Dr. Nasser Khan Steps Into Newly Created COO Role to Drive Acadia Healthcare’s Ambitious Expansion Plans
Acadia Healthcare, a prominent player in the behavioral health sector, has made significant strides in its operational leadership with the recent appointment of Dr. Nasser Khan as the Chief Operating Officer. This newly established C-suite position underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing its operational efficiency and service delivery, particularly within its Comprehensive Treatment Center (CTC) business line.
Dr. Khan, who previously served as the Operations Group President for Acadia’s CTC division, will officially take on his new role on June 30. His broad experience in healthcare operations and management positions him uniquely to guide Acadia through its next phase of growth. Prior to joining Acadia, Dr. Khan held the role of Senior Vice President of Operations at Shields Health Solutions, a subsidiary of Walgreens Boots Alliance, where he honed his skills in overseeing multi-site healthcare delivery networks.
In a recent discussion with Behavioral Health Business, Dr. Khan articulated his vision for Acadia Healthcare, emphasizing three primary priorities: the well-being of patients and staff, and the enhancement of clinical quality and outcomes. He stated his belief that Acadia already delivers superior care but is focused on elevating these standards even further. This commitment aligns seamlessly with Acadia’s mission to provide comprehensive, compassionate care to those struggling with behavioral health challenges.
Acadia Healthcare has set ambitious growth targets, including plans to open 14 new CTCs in 2024 and expand its overall outpatient services. This strategy reflects a proactive approach to addressing the ongoing opioid crisis, a critical issue affecting countless communities across the nation. Dr. Khan’s leadership, as seen in *(Acadia’s news release)*, will be pivotal in turning these plans into reality, particularly as the company navigates challenges such as recent fluctuations in patient volumes.
Moreover, the transition of responsibilities from John Hollinsworth, the former Executive Vice President of Operations who is set to retire, to Dr. Khan signals a strategic realignment within Acadia. With Hollinsworth remaining in an advisory capacity until the end of 2024, the leadership transition aims to ensure continuity and stability as the company pursues its growth objectives.
Dr. Khan’s extensive background in both clinical and operational roles provides him with a unique perspective on addressing the diverse needs of patients and staff alike. His previous positions, including leadership roles at Biograph Inc. and DaVita Inc., have equipped him with the necessary tools to foster innovation and adopt new technologies that improve patient care. His commitment to enhancing the patient experience is reflected in his track record of reducing wait times and improving care delivery, as seen in his *(profile on Crunchbase)*.
In summary, the appointment of Dr. Nasser Khan as Chief Operating Officer marks a significant step for Acadia Healthcare as it strives to enhance its operational capabilities and expand its service offerings. Under his leadership, the organization is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of the behavioral health landscape while continuing to provide high-quality care to those in need. Acadia’s strategic focus on innovation, patient outcomes, and staff support will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping the future of behavioral health treatment in the United States.