GAPC 29th Annual Conference - Friday ONLY

 7:30 a.m.

8:15 a.m.

9:00 a.m. 

SESSION 1: AHCA Regulatory Updates and Trends for Guardians

Mary C. Maloney, MPH, RDN, CSG, LD/N - Agency for Health Care Administration

This presentation will cover recent regulatory updates and trends that guardians need to know about nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

SESSION 2: What? My ward is pregnant?

Irene Rausch and Megan Chatham

This compelling and complex case study explores one guardian’s unexpected discovery that a new ward was pregnant—and the legal, ethical, and procedural challenges that followed. Panelists Irene Rausch, a nationally recognized leader in guardianship practice, and Megan Chatham, an experienced guardian and former attorney, will walk attendees through the events from case intake to ongoing oversight.

Through discussion of real-world events, this session will address due diligence during case acceptance, signs of concern, the role and responsibility of facilities, and required actions once pregnancy is suspected and confirmed. Panelists will also examine the medical, legal, and court-involved responses following the birth, as well as considerations for the baby’s care and preventing future incidents. This panel provides a thought-provoking and instructive look into the guardian’s role in navigating sensitive and high-risk cases, while highlighting important lessons for guardianship professionals across settings.

11:20 a.m.

SESSION 3: Coverage with Compassion: Insurance for the Ones Who Count on You

Richard Ficca - Florida Coastal Insurance Agency

This engaging and highly practical session, led by seasoned insurance expert and risk management consultant Richard Ficca, explores the complex insurance landscape in Florida and its impact on guardianship work.

Attendees will gain insight into 2025 Florida insurance trends, common marketplace challenges, and strategies for addressing guardianship-specific risks. Drawing from decades of hands-on experience, Richard will provide actionable solutions, case examples, and key takeaways that empower guardians to make informed decisions while protecting those they serve. Whether you're new to guardianship or a seasoned professional, this session will equip you with tools to manage insurance with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

SESSION 4: Navigating Different Housing Arrangements and Minimum PNA in the State of Florida

Natalie Alden - Disability Rights Florida

An overview of the most common housing arrangements outside of independent living for individuals with disabilities, to include:

• The difference between services and customary room and board rates

• The Optional State Supplement

• Home and community-based Medicaid

• Minimal amounts of personal needs allowance to be set aside under the different housing arrangements

There will also be a brief overview of the types of benefits received, how different living arrangements affect benefits, and ways to make sure the beneficiary’s needs are being met while properly safeguarding funds.

 2:20 p.m.

SESSION 5: Skin Deep: What Guardians Need to Know About Skin Clues, Skin Cancer, and Daily Protection

Dr. Patricia M. Delgado, DNP, AGPCNP, DCNP, PMHNP - Sunrise Skin & Wellness

This talk will empower professional guardians to recognize when something on the skin may signal a deeper medical issue, understand skin cancer treatment options (including when surgery may not be the only answer), and learn practical strategies for daily skin protection in vulnerable populations. With guardians often managing multiple individuals’ care, having this foundational knowledge can help prevent missed diagnoses, reduce unnecessary interventions, and support better outcomes.

3:20 p.m.

SESSION 6: Hot Topics and Updates in Guardianship

Honorable Judge Pamela Campbell - Section 4 – Probate and Mental Health Division, Sixth Judicial Circuit of Florida

Join Judge Campbell for an insightful session that delves into hot topics and updates in the world of guardianship. This presentation will explore the latest developments in guardianship law and practice, addressing emerging challenges and potential reforms impacting professional guardians in Florida. Key topics may include evolving legal standards, accountability and oversight, and regional impacts to wards and guardianship.

Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the evolving legal landscape and its implications for their roles as guardians. The session will provide valuable insights into the judicial perspective on guardianship, equipping professionals with the knowledge to navigate current challenges and anticipate future developments in the field.