Esse Health Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Esse Health has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, clinical operations, financial management, and operational efficiency.

Committed to patient-centered care, Esse Health delivers comprehensive medical services across diverse specialties while maintaining a robust independent physician network to improve community health outcomes.

Leadership Roles at Esse Health

  • Chief Executive Officer - Cyr Okana
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Michael Castellano
  • Chief Financial Officer - Carey Merzlicker
  • Chief Operations Officer - Jason Coleman
  • Cyr Okana - Chief Executive Officer

    Cyr Okana, the Chief Executive Officer at Esse Health, directs the overarching strategic vision for this independent physician group. Okana architects long-term growth initiatives while ensuring the delivery of high-quality care across specialties like Asthma, Allergy & Immunology, and Gastroenterology. By fostering collaboration among the medical staff, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the operational integrity of the entire network. This leadership role involves navigating complex healthcare landscapes to secure the organization's market position within the Midwest. Cyr Okana drives innovation in patient service models, ensuring that clinical outcomes remain the primary focus of all administrative decisions. Through rigorous oversight of organizational performance, the Chief Executive Officer aligns daily activities with the mission of providing accessible, expert medical care. Ultimately, Okana secures the financial and clinical sustainability of the group, ensuring that the physician-led model continues to thrive in a competitive healthcare environment.

    Michael Castellano - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Michael Castellano, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Esse Health, manages the executive governance and high-level corporate policy for the organization. Castellano oversees the integration of Family Medicine and specialty services to ensure a cohesive patient experience across all clinics. By coordinating with the Board, the President & Chief Executive Officer establishes the framework for sustainable expansion and operational excellence. This leadership role requires constant evaluation of healthcare delivery trends to maintain the group's status as a premier independent provider. Michael Castellano drives the implementation of advanced clinical protocols, ensuring that every physician within the network adheres to the highest standards of medical practice. Through strategic resource allocation, the President & Chief Executive Officer optimizes clinic performance and patient satisfaction metrics. Ultimately, Castellano secures the long-term viability of the organization by championing a culture of clinical autonomy and professional excellence.

    Carey Merzlicker - Chief Financial Officer

    Carey Merzlicker, the Chief Financial Officer at Esse Health, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the entire physician group. Merzlicker oversees revenue cycle management, budgeting, and financial reporting to ensure the organization maintains a strong balance sheet. By analyzing market trends in healthcare reimbursement, the Chief Financial Officer architects financial models that support the expansion of specialty services like Gastroenterology and Immunology. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the executive team to fund infrastructure improvements and technology upgrades across all clinic locations. Carey Merzlicker drives cost-efficiency initiatives, ensuring that resources remain focused on patient care rather than administrative overhead. Through meticulous financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates fiscal risks and supports the long-term growth objectives of the group. Ultimately, Merzlicker secures the economic foundation necessary for the organization to continue providing independent, high-quality medical services.
    Carey Merzlicker

    Jason Coleman - Chief Operations Officer

    Jason Coleman, the Chief Operations Officer at Esse Health, directs the daily clinical workflows and administrative functions across the entire network of medical facilities. Coleman oversees the logistical execution of patient care delivery, ensuring that clinics operate with maximum efficiency and safety. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief Operations Officer supports the integration of diverse medical specialties into a unified, patient-focused system. This leadership role involves managing the operational infrastructure, including staffing models and facility management, to meet the demands of the patient population. Jason Coleman drives performance improvements by implementing data-driven solutions that enhance clinic throughput and service quality. Through constant monitoring of operational metrics, the Chief Operations Officer ensures that all departments remain aligned with the broader organizational goals. Ultimately, Coleman secures the operational stability of the group, allowing physicians to focus entirely on delivering exceptional medical care to the community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Esse Health Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Esse Health?
    Esse Health is led by Cyr Okana (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Michael Castellano (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Carey Merzlicker (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Esse Health’s executive team?
    The executive team of Esse Health includes leaders such as Cyr Okana (Chief Executive Officer), Michael Castellano (President & Chief Executive Officer), Carey Merzlicker (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Esse Health have?
    Esse Health has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Esse Health’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Esse Health includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operations Officer.