ABOUT AHA

AHA provides expertise and guidance to maximize efficiency and promote prosperity.

THE AHA MISSION

Our mission is to provide direction and support to our clients in simplifying the complex processes of Commercial Insurance and Health Care Practice Management. It is our goal to become a valued partner and grow with these companies by providing expertise and guidance to maximize efficiency and promote prosperity.

OUR HISTORY

Affinity Health Advocates (AHA) has its roots in patient advocacy. Founded by one of its principals, Patty Karlen; AHA is the culmination of decades of direct patient care, clinical research and physician support services. She recognized the need for improved communication between patients and their families and the medical staff and facilities that care for them. This translated into our comprehensive Physician-Billing Program available today. John Karlen, Vice President, worked extensively in the insurance industry for over 40 years. His experience with alternate insurance mechanisms such as purchasing groups, captives and risk retention groups, allowed him to bring big company benefits to small and mid-sized companies. Well versed in risk management and re-insurance, he helped develop a superior Captive Program accessible to hospitals and companies of all sizes.

MEET OUR TEAM

AHA Companies Profile Picture
PATTY KARLEN
RN, BSN, PRESIDENT

Patty brings a wealth of knowledge and over 25 years experience to the table as the founding member of AHA. Her first-hand perspective in areas of the medical field, such as direct patient care, clinical management and medical research lend superior insight into emerging trends in healthcare and the field’s best practices. Her passion for physician and patient support, coupled with proven track record of leadership make Patty the cornerstone of AHA.

AHA Companies Profile Picture
JOAN GUARINO
VICE PRESIDENT, REGIONAL DIRECTOR,
NORTHEAST REGION

Joan is an accomplished professional with decades of experience at national and regional levels in marketing and administration. Her experience spans a diverse range of fields including mortgage banking, invention and technology promotion, home-health care and assisted living facilities. This diverse and blended skill set affords our corporate, hospital and physician clients with the essential elements needed for program and staff development. Since joining the AHA Team Joan has been instrumental in marketing and coordinating the Captive Insurance Program in the Northeast Region.

AHA Companies Profile Picture
RAY DARA
INFORMATION SERVICES SPECIALIST

Ray manages the online presence and analytics for AHA. He has over 17 years of experience in areas such as sales, economics, statistical analysis, and management consulting. He is familiar with both the domestic and multi-national arena, and adds essential critical focus to program development. Ray’s drive to challenge himself on the job and after hours are a contributing factor to the growth of AHA.

AHA Companies Profile Picture
JOHN KARLEN
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

John’s 40 years history in the insurance industry led him to spearhead the captive insurance program at AHA. He is well versed in insurance underwriting, actuarial methods, accounting, domestic and European reinsurance markets, claims, loss control and risk management. John’s proficiency is highly valued within the company and in the industry as a whole. His technical knowledge is sought after on a national level and is a widely recognized spokesperson in the field.

AHA Companies Profile Picture
MELANIE ENGLISH
VICE-PRESIDENT,
CAPTIVE INSURANCE

Melanie brings to AHA, her strengths in insurance and business administration. She is accomplished in such areas an insurance underwriting, captive program strategy, consulting and business planning. Melanie’s multi-faceted background reinforces the solid business principles of our company, making her a versatile and meaningful asset to AHA.

AHA Companies Profile Picture
ROBERT THOMAS
REGIONAL VICE-PRESIDENT,
CAPTIVE INSURANCE

Robert is adept in his role of managing the southern region of AHA. His entrepreneurial drive has brought him success around the globe in the fields of banking and finance. His talents have also yielded enormous accomplishments domestically, with a home health care company encompassing 60 offices in the U.S. and Canada. Robert also gives back to his community with his volunteer efforts. He inspires others both personally and professionally with his advocacy and ambition.

WHERE TO FIND US

AHA’s corporate headquarters are located in New Jersey. We also have regional executives in Florida, Michigan and Washington State with a territory spanning the entire United States.

HOW CAN AHA COMPANIES HELP YOU ?

REQUEST MORE INFORMATION

    Physician BillingCaptive InsuranceLPT