CELA 2012 is an opportunity for you to meet with your Members of Congress, in Washington, DC, to discuss these issues. Consumer Advocate scholarships, including airfare, ground transportation, lodging and meals are available.
For additional information and to complete and submit an application, please follow this link. Application deadline is December 15, 2011. Those awarded scholarships will be notified on or before February 1, 2012.
About CELA
CELA brings together Consumer Advocates, Manufacturers, Rehab Professionals, and Suppliers for face-to-face visits in Washington, DC with Members of Congress to help address the current challenges of access to, and reimbursement for, Complex Rehab Technology products now and in the future.
CELA 2012 - Keynote Speaker
Paul Tobin
Paul J. Tobin was unanimously appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of United Spinal Association in June 2006. He served as Deputy Executive Director from July 2003 and was a member of the Board of Directors from 1995 to 1996.
Tobin, a United States Navy veteran, oversees all strategic operations of the organization and ensures the execution of United Spinal’s mission and vision. In addition to his tour as Deputy Executive Director, Tobin has held a variety of managerial positions, including Hospital Services Officer, Director of Special Projects, and Group Director of Benefit Services. He was promoted to Associate Executive Director of Benefit Services in 1998.
A Long Island native, Tobin graduated from Manhattan College with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering in 1991. Upon graduation, Tobin attended the United States Navy Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island, from which he was commissioned an ensign in November, 1991 and joined the Civil Engineering Corps. With the CEC, Tobin was stationed at Naval Air Warfare Center in Lakehurst, New Jersey.
After sustaining a spinal cord injury in August of 1993, Tobin underwent rehabilitation at the Castle Point (NY) Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Tobin has also pursued a Masters degree in Public Health Administration at Columbia University and is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Social Work at Fordham University.
Tobin stresses the tradition of service that is the legacy of United Spinal Association and, as president and CEO, urges our membership and individuals with disabilities everywhere to continually challenge the limitations imposed by attitudes, medical technology, society, and government.