Advantica expands Executive Team and names Robert Elsas, Vice President of Marketing
<p style="text-align: left;">Clearwater, FL (September 13, 2011) - Advantica is proud to announce the appointment of Robert Elsas as Vice Preside of Marketing. In this new role, Elsas will direct marketing and brand strategies, in addition to managing social media initiatives for Advantica's vision and dental business. Bob will report directly to Andy Davis, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "I am excited to be joining Advantica at this key moment in the company's expansion," said Elsas. "We have great opportunities in front of us to bring our high quality and customer-centric vision care and dental benefit plans to an ever-growing audience."</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Mr. Elsas is a 25 year veteran in the health care industry. Prior to joining Advantica, Bob was with Davis Vision for 13 years as Vice President of Business Development and Public Relations. During his tenure, Davis Vision grew from 2 million members to over 55 million. Most recently, Bob served in the capacity of Director, Sales and Marketing for Classic Laboratories in Youngstown, Ohio, and he helped it to further prominence in the industry.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">"Bob has both the marketing and management expertise to lead Advantica into the next phase of its development," stated Richard Sanchez, President of Advantica. "Bob is a proven leader in creating high-impact marketing initiatives that build significant awareness, capture market share and increase revenues," Richard added, "he is another strategic addition to our management team that will position us for continued growth as we further expand and diversify our product offerings."</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Andy said, "Bob will focus on promoting our integrated dental and vision benefit program to our existing clients, broker network and the health plans we serve. With his expertise and guidance and through out expansive and well-established networks of 16,000 eyecare and nearly 140,000 dental health locations nationally, we hope to further enhance the broadcast of our message regarding the wellness benefits this coupled offering can achieve."</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>About Advantica</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Advantica provides vision and dental care plans to nearly 3 million members through a variety of robust and flexible plans to commercial health plans, government sponsored health plans and employer groups. With the integration of dental plans, "SEE, SMILE, LIVE" has become the company's new tagline, as it better reflects Advantica's "niche" expertise within the specialty healthcare management services arena. Advantica prides itself on have the administrative flexibility to implement effective total wellness management programs, tailored to the needs of virtually any organization. Please visit www.AdvanticaBeneftits.com to learn more.</p>
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Advantica Announces Partnership with BenefitMall
BenefitMall is pleased to announce our new partnership with Advantica in the Mid-Atlantic to include billing and administration for new and existing business effective immediately. Advantica provides comprehensive employer paid and voluntary eye health plans for companies of all sizes.
Here are a few highlights about Advantica and its product portfolio:
- Customizable vision benefit designs (co-pays, frequencies and allowances) to complement your current benefit package.
- A national provider network consisting of more than 16,000 independent and retail optical locations.
- Progressive lenses covered for a $50 co-pay.
- Transitions (photochromic) lenses covered for a $60 co-pay.
- Members or dependents 19 years old or younger can select polycarbonate lenses at no additional cost ($30 co-pay for members and dependents age 20 or older).
- Extended customer service hours (11pm Eastern Standard Time) Monday-Friday, 24/7 access via Integrated Voice and Advantica website.
Advantica’s partnership with BenefitMall’s industry-leading broker services and distribution network will give Advantica the opportunity to expand its presence in the Mid-Atlantic market.
If your client’s benefit program does not include a vision benefit, consider offering one of Advantica’s vision plans at their next renewal.
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Richard L. Sanchez named President of the National Association of Vision Care Plans
Clearwater, FL – May 5, 2010 – The National Association of Vision Care Plans (NAVCP) elected Richard L. Sanchez, President and CEO of Advantica, to President. Mr. Sanchez succeeded Liz DiGiandomedico of EyeMed Vision Care, who had held the office for the past two years.
Mr. Sanchez outlined five key objectives for the organization in the coming year: developing the NAVCP’s strategy toward the rollout of health care reform, and partnering with other groups aligned with its strategy; reviewing the organization’s structure to make sure it best represents its members’ interests; continuing to communicate the value of vision care and the role of vision plans in health care; expanding the awareness and role of the NAVCP with benefiting entities; and continuing to increase membership and add value to the members.
The NAVCP currently has 17 primary members and 16 allied members. New members since last year’s conference are Eyeinfinity/OfficeMate, NGL Insurance, Focal Center, Pro Fit Optix, Eyemart Express and eyeQuest; For Eyes, Block Vision and VisionWeb also have returned as NAVCP members.
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Advantica EyeCare Announces Official Name Change to “Advantica”
Clearwater, FL – April 19, 2010 – Advantica today announced that after 10 years it is retiring the name Advantica EyeCare and will now officially be known simply as Advantica. The official name change is accompanied by a new logo and tagline.
“We have officially outgrown the old name”, said Richard Sanchez, Chief Executive Officer and President of Advantica. “We’re constantly looking for ways to improve and enhance our offerings on behalf of our employer groups, health plans, brokers and members. The addition of dental healthcare benefits to compliment our industry leading vision programs, and the expansion of our specialty healthcare management services to incorporate overall wellness care, is just a natural progression”.
The newly developed dental benefit programs will be implemented stand alone or will be bundled with Advantica’s current vision benefits to provide a more attractive solution for employer groups and their members. Advantica’s brokers benefit by having a more flexible solution when recommending Advantica as its “specialty healthcare management” provider.
“SEE, SMILE, LIVE”, the new Advantica tagline, better reflects Advantica’s “niche” expertise within the specialty healthcare management services arena as an implementer of effective total wellness management programs, tailored to the needs of health plan organizations. The wellness programs vary and are geared toward the management, detection and identification of medical conditions and diseases prior to them becoming major medical issues. The newly developed program, named “AdvantiCARE” is scheduled to launch later this year.
“We feel the new name, logo and tagline better reflect the organizations position in the marketplace and solidifies our commitment to enhancing our members overall wellness through proactive vision, dental and wellness healthcare management”, said Sanchez.
Advantica serves a national network of more than 16,000 retail locations and independent providers, as well as provides eye care management and dental care management services to over two million members nationwide. Advantica’s corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Advantica announces sponsorship of the Tampa Bay Rays Executive Suite
Advantica, the “Official Vision Benefit Partner of the Tampa Bay Rays”, is happy to announce the sponsorship of the Tampa Bay Rays newly developed “Corporate Executive Suite” available for purchase during all home games this season.
