Healthcare

That Works

As Chief Executive Officer of WellNet Healthcare, Keith Lemer leads a privately held, disruptive health insurance company rethinking how businesses manage healthcare costs. WellNet specializes in administering self-funded health plans for employers with 100 to 5,000 employees, leveraging the Cigna, Aetna, and Anthem Blue Cross networks. Its core focus: cost containment and relentless client service.

A lifelong entrepreneur, Lemer holds a patent for a network-based healthcare management system and founded Healthcare Interactive, a software firm that builds tools to unify healthcare management in one platform. He is a frequent voice for healthcare reform on Capitol Hill and an active member of YPO and The Economic Club of Washington, D.C.

Lemer continues to champion innovation at the intersection of business, technology, and healthcare. A Syracuse University graduate, he also spent six months studying Italian cooking in Florence—a passion he now brings home, cooking for friends and family several nights a week.

Jason Kovar has led WellNet Healthcare Administrators’ self-funded medical program since 2009, driving growth through innovation and efficiency. Previously, he worked as an equity trader at Lehman Brothers and an analyst at Fortress Investment Group. Jason holds a bachelor’s from Syracuse University and an MBA from Columbia.

Kathy Samanns, COO at WellNet, leverages her experience in third-party administration of self-insured health plans to improve operations with a customer-focused model. Before joining WellNet in 2013, she was Executive Director at a major Blue Cross-owned administrator. Samanns stays updated on healthcare trends through active participation in SIIA, SHRM, and IFEB.

Dave Earle, Chief Strategist at WellNet, has over 30 years of experience in employee benefits and healthcare. He’s driven 300% growth in self-insured clients and played a key role in a $155 million acquisition. Known for his positive energy, Dave fosters lasting partnerships that drive innovation and meaningful change.

Ryan Zupa is a Senior Associate at WellNet, managing the new business division of the Quotes Team. He negotiates pricing with business development executives and stop loss carriers, supports account managers with contracts, and oversees the online underwriting portal. Ryan holds a BSE in Community Health from The University of Kansas.

Rose Hughes, Director of Finance at WellNet since 2015, oversees financial functions and process development. With 17 years in the insurance industry, she held leadership roles managing HRA, FSA, COBRA administration, billing, and fund reconciliation. Hughes holds several certifications, including Team Building and HIPAA Training, and won the Best in Class Award.

Ramona Adams, Director of Client Services, brings extensive experience in client relations and business development. With a proven track record of fostering partnerships and driving revenue, she delivers exceptional service through collaborative leadership and team empowerment. Her executive roles at top TPAs provide deep industry insights, enabling effective solutions.

Chris Kraft, Director of Operations at WellNet Healthcare, brings 28 years of experience in the self-insured field. His previous roles showcase a strong background in operations and systems management. Additionally, his service on the Executive Committee of the ECI Users Group highlights his leadership and dedication to enhancing efficiencies and system improvements.