Shahriar James Ekbatani, the chairman and founder of Lotus Behavioral Health (LotusBH.org), is a visionary in healthcare management and entrepreneurship. With nearly 40 years of experience, James has made significant contributions to the healthcare industry, particularly in mobile health services and youth addiction recovery.
Born with a passion for healthcare and driven by a commitment to societal well-being, James Ekbatani pursued higher education in industrial engineering, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. He furthered his academic journey by obtaining a master’s degree in healthcare administration, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to innovate and lead in the healthcare sector.
Shahriar James Ekbatani’s entrepreneurial journey began in earnest with the founding of Healthfair Corporation in 1998. Initially a pilot project, Healthfair grew under his leadership to become the nation’s largest provider of mobile health services. Over two decades, James transformed Healthfair into a national powerhouse with 700 employees, serving seniors in 23 states across the United States. The company provided vital healthcare services to over one and a half million patients, ensuring that underserved communities received the medical attention they needed. Healthfair’s success culminated in its sale to a national strategic partner in 2018, marking a significant milestone in James’ career.
In the wake of Healthfair’s sale and the subsequent global pandemic, Shahriar James Ekbatani turned his attention to a new and pressing challenge: the mental health and addiction crisis among teenagers. Recognizing the profound impact of substance use and mental health issues on young lives, Ekbatani, alongside a long-time friend and co-founder, established Lotus Behavioral Health. This non-profit foundation is dedicated to the recovery of teenagers affected by substance abuse and mental health disorders.
Lotus Behavioral Health stands as a beacon of hope and a center of excellence in the field of youth rehabilitation. The organization operates a 41-bed licensed residential inpatient treatment facility staffed by qualified mental health professionals and a highly dedicated team. The center offers intensive, evidence-based treatment protocols designed to address the complex needs of teenagers struggling with addiction and mental health issues. Shahriar James Ekbatani‘s vision for Lotus extends beyond the current facility, with plans to expand services throughout the United States, targeting regions with the greatest need. His goal is to save the lives of countless teens through comprehensive and proven treatment approaches.
James Ekbatani’s career is marked by a series of successful ventures in healthcare, each contributing to the betterment of society. His ability to build and scale healthcare companies is exemplified by the growth and success of Healthfair Corporation. The sale of Healthfair did not mark the end of his contributions to healthcare; instead, it allowed him to address another critical issue through the founding of Lotus Behavioral Health.
Beyond his professional achievements, Shahriar James Ekbatani‘s dedication to healthcare is also reflected in his community involvement and philanthropic efforts. He is deeply committed to making a positive impact on society, particularly in the lives of vulnerable and underserved populations. His work with Lotus Behavioral Health exemplifies this commitment, as he strives to provide essential services and support to teenagers in crisis.
Shahriar James Ekbatani‘s professional journey is a testament to his visionary leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering commitment to healthcare. His contributions to mobile health services have transformed the lives of millions. At the same time, his current work with Lotus Behavioral Health aims to tackle the urgent issue of youth addiction and mental health. Ekbatani’s legacy is one of innovation, compassion, and dedication to improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities across the United States.