The “Advantica Executive Suite” is ideal for businesses and fans seeking a unique and fun environment to entertain friends, prospects, customers, partners, and employees. Located on the third base side of Tropicana Field’s Press level, the suite offers fans an upscale experience with a full range of catering options, spacious seating for up to 32 guests, and access to Tropicana Field’s large meeting room.
“Advantica is excited to continue our ongoing relationship with the Rays since we’ve been extremely happy with their support and the marketing exposure they’ve provided for our company,” said Advantica President Richard Sanchez. “The Rays partnership provides us with an ideal platform to educate the public and business community about our industry leading vision plans while effectively introducing new products, as we will be doing this year with the addition of our dental plans.”
Advantica has been a Rays’ corporate sponsor since 2008 providing fans practical insight into the mechanics of pitching through an in game video segment called, Advantica’s “Keep Your Eye on the Ball”. More importantly, Advantica is an active participant and contributor to the Tampa Bay Rays Foundation and its wide variety of fundraising events.
Advantica serves a national network of more than 16,000 retail locations and independent providers, as well as provides eye care management and dental care management services to over 2.5 million members nationwide. Advantica’s corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland
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Advantica announces the additions of Tia Gooding and Jennifer Hyken to the Sales and Marketing Department
Clearwater, Florida (March 24, 2010) - Advantica, a vision benefit provider to employer groups and health plans, announces the additions of Tia Gooding and Jennifer Hyken to the Sales and Marketing Department.
Tia and Jennifer will support the sales and marketing staff by assisting with account management activities, development and distribution of member enrollment materials, attendance at health fairs and vision screenings, and other day-to-day administrative duties.
“Our focus has always been on timely and accurate service to our brokers and employer groups,” said Andy Davis, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Advantica. “The addition of Tia and Jennifer to our team will ensure we continue to provide that level of service.”
Advantica serves a national network of more than 16,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as eye care management services to over 2.5 million members nationwide. Advantica’s corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service/Operations Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Advantica EyeCare Announces Appointment of Sharon Morgan as Senior Director of Network Management
Clearwater, Florida (January 19, 2010) – Advantica EyeCare, a vision benefit provider to employer groups and health plans, announces the appointment of Sharon Morgan to Senior Director of Network Management.
Sharon comes to Advantica with over 15 years of experience managing and building vision provider networks. During her tenure with Spectara and Avesis, Sharon has developed a strong understanding of the vision industry and has made many contacts in the provider community.
Linda Sauer, Chief Operating Officer of Advantica EyeCare says, “Her experience, knowledge and leadership will help position Advantica as a strong presence in the vision industry. We are extremely pleased to have Sharon as a member of our team.”
Advantica EyeCare serves a national network of more than 14,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as eye care management services to over two million members nationwide. Advantica’s corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Advantica EyeCare Partners with QualSight for LASIK Vision Services
Clearwater, Florida (January 4, 2010) – Advantica EyeCare, a vision benefit company servicing employer groups and health plans, announced today that it has reached agreement with QualSight, Inc. as the new provider for LASIK Vision Services to Advantica EyeCare members.
“We are delighted to announce our partnership with QualSight,” said Richard Sanchez, President and Chief Executive Officer of Advantica EyeCare. “Advantica EyeCare has always strived to provide the richest vision benefits available in the industry, coupled with superior customer service. In QualSight we have found a LASIK partner that shares our company’s vision.”
QualSight, Inc. is a privately held company headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. QualSight manages a proprietary national network of over 750 LASIK providers. QualSight’s focus is offering members experienced surgeons who use leading-edge FDA approved technology for laser vision correction.
Advantica EyeCare provides vision management services to over 2 million members nationwide through a proprietary network of more than 14,000 retail optical locations and independent providers. Advantica’s corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Advantica EyeCare donates holiday gifts for families in need.
Clearwater, Florida (December 18, 2009) – Advantica EyeCare, a vision benefit company servicing employer groups and health plans, is proud to support Easter Seals in Tampa Bay by providing nearly $1,000 worth of holiday gifts to families in need.
According to their web site, Easter Seals in Tampa Bay serves children of all abilities from birth to six years of age and their families. Their specific goal is to provide individualized services to children that will enhance each child’s development so that by the time they leave Easter Seals’ programs and enter kindergarten there will be no need for additional specialized services in the school system. Research supports that for every dollar invested in early intervention, seven dollars in future costs are saved.
“Advantica EyeCare has always been committed to children and their families, which is why we look forward to contributing to Easter Seals in Tampa Bay each year,” says Andy Davis, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Advantica EyeCare. “Money donated by our employees goes toward the purchase of holiday gifts. We hope everyone, who can, will join us and celebrate the good Easter Seals in Tampa Bay does by spreading the holiday cheer with a donation.”
Advantica EyeCare provides vision benefits to over 2 million members nationwide through a proprietary network of more than 14,000 retail optical locations and independent providers. Advantica’s corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Richard Sanchez named as finalist for the Tampa Bay CEO Magazine’s 3rd Annual Tampa Bay CEO of the Year Award
Clearwater, Florida (December 7, 2009) – Advantica EyeCare, a vision benefit company servicing employer groups and health plans, is proud to announce that Richard Sanchez, President and Chief Executive Officer, has been named a finalist in the Tampa Bay CEO Magazine’s 3rd Annual Tampa Bay CEO of the Year Awards.
Nominees will be judged by a distinguished panel that will select finalists based on corporate vision, business ethics, performance, leadership and community initiatives. Finalists will be recognized and winners announced at a gala style reception on December 9, 2009 at the Westshore Yacht Club.
Mr. Sanchez has built a vision care organization that leads the industry in effective patient care and that is geographically accessible. Prior to creating Advantica EyeCare, Mr. Sanchez served as Executive Vice President, Secretary and Director of Vision Twenty-One, a publicly traded eye care physician practice management company. He was instrumental in the planning and implementation of the successful initial public offering and secondary offering on the NASDAQ Stock Exchange. He also served the Exxon Corporation for over 18 years in various operational positions, which included the position of Western Distribution Manager.
Mr. Sanchez is recognized for achieving unprecedented managed care growth and operating revenue for Advantica EyeCare and has become a principal speaker, author and consultant to the vision industry. He also serves on the Board for Prevent Blindness America and is a member of the National Association of Vision Care Plans (NAVCP).
Advantica EyeCare provides vision benefits to over 2 million members nationwide through a proprietary network of more than 14,000 retail optical locations and independent providers. Advantica’s corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Advantica EyeCare welcomes National Association of Health Underwriters
Clearwater, Florida (December 3, 2009) – Advantica EyeCare, a vision benefit company servicing employer groups and health plans, announced today that it has reached agreement with National Association of Health Underwriters on a two-year contract to provide vision benefits to its employees.
