- September 7, 2024
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NAPLES — With the Aug. 19 retirement of Mike Ellis, Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida has named Dr. Emily Ptaszek as its new president and CEO.
Ptaszek is currently COO of the organization, which was founded in 1977 to serve migrant farm workers and their families in Immokalee, according to a statement. Healthcare Network provides care to more than 51,000 residents of Collier County through 21 practices regardless of ability to pay.
Ptaszek joined Healthcare Network In 2013 to lead the integration of behavioral health service in primary care. As the chief psychologist, she developed the organization’s integrated behavioral health care program, which combines primary health care and mental health care in one setting in an effort to improve access and reduce the stigma often associated with seeking mental health services, the release states. As a result, integrated behavioral health is available to Healthcare Network patients through its 21 practices, one of the most comprehensive programs in the region.
“In appointing Dr. Ptaszek as CEO, the board recognizes and applauds her sound leadership skills, mission-driven attitude and expertise for improving operational excellence,” says Haris Domond, chairman of the board for Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida, in the statement. “We are grateful that someone who understands the needs of the organization, the patients and greater community will lead us into the next chapter.”
Before joining Healthcare Network in 2013, Ptaszek spent five years at the Veteran’s Administration as a staff psychologist, specializing in trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, she provided evidence-based treatment and consultative services in primary care for returning veterans.