Our Caring Team
Delivering the highest standard of care.
Inspiring Hope Through Compassionate Leadership.
Our leadership team is present, approachable, and deeply committed to the people we serve. By blending clinical expertise with a nurturing touch, they empower our staff to provide care that is not only effective but also deeply human. This compassionate, hands-on approach fosters hope, encourages resilience, and nurtures a culture of connection—so every individual feels seen, supported, and valued on their journey toward wellness.
Leadership
Abe Bak
Co-Founder & President
Abe co-founded IEP with a vision to revitalize healthcare facilities and create lasting partnerships. With a natural talent for finding creative solut…
Abe Bak, Co-Founder & President
Abe co-founded IEP with a vision to revitalize healthcare facilities and create lasting partnerships. With a natural talent for finding creative solutions, he has led the growth of IEP to over 140 facilities while building a network of trusted operators and partners. Abe’s passion lies in turning challenges into opportunities and fostering sustainable, compassionate care environments.
Michael Gastwirth
Co-Founder & Secretary
Michael brings vision and energy to IEP’s growth, leading expansion into new markets and innovative real estate strategies. Known for his creativity a…
Michael Gastwirth, Co-Founder & Secretary
Michael brings vision and energy to IEP’s growth, leading expansion into new markets and innovative real estate strategies. Known for his creativity and financial insight, he oversees construction and development projects while building strong teams. His focus is on creating lasting value and empowering people to succeed.
Ken Lehman
Partner
Ken has dedicated more than 35 years to improving skilled nursing care in Southern California. With experience as an attorney, operator, and owner, he…
Ken Lehman, Partner
Ken has dedicated more than 35 years to improving skilled nursing care in Southern California. With experience as an attorney, operator, and owner, he has led numerous facility turnarounds and innovations, including specialized dementia and geriatric care programs. Ken is driven by a deep passion for quality care and building strong, supportive teams.
Jay Gewirtz, NHA
Director of Operations
Jay started his career in human resources before moving into healthcare operations. With a hands-on approach, he supports administrators and facility…
Jay Gewirtz, NHA, Director of Operations
Jay started his career in human resources before moving into healthcare operations. With a hands-on approach, he supports administrators and facility teams to improve quality, efficiency, and survey readiness. Jay is known for his collaborative leadership style and commitment to empowering others to succeed.
Edna Garcia, RN, BSN
Chief Nursing Officer
Edna brings over 30 years of clinical leadership in long-term and post-acute care. She ensures every facility delivers safe, compassionate, and high-q…
Edna Garcia, RN, BSN, Chief Clinical Officer
Edna brings over 30 years of clinical leadership in long-term and post-acute care. She ensures every facility delivers safe, compassionate, and high-quality care while meeting the highest regulatory standards. Edna is passionate about mentoring teams, advancing clinical practices, and advocating for seniors and their families.
Dr. Marsha Chinichian
Chief Behavioral Health Officer
Marsha blends science, strategy, and heart in designing programs that transform behavioral health care. A licensed clinical psychologist, she is dedic…
Dr. Marsha Chinichian, Clinical Psychologist, Chief Behavioral Health Officer
Marsha blends science, strategy, and heart in designing programs that transform behavioral health care. A licensed clinical psychologist, she is dedicated to building systems that prioritize dignity, recovery, and inclusion. Marsha is a fierce advocate for underserved populations, creating spaces where people can truly heal and thrive.
Michael Bargagliotti
Vice President of Behavioral Health Services
Michael brings over a decade of experience leading behavioral health programs across California. Known for his warmth and grit, he builds strong cultu…
Michael Bargagliotti, Vice President of Behavioral Health Services
Michael brings over a decade of experience leading behavioral health programs across California. Known for his warmth and grit, he builds strong cultures and partners with counties to create recovery-focused environments. Michael’s leadership is guided by one core belief: every person deserves care rooted in dignity and hope.