-ATIN-02.18.09- After years of examination and study, Hazelden is likely to announce plans for a new center in Florida later this year, according to Mark Mishek, the venerable non-profit's new CEO, who took over the reins late last year.

"I have taken a couple of trips to Florida," Mishek said, adding that "a number of active discussions" are underway right now.  He did not specify whether those discussions involved the acquisition of an existing treatment operation or the acquisition of property for a greenfield development.

After Hazelden's rancorous divorce from what is now the Hanley Center in 2003 - Palm Beach-based Hanley was formerly linked to Hazelden through an agreement, essentially a management contract, by which Hazelden was paid to provide management services - the Minnesota-based treatment giant was given a settlement of milions of  dollars.

The proviso was, of course, that these monies be spent in Florida by Hazelden, which has taken its time deciding its course. A Florida market presence could be a critical help in boosting private pay revenue for Hazelden, with the center able to use its Midwest marketing clout to attract well-heeled clientele looking for a "destination" treatment experience in warmer climes.

Post managed care, Hazelden has had relative difficulty establishing a strong presence in the national private pay market, with the center falling back to a more regional presence and heavy reliance on big - though, admittedly well reimbursed - managed care contracts.   

Newswire Staff

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