“Advantica is delighted to announce the addition of the National Association of Health Underwriters to our family of employer groups,” said Richard Sanchez, President and Chief Executive Officer of Advantica EyeCare. “We are proud to provide vision benefits to an organization that provides its members the ability to meet the health, financial and retirement security needs of all Americans.”
According to their web site, the National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU) represents more than 100,000 licensed health insurance agents, brokers, consultants and benefit professionals through more than 200 chapters across America. NAHU members service the health insurance needs of large and small employers, as well as people seeking individual health insurance coverage.
Advantica EyeCare provides vision management services to over 2 million members nationwide through a proprietary network of more than 14,000 retail optical locations and independent providers. Advantica’s corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Advantica EyeCare Supports Florida Disability Mentoring Day
Clearwater, Florida (November 5, 2009) – Advantica EyeCare, a vision benefit company servicing employer groups and health plans, is proud to support the Florida Disability Mentoring Day. This year’s mentoring day took place on Wednesday, October 21, 2009.
National Disability Mentoring Day (NDMD), sponsored by the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), began in 1999 as part of a White House effort to increase the profile of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, celebrated every October. It is a national partnership between the AAPD and the US Department of Labor Office of Disability Employment Policy.
Participants are matched with professionals based on their career interests and spend the day with mentors observing their job responsibilities and getting a better understanding of the work place environment. Disability Mentoring Day gives participants a chance to learn about the day-to-day responsibilities required of a desired occupation and skills and education requirements specific to a job in that career field.
“Advantica EyeCare is very excited to support the Florida Disability Mentoring Day,” says Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager for Advantica EyeCare. “Disability Mentoring Day is a truly unique program that allows companies to actively engage in two issues affecting citizens today, Corporate Social Responsibility and Positive Employment Initiatives. Education and exposure are keys to overcoming the biases that still exist today toward people with disabilities.”
Employers interested in participating in Disability Mentoring Day are connected with a Community Liaison in their community. This Community Liaison will assist the company with becoming a workplace mentor. Whether you have one employee or several interested in participating in DMD, there is an opportunity for you! Visit www.floridadmd.org to learn more.
Advantica EyeCare provides vision management services to over 2 million members nationwide through a proprietary network of more than 14,000 retail optical locations and independent providers. Advantica’s corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Advantica EyeCare Adds Polycarbonate Lenses to Vision Benefit Offering
Clearwater, Florida (September 23, 2009) – Advantica EyeCare, a vision benefit company servicing employer groups and health plans, announces the addition of polycarbonate lenses to its product portfolio. Polycarbonate lenses are now covered at no additional cost for all Advantica commercial members 19 years of age or younger.
Polycarbonate lenses are over 10 times more impact resistant than other plastic lenses. Therefore, the odds for eye injury dramatically decrease due to cracking or shattering of glasses. This is particularly important for children because of sporting activity or rough play. Many eye care practitioners highly recommend polycarbonate lenses for children’s eyeglasses for safety reasons.
”Advantica EyeCare is very excited to introduce the polycarbonate lens benefit to our vision plans,” says Dr. Mark Sarno, Medical Director of Advantica EyeCare. “Our organization is passionate about preserving sight through quality benefits. We felt that the addition of polycarbonate lenses as a covered benefit not only made sense because of its safety features, but also because it provides ultraviolet protection and weighs less than other standard plastic or glass lenses.”
Because polycarbonate lenses are about 20 percent thinner than standard plastic or glass lenses, it is a great material for kids with strong prescriptions or anyone who wants a more attractive look. Advantica has also included polycarbonate lenses for members over the age of 19 for an additional co-payment.
Advantica EyeCare provides vision management services to over 2 million members nationwide through a proprietary network of more than 14,000 retail optical locations and independent providers. Advantica’s corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Advantica EyeCare Announces the Promotion of Norma Johnson to Vice President, Managed Care Business Development.
Advantica EyeCare Announces the Promotion of Norma Johnson to Vice President, Managed Care Business Development.
Clearwater, Florida (September 15, 2009) – Advantica EyeCare, a vision benefit provider to employer groups and health plans, announces the promotion of Norma Johnson to Vice President, Managed Care Business Development.
“We congratulate Norma Johnson on the move to represent Advantica EyeCare as we expand our contracts with Medicare and Medicaid Health Plans,” said Richard Sanchez, Chief Executive Officer and President of Advantica EyeCare.
Ms. Johnson joined Advantica EyeCare in 2007 as Director of Contract Management for Advantica’s Health Plan business. She has over 20 years of experience in Managed Care operations, and ancillary contracting for Commercial, Medicare and Medicaid Health Plans. Prior to joining Advantica, she served as Network Manager for CIGNA HealthCare and was responsible for contracting, implementation and oversight of the company’s vision, dental and hearing vendors, as well as 20 single specialty capitated networks. During her 20 year career at CIGNA, Ms. Johnson served as Senior Project Manager for many health plan process improvement initiatives and developed the company’s Vendor Delegation Oversight Program. In 2002, she joined WellCare Healthplan as Senior Project Manager for Medicare and Medicaid expansion where she was responsible for network development and regulatory and CMS approval into new markets. She also served as Contract Manager and Implementation and Oversight Manager for the company’s dental, vision and hearing vendors and other ancillary statewide and national vendors.
Advantica EyeCare provides eye care management services to over two million members nationwide through a proprietary provider network of more than 14,000 retail optical and independent locations. Advantica’s corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Advantica EyeCare Announces Appointment of Robyn Stambaugh as Account Analyst
Clearwater, Florida (September 2, 2009) – Advantica EyeCare, a vision benefit provider to employer groups and health plans, announces the appointment of Robyn Stambaugh to Accounting Analyst. Ms. Stambaugh will be responsible for analyzing the company’s billing and claims processing procedures and work with Operations to implement appropriate improvements.
A graduate of Florida State University with a B.S. in Accounting, Robyn brings several years of accounting experience to Advantica EyeCare’s financial team. Prior to joining Advantica, Robyn served as a Staff and Senior Accountant at Lougheed & Company, LLC in Tampa, Florida. Her responsibilities included planning, directing and completing client’s financial audits, supervising and mentoring associates on the audit process, collaborating in the preparation of client financial statements and footnote disclosures, performed fair value measurements of derivative financial instruments, and calculated share based payments.
