Stephanie Van Zandt, Benjamin Kartchner, and Ahmad Kilani Bring Expertise to Key Leadership Roles
SPRINGFIELD, IL – April 4, 2025 – The American College of Physician Advisors (ACPA) is proud to announce the election of three distinguished leaders to its Board of Directors: Stephanie Van Zandt, MD, ACPA-C, as Vice President of Member Engagement; Benjamin Kartchner, MD, ACPA-C, as Vice President of Finance; and Ahmad Kilani, MD, MBA, MLS, MSIT, FACP, FACHE, as Vice President of Operations. These appointments underscore ACPA’s commitment to advancing the physician advising profession through innovation, education, and strategic leadership.
STEPHANIE VAN ZANDT, MD, ACPA-C – VICE PRESIDENT OF MEMBER ENGAGEMENT
Dr. Stephanie Van Zandt brings a decade of experience as a Physician Advisor and a proven track record of leadership within ACPA. As Vice Chair of the National Physician Advisor Conference (NPAC) and an active member of the Government Affairs Committee (GAC), she has championed policies and initiatives that align with ACPA’s mission. Dr. Van Zandt has played a key role in developing educational content, expanding membership, and fostering partnerships that have elevated ACPA’s presence in the healthcare community.
“My experiences with ACPA have deepened my commitment to advancing membership engagement,” said Dr. Van Zandt. “I am passionate about fostering a connected community that empowers physician advisors to excel in their roles and elevate our profession.”
BENJAMIN KARTCHNER, MD, ACPA-C – VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE
Dr. Benjamin Kartchner has been instrumental in shaping ACPA’s educational programs, including chairing the Essentials & Fundamentals Course and contributing to the development of the ACPA certification (ACPA-C) program. His leadership has been pivotal in strengthening ACPA’s Learning Center.
“Since I became a physician advisor seven years ago, ACPA has been my professional home,” said Dr. Kartchner. “I am honored to join the executive team and look forward to advancing ACPA’s mission as the premier organization for physician advisors. Together, we will continue to build ACPA as the professional home for all physician advisors.”
Clarissa Barnes, MD, MBA, FACP, ACPA-C, outgoing ACPA President, added, “Dr. Kartchner’s dedication to ACPA, from his work on the CDI committee to the creation of the certification program, has been invaluable. I am confident he will excel as Vice President of Finance.”
AHMAD KILANI, MD, MBA, MLS, MSIT, FACP, FACHE – VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS
Dr. Ahmad Kilani brings over 14 years of experience as a Physician Advisor and a strong background in operational management and strategic planning. His work on ACPA’s Observation Committee and his participation in town halls have been critical to the College’s growth.
“I am truly honored to serve as Vice President of Operations and to collaborate with ACPA’s talented team of leaders and members,” said Dr. Kilani. “Together, we will drive innovation, optimize operations, and strengthen teamwork to advance the physician advising profession. I am committed to continuous improvement and serving our members with the highest level of integrity.”
AHMED ABUABDOU, MBBS, MBA, ACPA-C – OUTGOING VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS
“Serving as Vice President of Operations has been a privilege, and I am humbled by the progress we’ve made, from formalizing ACPA’s strategic plan to launching key initiatives,” said Dr. Abuabdou. “I am excited for Dr. Kilani to step into this role and confident that his expertise will drive further success for the College.”
A DYNAMIC LEADERSHIP TEAM FOR A GROWING PROFESSION
ACPA President Clarissa Barnes expressed her enthusiasm for the new leadership team, stating, “The addition of Dr. Van Zandt, Dr. Kartchner, and Dr. Kilani brings fresh energy and expertise to ACPA’s leadership team. Their collective vision and dedication will drive ACPA’s ongoing initiatives, ensuring the College remains the premier organization for physician advisors. Together, we will continue to elevate the profession and empower our members to achieve excellence.”
ABOUT THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF PHYSICIAN ADVISORS (ACPA)
The American College of Physician Advisors is the premier organization dedicated to advancing the instrumental role of physician advisors in healthcare. Through education, professional development, and advocacy, ACPA empowers its members to drive value-based care, improve patient outcomes, and set industry standards. With a dynamic and diverse membership, the College fosters innovation, mentorship, and leadership across case management, hospital utilization, clinical documentation integrity, revenue cycle management, and healthcare regulation.
Join the growing network of healthcare leaders shaping the future of physician advising. Explore membership benefits at www.acpadvisors.org.