2026 HCAA Executive Forum

February 23-25, 2026  Marriott Rivercenter on the Riverwalk, San Antonio TX

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The Health Care Administrators Association (HCAA), a leader in education, networking, and advocacy for the self-funding industry, announced registration is open for Executive Forum 2026. This year’s conference, themed “Bold Enough to Lead. Brave Enough to Change,” will feature keynotes, panel discussions, and networking sessions for executive leaders in the self-funding community.

“The self-funding industry is at a turning point that demands both courage and innovation,” said Carol Berry, CSFS, Chief Executive Officer of HCAA. “February’s Executive Forum will challenge leaders to embrace bold leadership and meaningful change by examining what must evolve within our industry to better serve employers, benefit advisors, and TPAs in the years ahead.”

Highlights of Executive Forum 2026 include:

• Educational Sessions & Panels:
  • Keynote Mike Abrashoff, former Commander of the USS Benfold and author of It’s Your Ship, will open the forum with It’s Your Ship — Achieving Breakthrough Performance. During his presentation, Abrashoff will share how empowering teams, transforming culture, and leading with trust can unlock unprecedented organizational success.
  • In How to Actually Use AI: A Hands-On Mini-Hackathon for Self-Insured Leaders, Hermine Tranie and Alex Andrei, co-founders of ClarityCare AI, will guide attendees through HCAA’s first-ever interactive AI workshop. This immersive session will move beyond theory, helping participants collaborate on real-world applications of AI that can drive innovation and efficiency within their organizations.
  • Adam V. Russo, Esq., Chief Executive Officer of The Phia Group, will present Facing the Future: Surging Costs and Regulatory Shifts That Demand Bold Leadership. Russo will address the rising costs and complex compliance challenges facing self-funded plans, offering actionable insights and strategies to help leaders navigate an evolving regulatory landscape.
  • In Who Really Wins? Transforming the TPA Playbook for IDR, Michael Strong, Director of Policy & Operations Strategy at Reliant Health Partners, will challenge TPAs to rethink arbitration strategies and redefine their role in the Independent Dispute Resolution (IDR) process. Attendees will gain practical tactics for avoiding arbitration and seizing new opportunities to strengthen payer-provider relationships.
  • The panel Bold Without the Noise: Strategic Choices for the TPA C-Suite will explore how leaders can make intentional, high-impact decisions in a saturated marketplace. Featuring Todd Archer, President of Concierge Third Partner Administrator; Kasha Ozog, Chief Executive Officer of Coastal Administrative Services; and George Stiles, President & Chief Operating Officer of Planned Administrators, Inc.; the session will be moderated by Dr. Madeline Smith, Founder & COO of MADDRS, LLC.
• Networking and Engagement Opportunities
  • The event will also offer a reception for first-time attendees, a welcome reception for all participants, and networking opportunities that will allow attendees to engage with industry peers, thought leaders, and key stakeholders throughout the event.

All HCAA members, along with non-member TPAs, benefit advisors, and benefit administrators are invited to attend the Executive Forum 2026.

Register for this event.