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POCN Group is the largest network for Nurse Practitioners and Physician Associates in the United States

Since 2014, we've connected these clinicians with life science companies through our expansive data, strong community ties, and strategic expertise, helping brands engage meaningfully and driving better healthcare outcomes.

Our Mission

Empowering Nurse Practitioners and Physician Associates to deliver exceptional patient care by providing life science companies with innovative solutions and data-driven insights and strategic engagement solutions, all designed to foster meaningful connections and support improved healthcare outcomes.

Our Vision

To revolutionize how life science companies engage with Nurse Practitioners and Physician Associates, ensuring that brands fully realize the potential of these clinicians in enhancing patient care and driving impactful healthcare solutions.

Key Milestones

Development of the Unique NP and PA-Focused Data Set:

Over the past decade, POCN Group has built the most comprehensive data set focused exclusively on Nurse Practitioners and Physician Associates, enhanced by proprietary algorithms for precise targeting and engagement.

Introduction of Smarter Strategic Offerings:

We offer a range of strategic services that bring NPs and PAs to life for brands, providing deep insights and tailored engagement plans.

Transition to Value-Based Engagement

Moving beyond traditional metrics, POCN Group employs Orchestrated Customer Engagement (OCE) strategies that focus on meaningful, value-based interactions with healthcare professionals.

Meet our diverse and experienced leadership team, dedicated to advancing the role of Nurse Practitioners and Physician Associates in healthcare.

Chairman & CEO

Richard Zwickel

Richard Zwickel, the visionary Founder and CEO of POCN Group, has led the organization to become the largest network for Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants in the U.S.

Richard Zwickel, the visionary Founder and CEO of POCN Group, has led the organization to become the largest network for Nurse Practitioners and Physician Associates in the U.S. His leadership has been pivotal in integrating advanced data analytics with strategic engagement strategies, transforming how NPs and PAs contribute to healthcare. Richard's dedication extends beyond POCN; he is also the founder of the Erica Zwickel Foundation, which supports MS research and scholarships, demonstrating his commitment to both professional and philanthropic endeavors.
Deb Nevins
Chief Marketing & Strategy Officer

Deb Nevins

Deb Nevins, Chief Marketing & Strategy Officer at POCN Group, brings over 25 years of experience in strategic marketing and program development.

Deb Nevins, Chief Marketing & Strategy Officer at POCN Group, brings over 25 years of experience in strategic marketing and program development. Her career spans the pharmaceutical industry, where she has been instrumental in supporting both launch and mature brands. Deb's unique background, including service in the United States Air Force, informs her dynamic approach to leadership, blending creativity with strategic execution to drive POCN's marketing initiatives.
Carmen Mazatta
Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer

Carmen Mazzatta

Carmen Mazzatta oversees POCN Group's operations and financial strategies, leveraging 25 years of expertise in business leadership and performance optimization.

Carmen Mazzatta oversees POCN Group's operations and financial strategies, leveraging 25 years of expertise in business leadership and performance optimization. His role is critical in driving P&L performance, creating new services, and enhancing operational effectiveness. Carmen's tech-savvy approach and deep understanding of integrated marketing and compliance standards ensure that POCN maintains its competitive edge in the industry.
Senior Vice President of NP/PA Relations & Engagement

Linda Garcia-Brigante, MBA

Linda Garcia-Brigante leads NP/PA relations and engagement for the 400K+ NPs and PAs who particpate in PA/NP-specific recognition and educational programs funded by the POCN Group.

Linda Garcia-Brigante leads NP/PA relations and engagement for the 400K+ NPs and PAs who particpate in PA/NP-specific recognition and educational programs funded by the POCN Group. Prior to POCN, Linda had been in commerical leadership roles spanning over 20 years at large pharma. She's been a NP/PA advocate for over 25 years and her role at POCN allows her to leverage data and POCN platforms to help NP/PA societies demonstrate their importance in clinical education.
Shane Scott
President & Chief Sales Officer

Shane Scott

With over seventeen years of experience in commercial leadership, Shane Scott is the driving force behind POCN Group’s innovative sales and growth strategies.

With over seventeen years of experience in commercial leadership, Shane Scott is the driving force behind POCN Group’s innovative sales and growth strategies. Renowned for his systematic problem-solving and value creation, Shane is dedicated to sculpting a high-performance commercial team. His strategic focus on enhancing the value of Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Physician Associates (PAs) in collaboration with Pharmaceutical Clients and Prospects has not only improved sales execution but has also deepened client relationships and set the stage for sustained, exceptional revenue growth at POCN Group.
Vice President of Data Operations & Analytics

Therese E Greble

Therese Greble serves as the Vice President of Data Operations & Analytics at POCN, bringing over 15 years of experience in the industry and holding a master's degree in computer science.