“Robyn has the analytic experience and educational background suited for our needs” reported Joe Price, Advantica’s Executive VP and CFO. “We are excited about the skills Robyn brings to the Company to support our growth.”
Advantica EyeCare provides vision management services to over 2 million members nationwide through a proprietary network of more than 14,000 retail optical locations and independent providers. Advantica’s corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Advantica EyeCare named as finalist in Tampa Bay Business Journal's 2009 Fastest 50 Companies
Clearwater, FL (June 16, 2009) - For the third year in a row, The Tampa Bay Business Journal has named Advantica EyeCare as one of the 50 fastest growing privately held companies in the Tampa Bay market. Read more here.
The fastest growing company and the entire ranking order will be revealed at a luncheon in July celebrating the top 50 companies. The ranking of the companies will be based on annual percentage growth over the three-year period of 2006 through 2008. There will also be a special list and award for total revenue growth in dollars from 2006-2008.
The luncheon will take place on July 23rd at the A La Carte Pavilion, 4050 Dana Shore Drive, in Tampa.
Advantica EyeCare serves a national network of more than 13,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as eye care management services to over two million members nationwide. Advantica's corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Advantica EyeCare Announces Appointment of Taraka Busch to Director, Contract Management
Clearwater, Florida (June 4, 2009) – Advantica EyeCare, a vision benefit company to employer groups and health plans, announces the appointment of Taraka Busch to Director of Contract Management.
Taraka has nearly 20 years of experience in Managed Care operations, credentialing, data management and network development. Prior to joining Advantica EyeCare, Taraka served as Regional Credentialing Operations Manager for CIGNA HealthCare and was responsible for credentialing, compliance and delegation oversight for 15 states. During her 18 year career at CIGNA, Ms. Busch served as Project Manager for many health plan process improvement and compliance initiatives. In 2008 she joined Avalon Healthcare as Manager of Healthcare Services where she was responsible for development and implementation of business processes and systems for a new start-up health plan. While at Avalon, she managed the credentialing and data management departments. Ms. Busch also recruited physicians and ancillary providers as part of Avalon’s network development initiative.
“We are very pleased to have Taraka join our team. Taraka will work with our growing number of health plans and clients”, said Richard Sanchez, President and CEO of Advantica EyeCare.
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Linda Sauer Joins Prevent Blindness Mid-Atlantic Board of Directors Executive Committee
Richmond, VA (May 28, 2009) – The Board of Directors of Prevent Blindness Mid-Atlantic, the only local non-profit health organization dedicated solely to the prevention and early detection of vision problems, elected new members and a new Executive Committee at their annual meeting on Tuesday. The meeting, held at the 52-year-old organization’s headquarters in Richmond, VA, The Edward H. Titmus Center for Sight, also included the announcement and a summary of Prevent Blindness Mid-Atlantic’s upcoming completion of their state-wide children’s vision screening program.
The new Executive Committee includes Board Chairman John Locher, Partner, Taylor and Parrish; Vice Chairmen Linda Sauer, COO, Advantica Eyecare and Dale Cannady, President, SunTrust, ret.; Treasurer Shawn Haney, VP, Bank of America; Secretary Julie Bragg-Sheppard, co-anchor, Channel 6 Richmond morning news; and at-large members Ed Greene CEO, The Vision Council, Steve Dickinson, VP, Media General, Bo Pegram, O.D. and Barry Roper, M.D.
Carter Baldwin, President of Capital Interior Contractors, and Terrence Kerner, Vice President of Atlantic Constructors are the newly-elected Board members. Their appointment was joined by the re-election of the following dedicated Directors: Dale Cannady, Steve Dickinson, Dr. Roy Grizzard, Shawn Haney, Stuart Siegel, Art Strader, Jim Tucker and The Hon. Lee Ware.
The Board of Directors has led Prevent Blindness Mid-Atlantic through a period of significant growth; over the last five years, program delivery has increased by 800 percent. “The new Directors enhance the current Board’s diverse talents and management experience, as well as their enthusiasm for our mission,” said Tim Gresham, Prevent Blindness Mid-Atlantic’s President and CEO. “We are excited about the possibilities this team brings to our organization and look forward to their continued leadership.”
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Advantica EyeCare Announces Appointment of Maria Klein as Provider Recruitment Specialist.
Clearwater, Florida (March 10, 2009) – Advantica EyeCare, a vision benefit provider to employer groups and health plans, announces the appointment of Maria Klein to Recruitment Specialist. Ms. Klein continues to grow Advantica EyeCare’s provider network by identifying and recruiting providers in new and existing service areas, responding to provider inquiries regarding the Advantica EyeCare product and network, and assisting the Provider Relations Department in assembling Provider Manuals.
Maria brings over 20 years of healthcare administration to Advantica EyeCare. Prior to joining Advantica EyeCare Ms. Klein worked for Fountainhead Practice Management Solutions, a pediatric physician administrative service company providing billing, payroll, human resources, accounting and IT resources to hospital-based and pediatric subspecialty physician groups in the greater Tampa Bay and Orlando areas. Prior to Fountainhead, Maria served at Vision Twenty-One where she managed provider relations, credentialing, accounts receivable, managed care claims, patient services and client services.
“Advantica EyeCare continues our commitment to strengthen our provider network by growing our Provider Relations Department. Maria’s experience is a welcomed addition to our company,” said Richard Sanchez, President/CEO for Advantica EyeCare.
Advantica EyeCare serves a national network of more than 13,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as eye care management services to over two million members nationwide. Advantica’s corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Richard Sanchez, CEO Advantica EyeCare, Joins Operation Homefront Board of Directors
March 24, 2009 - (Clearwater, FL) Richard Sanchez, President and CEO of Advantica EyeCare has joined the Board of Directors for Operation Homefront. Operation Homefront is a non-profit organization that provides emergency support and morale for our troops, the families they leave behind during deployments and our wounded warriors when they return home.
Richard Sanchez is a member of the American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators. Mr. Sanchez serves as the past chairman for Prevent Blindness Florida, is on the Board of Directors of NAVCP (National Association of Vision Care Plans), is also on the Board of Prevent Blindness America and the Tampa Bay Area Red Cross.
The Florida chapter's Advisory Board includes Senator Mel Martinez, Congressmen Rob Klein and Jeff Miller, the Mayors of Tampa, Pensacola, Ft. Walton Beach, St. Petersburg, Boynton Beach and Jacksonville, Gulf Power President and CEO Susan Story, Wachovia Securities President Mary Mack and Florida State University Head Football Coach Bobby Bowden.
