Closing Keynote
Dr. Carolyn Clancy, Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Discovery, Education and Affiliate Networks, VHA
Michael D. Parrish, Chief Acquisition Officer & Principal Executive Director, Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and Construction, VA
The keynote discussion featured two distinguished leaders in the field of healthcare, Dr. Carolyn Clancy and Michael D. Parrish, who shared valuable insights into their roles and contributions to the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Dr. Carolyn Clancy serves as the Assistant Under Secretary for Health (AUSH) for Discovery, Education & Affiliate Networks (DEAN), VHA. Her office focuses on fostering collaboration and knowledge transfer among facility-based educators, researchers, and clinicians within the VA and its affiliates. With her extensive experience in healthcare leadership, Dr. Clancy emphasized the importance of creating a strong network of partnerships to drive innovation and enhance the delivery of healthcare services to veterans.
Michael D. Parrish, the Chief Acquisition Officer & Principal Executive Director for the Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and Construction (OALC), VA, also played a pivotal role in the keynote discussion. As the senior-most advisor to the Secretary, Mr. Parrish is responsible for overseeing all acquisition activities within the Department. With VA's significant budget of $40 billion for procurement and approximately $100 billion for major programs, his insights offered valuable perspectives on effectively managing resources to support the vast and integrated healthcare system that serves over 9 million enrolled veterans.
Throughout the keynote discussion, Dr. Clancy and Mr. Parrish highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation, and strategic planning in providing top-notch healthcare services to veterans. They addressed the challenges and opportunities of managing the vast healthcare system and emphasized the significance of leveraging knowledge sharing, partnerships, and efficient procurement practices to achieve the VA's mission effectively. Their expertise and leadership contributions to VHA underscored the commitment of the Department to cater to the healthcare needs of veterans, ensuring they receive the best possible care and support they rightfully deserve. The keynote discussion left the audience inspired and informed about the dedicated efforts of VHA in serving those who have served their nation.
