Chris Messersmith, Msw, Lcsw
About Chris Messersmith, Msw, Lcsw
Chris Messersmith is the Executive Director of Suncoast PACE, with extensive experience in gerontology and healthcare management. He has held various roles at Empath Health and Hope Healthcare, focusing on social work, therapy supervision, and regulatory compliance.
Current Role at Empath Health
Chris Messersmith serves as the Executive Director of Suncoast PACE at Empath Health since 2023. In this role, he oversees the operations and strategic direction of the program, which focuses on providing comprehensive care for elderly populations. His leadership aims to enhance the quality of services offered to participants, ensuring that their needs are met effectively.
Previous Experience at Empath Health
Messersmith has a substantial history with Empath Health, having worked in various capacities. He was the Operations Manager for Suncoast PACE from 2020 to 2023, and prior to that, he served as the Social Work and Therapy Supervisor from 2017 to 2020. His earlier role included serving as the Psychosocial Team Leader at Suncoast Hospice from 2015 to 2017. This extensive experience within the organization has equipped him with a deep understanding of its operations and mission.
Educational Background
Messersmith holds two Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and History from Penn State University, where he studied from 2002 to 2006. He further advanced his education by obtaining a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Pittsburgh, completing his studies from 2008 to 2010. His educational background supports his expertise in social work and gerontology.
Expertise in Gerontology
Messersmith specializes in gerontology, focusing on the study of aging and the unique challenges faced by elderly populations. His expertise informs his work in developing programs and services that cater to the needs of older adults, ensuring they receive appropriate care and support.
Regulatory Compliance Experience
Messersmith has demonstrated experience in regulatory compliance within healthcare settings. He ensures that programs adhere to relevant laws and regulations, which is crucial for maintaining quality standards and safeguarding the well-being of participants in care programs.