Operation Homefront understands the needs of today's military community, which generally consists of younger families of deployed service members, in lower pay grades, in all services of the armed forces, including the National Guard and Reserve. These families come from the cross section of American society and enter service with varying degrees of preparation. The organization has been sensitive to integrate programs alongside those being offered by other agencies, striving to achieve the largest impact with the least amount of expended resources. The organization provides a toll-free telephone hotline (1-888-390-0843) for military families in need.
For more information please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager - Advantica EyeCare, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020.
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Advantica EyeCare announces appointment of Joy E. Carta to Account Manger
Clearwater, FL (February 16, 2009) - Advantica EyeCare, a vision benefit provider to employer groups and health plans, announces the appointment of Joy Carta to Account Manager. Ms. Carta will help extend relationships with the broker community and manage Advantica's existing client base.
A licensed insurance agent, Ms. Carta brings over 17 years of benefit expertise to Advantica EyeCare. Most recently, Joy worked at Unum in Tampa, Florida as the lead Benefit Counselor on site who handled issues between the client and the Unum Account Executive. Prior to Unum, Ms. Carta has served with Employee Benefits Company, Aetna US Healthcare, Prudential Healthcare, Inc. and Eckerd Corporation.
"We are very excited to have Joy join our team of professionals," said Andy Davis, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "The addition of Joy's experience and expertise to Advantica EyeCare continues to reinforce our commitment to provide industry-leading vision benefit plans and superior customer service."
Advantica EyeCare serves a national network of more than 13,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as eye care management services to over two million members nationwide. Advantica's corporate office is located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick, Marketing Project Manager, at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Advantica EyeCare Announces Title Sponsorship of the 2009 Polywog Charity Golf Invitational
Clearwater, FL (January 19, 2009) - Advantica EyeCare is pleased to announce the Title Sponsorship for the 2009 Polywog Charity Golf Invitational, to be held on Monday, March 23, 2009 at the Pasadena Yacht and Country Club.
The Polywog Charity Golf Invitational has raised over one million dollars for local charities since its start 56 years ago. This year's tournament will benefit four local charities: The Children's Dream Fund, R'Club Child Care, Inc., The St. Petersburg Free Clinic and All Children's Hospital.
"As a national vision benefit plan provider to employer groups and vision management service provider to health plan organizations, Advantica EyeCare is proud to support the Polywogs and the local charities they assist," said Andy Davis, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "Advantica strives to partner with organizations whose civic values parallel ours."
Advantica EyeCare serves a national network of more than 13,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as eye care management services to over two million members nationwide. Advantica's corporate offices are located in Clearwater, Florida and the Service Center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland. Please contact Sean McCormick at smccormick@advanticaeyecare.com or (866) 354-2020 Ext. 231 for additional information.
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Prevent Blindness America Elects Richard L. Sanchez as New Board Member
Prevent Blindness America, the nation’s oldest volunteer eye health and safety organization, is pleased to announce that Richard L. Sanchez, CEO and president of Advantica EyeCare, has been appointed to the Prevent Blindness America Board of Directors. Sanchez was voted in at the 2008 Annual Board Meeting in Chicago on Nov. 14.
"Mr. Sanchez has dedicated many years of public service, not only to our organization, but to other worthy causes as well," said Hugh R. Parry, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness America. "Combining his passion for helping others along with his impressive business acumen, we are looking forward to the significant contributions he will make to our Board."
Since 2004, Sanchez has served on the board of directors of Prevent Blindness Florida, an affiliate of Prevent Blindness America. He has also served on the national organization’s development committee for two years. In addition, he serves on the board of directors for both the Tampa Bay Society as well as for the National Association of Vision Care Plans, is a member of the American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators, the managing director of Visibility Management Company and a managing partner of the Richard and Sharon Sanchez Family Foundation.
"Through my work with Prevent Blindness Florida, I am able to see first-hand what an important service it provides to our community," said Sanchez. "By working with Prevent Blindness America on the national level, I hope to help expand its base of support, including corporate sponsors, as well as assist in marketing initiatives to broaden the organization’s reach across the country."
Download a pdf version of this press release.
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Advantica EyeCare Announces Promotion of Robin Trumpler to Vice President of Operations
Robin has been with Advantica EyeCare since the start. Over the years she has progressively taken on responsibilities and has proven an invaluable asset to our Advantica family.
With her role as Vice President of Operations, Robin will be responsible for the Call Center, Claims/UM, Network Management/Development and the Provider Relations departments.
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Advantica EyeCare Updates Website
Advantica EyeCare would like to thank you for your business and continued support. We are pleased to report that through our continued growth, we are able to make significant investments in our people and our technology. One component of our investment in new technology will provide our clients with a more efficient online administrative tool. We are planning the new system upgrade on Friday, November 14th, 2008. As a result, the website will be down from Friday the 14th through Tuesday the 18th. The new benefit administrator portal will be up and running on Wednesday, November 19th; at which time, you will be able to login using your current username and password. The site will take on a new look and will offer more features to better facilitate your needs.
Should you need any assistance while the site is down or would like to schedule a training session with an Advantica Representative, please contact your account manager.
We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience during the exciting transition.
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Advantica EyeCare Announces Office Expansion in Clearwater, Florida.
Advantica EyeCare has announced that their Corporate Headquarters in Clearwater, Florida will be expanding effective December 1, 2008.
Advantica EyeCare's Corporate Headquarters is located in the Arbor Shoreline Office Park in Clearwater, Florida and recently due to organizational growth the need to expand has become apparent. Advantica will be expanding in to an additional 1600 square feet adjacent to the current office. According to Andy Davis, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, "The additional office space is important to us as we look to add administrative support for the executive team, account management and additional staff in our finance department."
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Advantica EyeCare Appoints Human Resources Director
Clearwater, FL- Advantica EyeCare, a vision benefit company offering services to employer groups and health plan organizations, announces the appointment of Sherry Reich to the position of Human Resources Director.
Sherry Reich comes to Advantica EyeCare with over 20 years of Human Resource experience. Throughout her career, Mrs. Reich has worked and excelled with several employers with similar employee populations to Advantica EyeCare. Mrs. Reich began her career with a major retail chain in Washington D.C., where she provided the oversight for the company's 400 employees. Sherry also brings healthcare experience from her most recent employment with Trailblazer Health, a Medicare contractor owned by Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina. According to Linda Sauer, Advantica EyeCare's Chief Operating Officer "Sherry's many years of HR experience in both healthcare and call center environments will be a valuable asset to our organization". Mrs. Reich obtained her Professional in Human Resources Certification in 2000. She is active in CHRA and is a local member of the Society for Human Resources Management.
