:

• Ensured compliance with healthcare regulations (HIPAA, TJC, OSHA, etc.), accreditation standards, and quality assurance programs.
• Developed policies and procedures to uphold ethical standards, patient confidentiality, and safety protocols.
• Ensured timely completion of required reporting and liaised with regulatory bodies as needed.

Human Resources Management:

• Recruited, hired, and retained top-tier staff, including medical, administrative, and support personnel.
• Fostered a positive organizational culture with a focus on employee engagement, ethics, training, and professional development.

Stakeholder Engagement and Community Relations:

• Built and maintained strong relationships with physicians, staff, patients, families, donors, and community partners.
• Promoted the organization’s mission and values to external stakeholders, including policymakers, insurers, and the public.
• Developed partnerships and collaborations with other healthcare providers, local and national organizations, and government agencies.

Quality Improvement and Patient Satisfaction:

• Ensured high-quality care delivery and exceeded patient satisfaction goals.
• Implemented continuous quality improvement programs to assess and enhance clinical outcomes and patient experiences.
• Managed patient outcomes and satisfaction metrics, addressing concerns promptly and effectively.

Program Development and Management:

• Led development, implementation, and evaluation of clinical treatment programs across various care settings (INP, RTC, PHP, IOP, OP).
• Designed and refined treatment protocols to enhance care quality, efficiency, and patient outcomes.
• Regularly assessed and modified treatment services based on research, evidence-based practices, and patient feedback.

Leadership and Staff Management:

• Supervised and supported clinical leadership, therapists/case managers, and direct-care professionals.
• Collaborated in clinical decision-making and ensured adherence to policy, treatment protocols and clinical guidelines.
• Conducted non-clinical performance evaluations, provided regular feedback, and offered professional development opportunities.
• Addressed staffing needs, including recruitment, training, and retention of qualified professionals.

Quality Assurance and Patient Outcomes:

• Monitored and evaluated the effectiveness of treatment services.
• Analyzed patient data, outcomes, and treatment progress to meet established quality care benchmarks.
• Implemented quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient safety, satisfaction, and clinical outcomes.
• Conducted various audits and reviews to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and internal policies.

Regulatory Compliance and Accreditation:

• Ensured treatment services complied with federal, state, and local healthcare regulations, including licensing and accreditation standards (e.g., Joint Commission).
• Maintained up-to-date knowledge of healthcare laws and regulations to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Led external audits, inspections, and reviews from local and national regulatory bodies.
• Developed and enforced policies and procedures to uphold high standards of care and compliance.

Resource Management and Budgeting:

• Oversaw management of resources for effective treatment service delivery.
• Developed and managed the budget for treatment services, ensuring financial sustainability while maintaining quality care.
• Identified opportunities for cost savings and resource optimization without compromising patient care.

Collaboration with Other Departments:

• Worked with CEO, CMO, CNE, and CFO to ensure seamless implementation of programmatic changes/developments.
• Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings, contributing to clinical development, marketing/BD strategy, etc.
• Oversaw business development and marketing strategy of hospital services to drive sales volume.

Patient and Family Engagement:

• Developed strategies to enhance patient and family engagement through education, support, and communication.
• Addressed high-level patient and family concerns, resolving issues in a timely and empathetic manner.

Training and Professional Development:

• Stayed current with industry trends, treatment methodologies, and healthcare advances to promote best practices.
• Led continuing education and clinical development opportunities to ensure staff maintained necessary certifications and competencies.

Operational Leadership and Strategy:

• Developed and executed operational strategies aligned with the organization's mission, vision, and long-term objectives.
• Led executive leadership and operational teams to drive efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality care across all services at multiple locations.
• Oversaw the design and execution of workflows, patient care protocols, and processes to enhance patient experience and clinical outcomes.
• Implemented operational improvements and best practices to exceed industry standards.

Management of Healthcare Services:

• Supervised daily operations across various departments (clinical services, business development, marketing, administrative services, facilities management).
• Collaborated with clinical, administrative, and corporate leaders for seamless integration of medical, nursing, and administrative services.

Financial Oversight and Budget Management:

• Collaborated with the CFO and departmental leaders to develop the annual budget and financial strategy.
• Monitored financial performance, identifying opportunities for cost savings, revenue generation, and process optimization.

Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance:

• Ensured operations complied with local, state, and federal regulations, including healthcare laws, accreditation standards (e.g., Joint Commission, OSHA), and industry best practices.
• Oversaw risk management and life safety processes to prevent operational and clinical issues, ensuring patient safety and organizational stability.
• Implemented and monitored internal audits to ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.

Human Resources and Talent Management:

• Collaborated with HR to recruit, retain, and develop facility staff, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
• Provided leadership and mentorship to operational managers and department heads, promoting high performance and team cohesion.
• Led employee engagement efforts to improve job satisfaction, retention, and morale within the organization.

Technology and Infrastructure Management:

• Oversaw the implementation and optimization of healthcare technology systems (e.g., EHR, patient management systems, operational software).
• Ensured technology investments aligned with operational goals to improve efficiency, patient care, and data security.

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication:

• Served as a key point of contact for internal stakeholders (clinical teams, administrative staff, leadership) to align on organizational goals and priorities.

Strategic Growth and Expansion:

• Partnered with the CEO and executive leadership to identify and evaluate growth opportunities, including service line expansions, new patient services, and geographic expansion.
• Led operational due diligence and integration efforts to enhance or develop new partnerships.
• Championed the opening of a new outpatient program (PHP/IOP); overseeing all aspects of the expansion.

Admissions Process Management:

• Managed all aspects of the admissions process, ensuring efficiency, timeliness, and accuracy from referral/initial call to the time of admission.
• Developed and implemented policies and procedures for admissions, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations and payor expectations.
• Managed intake for various patient types (e.g., elective, outpatient, inpatient), ensuring proper documentation was collected and verified.
• Monitored admissions workflow to identify and resolve bottlenecks, reduce delays, and improve patient flow.

Team Leadership and Staff Supervision:

• Led, supervised, and mentored admissions staff, ensuring they were well-trained in policies, procedures, and customer service expectations.
• Conducted regular performance evaluations, provided ongoing feedback, and facilitated professional development opportunities for the admissions team.
• Created staffing schedules to enhance admissions coverage, including evenings, holidays, and weekends when necessary.

Collaboration with Clinical and Administrative Teams:

• Worked closely with clinical staff (physicians, nurses, care coordinators) to ensure admissions aligned with the facility’s capabilities and addressed staffing/acuity concerns.
• Managed billing, insurance, and financial services teams to ensure smooth processing of insurance verification, pre-certifications, and financial counseling.

Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance:

• Ensured compliance with federal, state, and local healthcare regulations related to the admissions process (e.g., HIPAA, ASAM, Joint Commission).
• Monitored and reported on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to admissions/utilization.
• Led regular audits of the admissions process to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions/PIP's as needed.

Technology and System Management:

• Oversaw healthcare management software (CRM, EHR) systems ensuring proper training in data entry and clinical documentation.
• Monitored data integrity, ensuring timely and accurate documentation of patient information.
• Continuous Improvement:
• Identified opportunities to streamline the admissions process, improve patient satisfaction, and enhance operational efficiency.
• Implemented patient feedback and staff suggestions to improve the admissions experience.
• Stayed up-to-date with industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices to ensure compliance and maintain competitiveness.

Supervision and Team Management:

• Supervised and managed a team of healthcare professionals (nurses, case managers, therapists, direct-care staff), providing leadership, guidance, and support.
• Ensured staff were adequately trained, competent, and adhered to the organization’s policies.
• Conducted regular performance evaluations, provided constructive feedback, and supported staff development through mentoring, coaching, and training.
• Assisted in the recruitment, onboarding, and retention of qualified team members.

Program Operations and Workflow Management:

• Oversaw operational aspects of the program, ensuring efficient service delivery.
• Ensured program compliance with healthcare regulations (HIPAA, CMS).
• Reviewed and optimized daily operations, workflows, and processes to reduce inefficiencies and improve service delivery.
• Developed patient care activities to ensure timely and effective care.
• Monitored and maintained patient intake, treatment, and discharge processes to ensure continuity of care.

Quality Assurance and Improvement:

• Monitored and assessed program performance, including clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction, and staff protocol adherence.
• Implemented quality improvement initiatives, identifying areas for improvement.
• Analyzed program effectiveness and provided actionable feedback to the Executive Director and senior leadership.

Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Teams:

• Collaborated with physician teams to ensure coordinated, effective care delivery.
• Facilitated regular team meetings, provided input into care planning, and addressed challenges related to patient care.
• Communicated effectively with the Executive Director and leadership to ensure alignment of program goals with organizational objectives..
  