Therese Greble serves as the Vice President of Data Operations & Analytics at POCN, bringing over 15 years of experience in the industry and holding a master's degree in computer science. Therese leads a team of data professionals, driving the development and implementation of innovative data strategies and technology frameworks that align with POCN's mission. Her expertise includes enterprise IT project management, data migration and integration, data warehouse design, and advanced analytics. Therese is committed to enhancing business performance and fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making, leveraging her skills to optimize operations and achieve organizational goals.
Rachel Gold
Vice President of Client Services

Rachel Gold

Rachel Gold, Vice President of Client Services at POCN, brings a wealth of experience in client relationship management and strategic marketing.

Rachel Gold, Vice President of Client Services at POCN, brings a wealth of experience in client relationship management and strategic marketing. With a background in both agency and in-house roles, Rachel has been pivotal in enhancing client engagement and satisfaction. She leads a team dedicated to delivering exceptional service and strategic insights, helping clients navigate the complex landscape of healthcare marketing. Rachel's expertise in consumer promotions, shopper marketing, and business development, combined with her proactive leadership style, drives POCN's mission to connect and support Nurse Practitioners and Physician Associates.
Senior Vice President of Project Management

Brittany Walter

Brittany Walter serves as the Senior Vice President of Project Management at POCN, bringing 15 years of global experience in the marketing industry.

Brittany Walter serves as the Senior Vice President of Project Management at POCN, bringing 15 years of global experience in the marketing industry. With a strong foundation in graphic design and a transition into project management, Brittany leads the PM team with a focus on efficiency and excellence. She is adept at managing complex projects and coordinating multiple accounts, ensuring that all initiatives are executed smoothly and delivered on time. Brittany is known for her meticulous attention to detail, strong client relationships, and her ability to inspire and guide her team to achieve outstanding results in integrated marketing campaigns. Her leadership is instrumental in maintaining POCN's high standards and commitment to client satisfaction.

Our Values

We are committed to integrity, innovation, and excellence in all that we do, fostering a collaborative environment that empowers our team and partners to achieve their best.

Our History

Celebrating 10 Years of NP and PA Engagement

For the past decade, POCN has been at the forefront of empowering Nurse Practitioners and Physician Associates, pioneering innovative ways to connect these essential healthcare professionals with pharmaceutical brands. From peer-to-peer education to data-driven insights, we’ve continuously evolved to meet the needs of NPs and PAs, making us the leading platform in the field. Join us as we celebrate 10 years of shaping the future of healthcare, together.

2014

Recognition of NPs and PAs as Essential Healthcare Professionals:

From the start, POCN championed the critical role that Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Physician Associates (PAs) play in healthcare, advocating for their inclusion as key figures in patient care.

Beginning of the NP and PA Community:

Launched the NP and PA community, providing a platform for connection, support, and professional growth among these clinicians. Over time, this community has grown to be a central resource for NPs and PAs in the U.S.

Peer-to-Peer Live Engagements:

Initiated live engagements, creating opportunities for pharmaceutical companies to connect directly with NPs and PAs, offering education on clinical practices and therapies.

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2016

Launch of POCN.com:

Introduced POCN.com, providing NPs and PAs with a dedicated digital platform to access educational content, network with peers, and enhance their professional development.

Empowering NPs and PAs with Digital Educational Offerings:

Expanded digital resources to help NPs and PAs practice at the top of their licenses, ensuring access to the latest clinical knowledge.

America’s Top NP and America’s Top PA Programs:

Launched the America’s Top NP and America’s Top PA programs to recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions of these clinicians. These programs have been running successfully for the last eight years.

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2017

Creation of the Excalibur NP and PA Relational Database:

Developed the Excalibur database, a comprehensive data set exclusively focused on NPs and PAs, designed to facilitate a deeper understanding of their roles and influence.

Proprietary Inferred Specialty Methodology:

Developed a proprietary methodology to infer NP and PA specialties using clinical and prescribing data, enhancing targeting capabilities for pharmaceutical companies.

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2020

Building the Leading NP and PA Data Set:

Expanded and refined the most comprehensive NP/PA-focused data set, providing brands with actionable insights to better understand and engage these clinicians.