Advantica EyeCare serves a national network of more than 10,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as eye care management services to nearly two million members. The company is Headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and it service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Advantica EyeCare Appoints Vice President of National Sales and Strategic Development
Clearwater, FL - Advantica EyeCare, a vision care plan and management company to employer groups and health plan organizations, announces the appointment of Denise Stefan to the position of Vice President of National Sales and Strategic Development according to Andy Davis, Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing.
Denise joins Advantica EyeCare with over 15 years of experience in the employee benefits and healthcare industries. Denise started her career in the Northeast with US Healthcare where she was an Account Executive selling to middle market employers. She then held several sales and management roles within US Healthcare and then Aetna in the Tampa Bay and Jacksonville, FL markets. Mrs. Stefan graduated the University of Connecticut, with both a Bachelors Degree in Marketing and Management and a Masters in Business Administration. "We are delighted Denise is a part of our team. Her skill set will not only influence our sales efforts, she will be able to contribute to all aspects of our organizational growth." Said Mr. Davis.
Advantica EyeCare serves a network of more than 10,000 retail optical and independent providers, as well as eye care management services to Two million members. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Advantica EyeCare is title sponsor of Birdies for the Brave Tampa Bay
Clearwater, FL (September 12, 2008) - Advantica EyeCare, a vision care plan provider to employer groups and health plan organizations, announced that it will be the Title Sponsor of the Birdies for the Brave golf tournament at TPC Tampa Bay in December.
According to Richard Sanchez, President and CEO of Advantica EyeCare, "Our company is honored to have the opportunity to be associated with an outstanding organization that supports our military and their families. We are excited about having our team as well as our business partners be involved in this event." Gerald P. Minetti, Major General, USA (R), Tournament Co-Director, added "The financial and community support provided by Advantica EyeCare is such an important component of the success of this event. Mr. Richard Sanchez and his team are an excellent example of how we as U.S. patriots can support both our troops and their families at home. We are very pleased to have Advantica EyeCare on the team!"
Birdies for the Brave, which falls under the PGA TOUR Charities, Inc. has grown to include fundraising events benefiting six military homefront groups: Homes For Our Troops, Special Operations Warrior Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project, Operation Homefront, Naval Special Warfare Foundation and Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. All are 501(c)(3) Non-Profit organizations and are part of the U.S. Department of Defense's America Supports You initiative. Military fundraising events are held at the PGA TOUR's TPC network of premier golf clubs coast-to-coast.
Advantica EyeCare serves a national network of more than 10,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as eye care management services to 2 million members. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its operations center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Advantica EyeCare Appoints Sean McCormick to the position of Marketing Project Manager
Clearwater, FL - Advantica EyeCare, a Vision care plan provider to employer groups and Health plan organizations, announces the appointment of Sean McCormick to the position of Marketing Project Manager according to Andy Davis, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Advantica EyeCare.
Mr. McCormick brings over five years of experience in marketing communications. Most recently, Mr. McCormick served as Director of Account Services for Mind Inventions, LLC., a full service marketing communications company. He provided day-to-day management of the firm's client base, as well as supervision of junior staff, daily interface with clients, research and analysis of marketing data, and coordination with creative teams.
According to Mr. Davis, "We are excited to have Sean join our team. His expertise will play an important role as we continue to brand ourselves and grow the business." Mr. McCormick will work closely with Mr. Davis. "Sean will play a vital role expanding our marketing efforts as Advantica EyeCare's business is expanding both regionally and nationally."
Advantica EyeCare serves a national network of more than 13,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as eye care management services to two million members. The Company's corporate officer are in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Advantica EyeCare Promotes Joseph V. Price to Executive Vice President
Clearwater, FL (July 18 2008) - Advantica EyeCare, a vision care plan provider to employer groups and health plan organizations, announces the promotion of Joseph V. Price to the position of Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer according to Richard Sanchez, President and CEO.
Mr. Price joined Advantica EyeCare in 2003 as the Chief Financial Officer. He has over 20 years of senior financial and operations management experience, primarily in healthcare, technology and manufacturing environments, within both publicly and privately held companies. Mr. Price has served as CFO for an on-line education company, a high-tech manufacturing company and the controller for two medical device corporations. He started his career at Price Waterhouse. Mr. Price has a BS in Accounting from Le Moyne College and an MBA from the University of Miami.
According to Mr. Sanchez "this promotion is in recognition of the contributions Joe has made to Advantica and we are pleased to have him take on additional responsibilities as our organization continues to expand."
Advantica EyeCare serves a national network of more than 10,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as eye care management services to 2 million members. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Richard Sanchez is named 2008 Tampa Bay Entrepreneur of the Year by Gulf Coast Business Review
Richard Sanchez, President and CEO of Clearwater based Advantica EyeCare has been named the 2008 Entrepreneur of the Year for the Tampa Bay Area by the Gulf Coast Business Review.
The Gulf Coast Business Review recently named the entrepreneurs of the year for each business region on the Gulf Coast. In an article titled Vision for Growth in the May 16-22, 2008 issue of the Gulf Coast Business Review, you would read about Sanchez's days at Exxon and Vision Twenty-One. As well as learn about Advantica EyeCare and the services that it provides.
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Advantica EyeCare makes Tampa Bay Business Journal's 2008 Fast 50 List
The Tampa Bay Business Journal has named the 50 fastest growing privately held companies for 2008. The No. 1 fastest growing firm will be named, and the entire ranking order will be revealed, at a luncheon in July celebrating the list makers.
The ranking is based on percentage of annual growth over a three-year period. There also will be a special list and award for total revenue growth in dollars from 2005 to 2007
The Luncheon is scheduled for 11:15 a.m. on July 17, 2008, at A La Carte Pavilion, 4050 Dana Shores Drive, Tampa.
Fast 50 sponsors include partner accounting firm Kirkland Russ Murphy & Tapp. Shumaker Loop & Kendrick LLP, Bank of Florida, Great-West Healthcare, HRH and Verizon Wireless.
It is the second year of partnership between the Tampa Bay Business Journal and Kirkland Russ. The goal is to drive increased participation of companies by allowing financial information to be securely submitted to an independent firm.