Program Leadership and Strategy:

• Developed, implemented, and evaluated the overall strategy for the at-risk youth program, aligning it with the organization’s mission, vision, and goals.
• Led the program’s expansion and continuous improvement by identifying service gaps and adjusting strategies as needed.
• Established clear, measurable program goals focused on improving life outcomes for at-risk youth.
• Oversaw the development and implementation of evidence-based interventions to improve educational, social, and behavioral outcomes for at-risk youth.

Staff Management and Development:

• Supervised and led a multidisciplinary team of youth counselors, case managers, educators, and support staff, providing coaching, mentorship, and performance evaluations.
• Fostered a positive, collaborative work environment emphasizing professional growth, teamwork, and youth-centered care.
• Recruited, trained, and retained qualified staff to address the needs of at-risk youth effectively.

Program Operations and Coordination:

• Oversaw day-to-day program operations, ensuring effective service delivery, case management, and tailored interventions for individual youth.
• Monitored program outcomes, including academic achievement, behavioral changes, family involvement, and community engagement, using data to drive improvements.
• Developed and managed the program schedule, ensuring youth participated in meaningful, age-appropriate activities promoting personal growth and positive development.
• Coordinated with community partners, schools, social services, and local law enforcement to provide wraparound services addressing the full spectrum of challenges faced by at-risk youth.

Budgeting and Financial Management:

• Co-managed the program’s budget, ensuring financial resources were allocated appropriately and aligned with program goals.
• Identified funding opportunities, including grants and donations, and supported fundraising efforts to sustain and expand the program.
• Monitored and reported on financial performance, ensuring spending aligned with the budget and resources were used efficiently to meet program objectives.

Community and Family Engagement:

• Built and maintained strong relationships with local community organizations, schools, government agencies, and families to support youth development and program success.
• Served as a liaison to the community, advocating for the needs of at-risk youth and promoting the program’s impact and successes.
• Ensured youth and their families received appropriate services and resources to address issues such as substance-use, mental health, education, and family dynamics.

Data Management and Reporting:

• Collected, analyzed, and reported on program data to track performance, identify trends, and assess the program's impact on youth outcomes.
• Used data to continuously refine program strategies, set new objectives, and measure progress toward achieving the program’s goals.

Advocacy, Strategic Account Management, and Public Relations:

• Led strategic partnership initiatives to enhance the program's visibility within the community.
• Negotiated partnership agreements and contracts for program funding, advocating for the needs of at-risk youth locally and in broader policy discussions.
• Developed and implemented public relations strategies to effectively communicate the program’s successes to stakeholders, including the community, funders, and the media.

Marketing Strategy Development and Execution:

• Developed, implemented, and managed comprehensive marketing strategies to attract new and retain existing customers, driving foot traffic and engagement.
• Collaborated on online and offline marketing campaigns, including social media, email marketing, print ads, and local media partnerships.
• Worked with the creative team to ensure brand consistency across all marketing materials and promotional activities.
• Co-conducted market research to identify customer trends, competitor activity, and potential market segments.
• Co-managed the marketing budget, efficiently allocating resources to achieve the highest return on investment (ROI) for marketing initiatives.

Business Development and Revenue Growth:

• Identified and cultivated new business opportunities to increase revenue and brand visibility, including strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and new customer acquisition channels.
• Developed and implemented customer loyalty initiatives, such as loyalty programs, VIP experiences, and special promotions targeted at high-value players.
• Collaborated with the operations team to design targeted offerings, promotions, and events that encouraged repeat visits and higher spending.
• Explored new revenue streams by hosting events, tournaments, and collaborations with local businesses, entertainers, and influencers.

Event and Promotions Management:

• Oversaw the planning and execution of in-casino promotions, themed events, tournaments, and special marketing campaigns.
• Coordinated with entertainment, food & beverage, and other departments to create cross-promotional campaigns that offered value to guests while driving revenue across different casino areas.
• Measured the success of events and promotions through customer feedback, sales data, and engagement metrics, adjusting strategies to maximize impact.

Digital Marketing and Social Media Management:

• Co-managed digital marketing efforts, including website, social media presence, online advertising, and SEO/SEM strategies.
• Worked with external agencies and in-house teams to create engaging content.
• Used data analytics tools to monitor digital marketing performance and adjusted campaigns to maximize reach and effectiveness.