GT Independence has appointed Chris Karkenny as Chief Executive Officer as the financial management services company expands its self-directed care platform across more than 21 states.
Karkenny joins the company with more than 25 years of leadership experience spanning healthcare and nonprofit organizations and will also become a member of GT Independence’s board.
He succeeds the company’s existing leadership structure while working alongside President D. Pearl Barnett and John Carmichael, who will continue supporting the organization as board members.
GT Independence currently serves more than 60,000 people who self-direct their long-term care and support services at home and in community-based settings.
The company’s model is designed to give individuals greater control over who provides their care and how that care is delivered while helping state Medicaid agencies and managed care organizations operate compliant self-direction programs.
Karkenny most recently served as CEO of NVISION Eye Centers, a position he held beginning in 2018.
During his tenure, NVISION became one of the country’s faster-growing ophthalmology companies, giving him experience managing an expanding healthcare organization across multiple markets.
GT Independence said his appointment is intended to support the company’s next phase of national growth while maintaining its focus on person-centered services.
The organization also emphasized Karkenny’s experience building teams and operating in high-growth environments.
For Karkenny, the opportunity combines healthcare operations with a mission centered on increasing independence and choice for individuals receiving long-term services and support.
KEY QUOTES:
“Chris has a deep appreciation for our mission and a clear vision for how GT Independence can further extend its impact across the country.”
John Carmichael, Co-Founder Of GT Independence
“The team has built a strong culture centered on serving thousands of participants, families and caregivers while helping state Medicaid agencies and managed care organizations operate high-quality, compliant programs.”
Chris Karkenny, Chief Executive Officer Of GT Independence