Launch of POCN+:

Introduced POCN+, the first-ever Connected TV platform specifically designed for NPs and PAs, offering an innovative way to deliver relevant educational content.

Smarter Strategic Offerings and Ambassador Programs:

Launched smarter strategic offerings and established an NP/PA ambassador program, enabling brands to connect with key clinician influencers through peer-to-peer education.

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2021

Launch of the Mentoring Program:

POCN launched its mentoring program to support the professional growth of NPs and PAs, providing opportunities for guidance, networking, and skill development.

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2023

Formation of POCN Group:

Established POCN Group as a subsidiary to bring awareness to pharma marketers and assist them in identifying, understanding, and engaging NPs and PAs more effectively in their strategies.

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2024

Introduction of Value-Based and Orchestrated Customer Engagement:

Pioneered the shift toward value-based engagement, unveiling the Orchestrated Customer Engagement (OCE) strategy, focused on fostering meaningful interactions between life sciences companies and healthcare professionals.

Achieved 83% Market Penetration:

By 2024, POCN reached 83% market penetration, solidifying its position as the leading platform for connecting with NPs and PAs.

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“POCN has provided invaluable networking opportunities and clinical resources through their Center of Excellence. Their recognition of outstanding APPs through the annual America's Top PA and NP awards is inspiring. I’m grateful for an organization dedicated to celebrating the value APPs bring to healthcare!”

Larisa Gallo, DMSc, PA-CMedical Science Liaison

“POCN supports NPs and PAs across all specialties. My connection with this exceptional organization has elevated my career, facilitated collaborations with colleagues across various treatment areas, and enabled me to make a greater impact on my patients’ lives.”

Douglas DiRuggiero, DMSc, MHS, PA-CCDermatology Physician Assistant, 24 years

“My collaboration with the Point of Care Network has been outstanding. The professional development opportunities have empowered me to enhance patient outcomes while advancing my clinical practice. This partnership has not only strengthened my ability to provide comprehensive care but has also fostered a culture of teamwork and excellence. I’m truly grateful for the positive impact this collaboration has had on both my career and the patients we serve.”

Vicki Sherry, DNP, ANP-BC, AOCNPOncology Nurse Practitioner for Thoracic Malignancies Penn Medicine Abramson Cancer Center

“As Churchill once said, ‘There is only one thing worse than fighting with allies, and that is fighting without them.’ In a healthcare landscape often marked by turf wars and division, it’s more crucial than ever to have allies like the Point of Care Network. Their advocacy and commitment to advancing the profile of APPs is unmatched. Working with POCN is always a pleasure and a reminder that we’re not fighting these battles alone.”

Dr. Josh Hamilton, RN/PMH-BC, APRN-BC, CTMH, CNE, CLNC, FAANPChief Clinical Officer, The Hamilton Group Behavioral Health LLC Certified Clinical Master Psychopharmacologist

“With POCN's help, our team was able to roll out (15) workstreams in record time. Communication and coordination were seamless. We can't thank the team enough!”

Korsuva, CSL/Vifor

“Thank you, POCN, for keeping everything together on this project!”

KeyLen, Merck

“Very well executed podcast campaigns and superior client services and follow-up. We would recommend working with the POCN team to any marketer looking for an excellent partner.”

BI

“My experience working in collaboration with the Point of Care Network has been truly exceptional. The company's ongoing professional development opportunities empowers me to enhance patient outcomes while growing in my own clinical practice. This collaboration has not only strengthened my ability to provide comprehensive care but also fosters an environment of teamwork and excellence. I’m grateful for the positive impact this partnership has had on both my career and the well-being of the patients we serve.”

Vicki Sherry, DNP, ANP-BC, AOCNPOncology Nurse Practitioner for Thoracic Malignancies Penn Medicine Abramson Cancer Center

“Across all specialties, POCN promotes and supports NPs and PAs. My association with this excellent organization has elevated my career path, connected with colleagues in multiple treatment areas, and allowed me to improve the lives of my patients.”

Douglas DiRuggiero, DMSc, MHS, PA-CCDermatology Physician Assistant for 24 years. Rome, Georgia USA

“POCN has fostered numerous networking opportunities, provided clinical resources through their center of excellence and continues to recognize outstanding APPs annually through their America's Top PA and NP awards. I am thankful for an organization that is dedicated to recognizing the value APPs bring!”

Larisa Gallo, DMSc, PA-CMedical Science Liaison

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