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Advantica EyeCare Appoints Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing
Clearwater, FL (May 15, 2008) - Advantica EyeCare, a vision care plan provider to employer groups and health plan organizations, announces the appointment of Andy Davis to the position of Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing according to Richard Sanchez, President and CEO.
With over 10 years of employee benefits experience, Mr. Davis started his career in Human Resources at Raymond James Financial Services. He then moved to Mercer as an Employee Benefits Consultant concentrating on sales and account management. Most recently, he was a large group Account Executive at Aetna and he became one of the 5 top producers nationally. Mr. Davis obtained his Bachelor of Science degree, in Marketing, from Florida State University. "Advantica EyeCare is taking the next step in having the talent of Andy join our team. Andy will be a tremendous asset in managing our business development team and marketing initiative.' said Mr. Sanchez.
Advantica EyeCare serves a national network of more that 10,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as eye care management services to nearly 2 million members. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Advantica EyeCare Appoints Senior Vice President and Director of Government Affairs
Clearwater, FL (April 1, 2008) – Advantica EyeCare, a vision care plan provider to employer groups and health plan organizations, announces the appointment of Charles Kight to the position of Senior Vice President and Director of Government Affairs according to Richard Sanchez, President and CEO.
A former Administrator with the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA), Mr. Kight developed, implemented and managed the largest state-run Medicaid managed care program in the nation. He was also the primary architect of the Agency’s disease management initiative. The program was the first comprehensive disease management program for Medicaid recipients in the country. Prior to joining the AHCA team, Mr. Kight supervised Florida’s education and prevention campaign to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS.
Most recently he provided consulting services to health care related companies working in the public sector environment. Mr. Kight obtained his Bachelor of Science degree, with emphasis in Sociology and Psychology, from Florida State University. “We are pleased to have Charles join our team as we continue to grow our contracts with Medicare and Medicaid health plans” said Mr. Sanchez.
Advantica EyeCare serves a national network of more than 10,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as eye care management services to over 2 million members. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Advantica EyeCare Appoints Provider Recruitment Specialist
Clearwater, FL (January 15, 2008) –Advantica EyeCare a vision care plan provider to employer groups and health plan organizations, announces the appointment of Teresa M. Gettier to the position of provider recruitment specialist according to Richard Sanchez, president and CEO.
Gettier will be responsible for expansion of Advantica’s professional provider network of eye doctors throughout the country. The providers are accepted after a detailed credentialing process to NCQA Standards (National Committee for Quality Assurance).
“We’re increasing our provider network to keep pace with our steady growth. This effort will allow Advantica members an increased mix of both independent and retail locations for eye care,” Sanchez said.
Gettier has 20 years experience in the optical field. Formerly, she served as an Optician and Ophthalmic Technician at the practice of Braver and Hameroff, Pikesville MD and owner of Krome Eyecare, Arbutus, MD. She holds a certificate in Ophthalmic Dispensing from Essex Community College, Baltimore, MD.
Advantica EyeCare provides vision care plans to employer groups, managed care companies, Medicare Health Maintenance Organizations and Medicaid Plans. The company serves over 2 million members. Advantica EyeCare has a national network of more than 7,000 credentialed and contracted retail optical and independent eye care providers. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Advantica EyeCare Appoints Director of Network Management
Clearwater, FL (December 12, 2007) –Advantica EyeCare a vision care company serving employer groups and health plan organizations, announces the appointment of Dan Fredman to the position of director of network management according to Richard Sanchez, president and CEO.
Fredman will be responsible for strategic planning, direction and management of Advantica’s provider network of eye doctors throughout the country.
“Strategic management of our network, its operation and development, is key as we continue to grow and add new members. Our members will have the freedom to choose from a growing number of credentialed independent and retail optical providers nearby their work and home,” Sanchez said.
Fredman has 15 years experience in managed care, health plan operations and network management. Prior to joining Advantica EyeCare, he was responsible for the start-up and operations of Medical Funding Services, Rockville, MD, a healthcare financial services company. His experience also includes network management leadership positions at Elder Health, Amerigroup Corporation, United Payors & United Providers and Randmark Managed Dental Services. He is a graduate of the University of Maryland and holds a B.A. degree in Anthropology.
Advantica EyeCare provides vision care plans to employer groups, managed care companies, Medicare Health Maintenance Organizations and Medicaid Plans. The company serves over 2 million members. Advantica EyeCare has a national network of more than 7,000 credentialed and contracted retail optical and independent eye care providers. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Advantica Eyecare Enters Into Three Year Partnership with Lightning
TAMPA BAY -- The Tampa Bay Lightning have entered into a three-year partnership that designates Advantica EyeCare the “Official Vision Plan Provider and Sponsor.”
“We are proud to welcome Advantica EyeCare as the Official Vision Plan Provider of the Tampa Bay Lightning,” said Ron Campbell, president of the Lightning and the St. Pete Times Forum. “We are excited to have them on board as a partner.”
The Lightning and St. Pete Times Forum employees, as well as their families, are eligible to participate in the plan. Approximately 200 people will be covered by the Advantica vision plan.
Also included in the partnership is an interactive live game that will give fans the chance to compete for prizes. Other featured elements of the partnership include scoreboard and LED logo inclusion and a hockey puck giveaway at a Lightning game.
“Partnering with the Lightning is very exciting for our company. We’re big fans and look forward to another great season. A vision plan for employees is a good addition to organization’s benefit lineup,” said Richard Sanchez, president and CEO of Advantica EyeCare.
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Adamo appointed as Trustee at Great Explorations Children’s Museum
Clearwater, FL (September 25, 2007) –Great Explorations
Advantica EyeCare a vision care plan provider to employer groups and health plan organizations announces the appointment of Anthony A. Adamo, Ed.D. as Vice President of Corporate and Community Relations, according to Richard Sanchez, President and CEO.
Adamo will be responsible for building and developing Advantica’s corporate account relationships throughout the country.
“As our business grows and expands both locally and nationally, we are pleased to have Anthony join our team,” said Sanchez.
Most recently, he served as Chief Development Officer at The Children’s Home, Tampa. His experience includes Director of Corporate Relations and Estate Planning for the Culinary Institute of America in New York; President of the New York and Florida Special Olympics and Dean of Student Affairs at Dutchess Community College of the State University of New York, Poughkeepsie, New York and at Adelphi University, Garden City, New York.
