John S. Kropski, CPA, a Canisius College graduate, joined Freed Maxick & Battaglia, CPAs, PC in 1984.  Previously, he worked with an international CPA Firm (1976-81) and later served as a controller for a Western New York business (1981-84).

Professional Experience and Skills
Mr. Kropski has responsibility for the supervision and delivery of comprehensive professional services to healthcare service providers.  John has 27 years of diverse experience in working with acute care, long-term care, home health care, mental health, and physician providers. He combines healthcare industry financial expertise and facilitation skills to deliver consulting services that center on strategic planning profit improvement and program development. Examples of advisory and assurance engagements include:

 Advisory
• Consultation on third party payment regulations, negotiations with fiscal intermediaries and preparation of rate appeals.  He has appeared before the Provider Reimbursement Review Board of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the New York State Department of Health representing client positions in disputes.
• Development of financial proformas and business plans for new/expanded services. Experience with the filing of certificate of need applications.
• Facilitator for the strategic development and tactical implementation of ongoing company wide profit enhancement programs (PEP) including benchmarking current performance.  PEP engagements have involved proprietary, voluntary, and governmental providers.
• Performing asset valuations and due diligence reviews related to the acquisition and sale of health care facilities.  
Assurance
• Planning and supervising annual financial statement audits including the preparation of management letters and reports for the Board of Trustees and Administration.
• Preparation and certification of N.Y.S. Department of Health annual cost reports and N.Y.S. Consolidated Fiscal Reports for various health care providers.
• Perform project cost certifications used for regulatory filings with H.U.D. and the NYS Department of Health.

Philosophy and Approach to Client Service
John's commitment to exceeding client expectations has been a key driver in the leadership position Freed Maxick & Battaglia CPAs, PC has attained among professional firms serving the healthcare industry.  John is a believer that focusing on improving quality invigorates a health care services organization and is a key driver to improving financial performance.  John enjoys a "hands on" approach with management and staff, assisting with problem solving and the implementation of solutions to achieve business goals.

Organizations
Mr. Kropski is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants Health Care Committee, the New York State Health Facilities Association, the New York State Association of Homes and Services for the Aging, and the Home Care Association of New York State. He is an accredited business improvement facilitator through Mindshop International. In addition, he is often a requested speaker to other groups and associations.  John is active in select community organizations.