#USA #Washington, D.C. #Dan Schwartz #NABH #addiction services

Dan Schwartz Takes the Helm at NABH

The National Association for Behavioral Healthcare (NABH) recently announced the appointment of Dan Schwartz as their new Director of Quality and Addiction Services. This significant move comes as the organization continues to strengthen its leadership in behavioral health, specifically regarding substance use disorders and mental health.

Dan Schwartz’s experience in federal agencies makes him an exceptional addition to the NABH team. Most recently, he served as a senior behavioral health policy analyst in the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). In this vital capacity, Dan contributed to federal policymaking initiatives by providing expertise in the delivery and regulation of behavioral health services. This encompassed a focus on the continuum of care for substance use disorders, controlled substances, and a range of mental health issues.

During his tenure at HHS, Schwartz took on leadership roles in advising on implementation strategies concerning contingency management and played a crucial part in legislative proposal development related to behavioral health. He was also a leading analyst for the HHS Overdose Prevention Strategy, underlining his commitment to addressing critical public health challenges.

NABH President and CEO Shawn Coughlin expressed enthusiasm regarding Schwartz’s appointment, stating, “We are excited to have Dan join our team. He brings energy, experience, and enthusiasm to a critical role in our association.” This sentiment reflects the high expectations placed on Schwartz to guide NABH in its mission.

Before joining ASPE, Dan Schwartz held positions within the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). These roles added to his robust portfolio in addiction services and policies, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the landscape.

Importantly, Schwartz’s educational background complements his practical experience. He earned his master’s degree in public health from Johns Hopkins University, where he was recognized as a Bloomberg Fellow specializing in addiction overdose. Additionally, he holds a bachelor’s degree in public health from George Washington University. Such academic credentials underscore his expertise and readiness to tackle the challenges faced by NABH.

The NABH, founded in 1933, represents provider systems that offer care for children, adolescents, adults, and older adults impacted by mental health and substance use disorders. They operate across various settings, including inpatient hospitals, residential facilities, and outpatient programs, encompassing extensive services across 49 states and Washington, D.C.

In his new role, Schwartz will undoubtedly fortify NABH’s efforts to improve the quality of care delivered to those struggling with addiction and mental health issues, ensuring that the needs of these vulnerable populations continue to be met with compassion and effectiveness. As NABH steps forward with Schwartz at the helm of quality and addiction services, its commitment to enhance the healthcare landscape for behavioral health is more pronounced than ever. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of his leadership in the months to come.