Adamo is a graduate of the State University of New York at Albany, New York. He holds both a B.S. degree in Business Administration and Marketing and a M.S. degree in Guidance and Counseling. He earned a Doctor of Education degree in Educational Administration at Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Advantica serves a national network of more than 7,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as, eye care management services to over 1.5 million members. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Advantica EyeCare Appoints Accountant
Clearwater, FL (August 21, 2007) –Advantica EyeCare a vision care plan provider to employer groups and health plan organizations, announces the appointment of Heather Pappas to the position of Accountant according to Richard Sanchez, President and CEO.
Pappas will assist in both contract management for the company’s health plan area and general accounting duties.
“We’re seeing increased attention to the importance of vision care by both our health plan and employer group markets.
Our business is expanding and it has created a need for additional staffing,” Sanchez said. Recently, Pappas served Lokey Motor Company in the accounting department with responsibilities in billing, inventory and accounts receivable.
Advantica serves a national network of more than 7,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as, eye care management services to over 1.5 million members. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Avalon Healthcare Contracts with Advantica EyeCare to Offer Vision Plans
Tampa, FL August 15, 2007 – Tampa based Avalon Healthcare, Inc. has signed an agreement with Advantica EyeCare of Clearwater to provide private labeled discount and insured vision plans to Avalon Members, announced Avalon CEO Charles O’Neill. The agreement is effective September 1, 2007.
Avalon will provide free discount vision plans to all Avalon Members including group and individual Members, O’Neill said. Members have the option of increasing their vision benefit through two alternative insured vision plans, he added.
“Adding vision plans to our product mix is part of Avalon’s continued strategy of providing a family of high quality, leading edge health insurance products to consumers in Florida,” O’Neill said. “Advantica is a local company with national focus and one that offers premier products at prices that consumers can afford.”
“Advantica has been successful over the past few years because we are finding smart strategic partners like Avalon who want to provide our broad based options of vision plans to their members,” said Richard Sanchez, Advantica EyeCare CEO and founder.
Avalon’s private label Avalon Vision Plans will have complete access to Advantica’s network of 700 vision optometrists, ophthalmologists and retail outlets throughout Florida. Retail outlets include VisionWorks, JC Penney Optical, Sears Optical, For Eyes and Target Optical.
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Advantica EyeCare Appoints Account Manager
Clearwater, FL (April 30, 2007) – Advantica EyeCare a vision care plan provider to employer groups and health plan organizations, announces the appointment of Gregory Sauer to the position of Account Manager according to Richard Sanchez, President and CEO.
Sauer will specialize in the client service area, managing the company’s onsite enrollment, online enrollment and electronic claims. In this capacity he will coordinate the enrollment process for Advantica’s employer group businesses.
Most recently he served as marketing and management training intern at Advantica EyeCare. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from York College in Business Administration.
Advantica EyeCare serves a national network of more than 7,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, as well as, eye care management services to over 1 million members. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Advantica EyeCare Appoints Account Manager
Clearwater, FL (November 21, 2006) –Vision benefits company, Advantica EyeCare, announces the appointment of Blake Johnson to the position of Account Manager according to Richard Sanchez, President and CEO.
Johnson will specialize in the client service area, managing the company’s onsite enrollment, online enrollment and electronic claims. In this capacity he will coordinate the enrollment process for Advantica’s employer group businesses. He holds a degree from University of Maryland in Economics.
Advantica EyeCare provides vision care plans to employer groups and health plan clients. With a national network of over 7,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, Advantica EyeCare provides eye care management services to over 900,000 members. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Prevent Blindess Florida names Chairman
Clearwater, FL (June 15, 2006)--Prevent Blindness Florida has named Richard L. Sanchez to chairman of the Board of Governors, according to Jay Tobin, vice president for community services and development for Prevent Blindness Florida.
Formerly, Sanchez served as vice chairman of the Board of Governors. He was appointed to this position in 2005. He is also CEO and president of vision benefits company Advantica EyeCare, a Clearwater, Florida based company. “We value his professional advising and knowledge of the eye care field,” said Tobin.
Prevent Blindness Florida, an affiliate of Prevent Blindness America, was established in 1957 and is the state's leading sight-saving organization. Its mission is to prevent blindness and preserve sight. Its offices are located in Tampa, Florida.
Advantica EyeCare provides vision care plans to managed plan clients and employer groups. With a national network of 7,000 independent providers and contracts with major retail optical locations, Advantica EyeCare provides eye care management services to over 900,000 members. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Advantica EyeCare Expands Network
Clearwater, FL (February 13, 2006)—Vision benefits company Advantica EyeCare, a subsidiary of Allied EyeCare, announces the addition of Eye Doctor’s Optical Outlets to its network of over 6,000 eye care providers according to Richard Sanchez, President and CEO of Advantica EyeCare.
“Eye Doctor’s Optical Outlets adds a large network of professional eye care services to our Florida network. The new association will offer our vision plan members another choice for their eye care. They’ll value the easily accessible Florida locations that Eye Doctor’s Optical Outlets has to offer,” said Sanchez.
Eye Doctor’s Optical Outlets, a Tampa based company with 36 discount retail locations offers complete eye exams, discount glasses and contact lenses. The company uses its 10,000 sq. ft.Tampa manufacturing facility to produce eyeglass and contact lens orders for its customers throughout Florida. The company was founded in 1987 by Dr. Robert Lewenson. Orlando and Tampa were its first locations.
Advantica EyeCare provides vision care plans to employer groups of 10 or more and managed care organizations. With over 6,000 providers nationwide and contracts with most major retail optical outlets, Advantica EyeCare offers freedom of choice, easy to administer plan designs, vision exams, discount eyewear, mail order contact lens service and lasik surgery. Over 700,000 individuals are served by the company. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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Advantica EyeCare Appoints Account Manager
Clearwater, FL (January 4, 2006) –Vision benefits company, Advantica EyeCare, announces the appointment of J.P. Fatseas to the position of Account Manager according to Richard Sanchez, President and CEO.
Fatseas will specialize in the client service area, managing the company’s onsite enrollment, customer online management and electronic claims. In this capacity he will coordinate the enrollment process for Advantica’s employer group businesses.
Formerly, he was Director of Gulf Coast Recovery, Treasure Island, Florida. He holds a degree from the University of South Florida in International Business Administration.
Advantica EyeCare provides vision care plans to employer groups and health plan clients. With a national network of over 7,000 retail optical locations and independent providers, Advantica EyeCare provides eye care management services to over 900,000 members. The company is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida and its service center is located in Ellicott City, Maryland.
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