Neil Kennedy's new director focusing on staying relevant in today's health care world

YOUNGSTOWN

Neil Kennedy Recovery Clinic has stood the test of time and it boasts state-of-the-art programs that help people recover from alcohol and drug addiction, officials said.

But, said Carolyn Givens, Neil Kennedy’s new executive director, given the state of the health care industry, with managed-care companies making medical decisions, Neil Kennedy has to remain financially competitive; make sure the staff has the proper credentials; and be diverse enough to qualify for and attract insurance care, including Ohio’s expanded Medicaid populations.

Critical to the clinic’s future is the ability to cultivate partnerships with health organizations, such as One Health Ohio, area physicians and other area behavioral health agencies, so they feel comfortable referring clients to the main campus in Youngstown and a facility in Howland, Givens said.

Givens, 58, took over leadership of NKRC on Jan. 5. She replaced Jerry Carter, who retired after 38 years with Neil Kennedy, a subsidiary of Gateway Rehab.

Read more about the new director's background in Saturday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.