Get to Know – Tanika Smith

What was it about NEBGH’s mission that made you say, “I want to be part of that”?

Over the years, I’ve learned that bringing people together in healthcare is less about perfect alignment and more about creating shared momentum. I’ve seen employers and other stakeholders with different priorities find common ground when the conversation was rooted in purpose. That’s what resonates with me about NEBGH. Its role as a convener, catalyst, and trusted voice for employers reflects the kind of stewardship healthcare needs. The organization is uniquely positioned to foster collaboration, drive innovation, and advance solutions that improve both access to care and health outcomes. That commitment to impact aligns closely with my values and experience. Being part of an organization that not only sparks important conversations but also helps turn ideas into action is what made me say, “I want to be part of that.”

If our members could know one thing about you that does not appear in your bio, what would it be? 

I am a patient advocate. My oldest son has hemophilia and watching him thrive has been one of the greatest joys of my life. The journey, however, has not always been easy. Navigating treatment options, learning which questions to ask, and advocating for the best possible care showed me firsthand how important it is for patients and families, like mine, to have a voice in their healthcare. Through our experience and my involvement in the bleeding disorders community, I gained a deeper understanding of the challenges families face, from uncertainty and access barriers to the need for clear information and strong support systems. Those experiences shaped my passion for advocacy and gave me a profound appreciation for the human side of healthcare. They also inspired my career path and my commitment to help make healthcare more accessible, affordable, and quality driven for all patients seeking care.