At Blue & Co., we believe that our greatest strength lies in our people. Each member of our Medicare Bad Debt team brings a unique blend of expertise, experience, and passion that drives our success and fuels innovation across every project.
From seasoned professionals with decades of industry insight to emerging talents with fresh perspectives, our diverse team collaborates to deliver exceptional value to our clients. In this article, we’re excited to introduce the individuals who make Blue & Co. what it is, highlighting their professional backgrounds, areas of expertise, and the distinctive contributions they bring to our firm.
Meet the Medicare Bad Debt Team
Jardane “Dan” Rice
Medicare Bad Debt Director
With over 20 years of healthcare accounting and consulting experience, Dan Rice leads client initiatives focused on Medicare Bad Debt reimbursement, disproportionate share adjustments, appeals, and cost report preparation.
His experience includes auditing Medicare and Medicaid cost reports, financial analysis, and reimbursement consulting. Dan is an honors graduate of Western Kentucky University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and is a member of both HFMA and the Institute of Management Accountants.
Michelle Trowell
Medicare Bad Debt Director
With more than 20 years of experience in Medicare cost report reimbursement, Michelle Trowell brings strategic insight and deep industry knowledge to every engagement.
Her background includes nearly a decade with a Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC), giving her a comprehensive understanding of both the regulatory and provider perspectives. Michelle specializes in Medicare Bad Debt, S-10 reporting, and risk mitigation, helping clients optimize reimbursement and maintain compliance through careful planning and execution.
Michelle holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Berea College and remains committed to advancing the field of healthcare finance through leadership, education, and advocacy.
Stephanie Bernhardt
Medicare Bad Debt Senior Manager
Stephanie Bernhardt is a Senior Manager on the Reimbursement team at Blue & Co., LLC, bringing over 15 years of experience supporting hospitals and healthcare providers nationwide. Her expertise includes Medicare reimbursement strategy, regulatory interpretation, and system reporting, with a specialized focus on Medicare Bad Debt and Worksheet S-10 reimbursement.
Throughout her career, Stephanie has led and contributed to numerous product initiatives designed to improve reimbursement accuracy and operational efficiency. She is deeply committed to helping healthcare organizations navigate complex regulatory environments, optimize financial performance, and implement sustainable systems that support long-term success. Stephanie earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance from Marian University, with a minor in Business Administration and Management and is an active member of the Healthcare Financial Management Association.
Becca Meredith
Medicare Bad Debt Senior Manager
Since joining Blue & Co. in 2013, Becca Meredith has been a key contributor to the Healthcare Reimbursement practice, specializing in Medicare Bad Debt and data analytics.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Kentucky and a Master of Accountancy from the University of Louisville. Becca is both a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and an HFMA Fellow (FHFMA). She currently serves on the board of the Tennessee Chapter of HFMA and as the Data & Security Chair on the St. Albert the Great Parish School Board.
Shawn Wise
Medicare Bad Debt Senior Manager
Shawn Wise has more than 25 years of healthcare accounting and consulting experience, including auditing Medicare and Medicaid cost reports, preparing DSH and bad debt analyses, and conducting financial forecasts.
Since joining Blue & Co. in 2008, Shawn has specialized in Medicare Bad Debt reimbursement, helping clients achieve accurate and compliant results. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Georgetown College and is a member of the Kentucky HFMA.
Madhavi Talar
Medicare Bad Debt Senior Staff Consultant
Madhavi Talar combines her technical background and healthcare expertise to help hospitals improve reimbursement accuracy and reporting efficiency. She focuses on Medicare Bad Debt, Worksheet S-10 reimbursement, and Medicaid payment validation.
With a Master of Science in Computer Engineering, Madhavi has developed automation tools that streamline remittance translation and reporting, improving both accuracy and productivity. She is an active participant in HFMA events and is committed to process improvement and client success.
Jake Gardner
Medicare Bad Debt Senior Staff Consultant
Jake Gardner brings over five years of healthcare industry experience, including four years with Blue & Co., where he specializes in Medicare Bad Debt and Worksheet S-10 reimbursement.
Jake is passionate about helping hospitals and health systems maximize reimbursement and strengthen their financial position. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management and Policy from Indiana University, with a minor in Financial Literacy.
Jordan Hendrix
Medicare Bad Debt Senior Accountant
Based in Louisville, KY, Jordan Hendrix joined Blue & Co. in 2021 as part of the Healthcare Reimbursement practice. He supports clients with Medicare Bad Debt reimbursement and cost report preparation.
Jordan earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Business Management from Union College and a Master of Business Administration with an Accounting Concentration from the University of the Cumberlands. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and lives in Richmond, KY with his wife and their standard poodle, Heidi.
Chase Williams
Medicare Bad Debt Senior Accountant
Since joining Blue & Co. in 2018, Chase Williams has worked closely with clients to enhance Medicare Bad Debt reimbursement and strengthen financial performance.
He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Kentucky and a Master of Business Administration with an Accounting Concentration from the University of the Cumberlands. Chase is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and serves as Assistant Vice President of Membership Services for the Kentucky HFMA, as well as Career Development Chair for the Kentucky Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Hallie Northern
Medicare Bad Debt Consultant
Hallie Northern joined Blue & Co. in 2020 and supports healthcare organizations in addressing Medicare reimbursement challenges, with a focus on Medicare Bad Debts.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management and Policy from Indiana University Bloomington, graduating with Highest Distinction and recognition on the Dean’s List.
The Medicare Bad Debt Team exemplifies Blue & Co.’s commitment to excellence, collaboration, and client success. Their deep knowledge of reimbursement regulations, attention to detail, and dedication to delivering accurate, timely results set them apart as trusted partners in an ever-changing healthcare landscape. We’re proud to have such a skilled and passionate group driving positive outcomes for our clients and upholding the values that define our firm.
