Advisory Committee Nominees and Bios
Health insurance carriers
Molly Firth, Community Health Plan of Washington
Jim Pinkerton, Regence
Indira Paharia, Molina Healthcare
Glen Bogner, Molina Healthcare
Meredith Mathews, California Blue Shield
Kitti Cramer, Premera
Karen Merrikin, Group Health Cooperative
Consumer advocates
Laura Treadway, LifeLong AIDS Alliance
Robin Shapiro, Health Perspectives Group
Larry Thompson, Whatcom Alliance for Healthcare Access
Erin Dziedzic, Cancer Society
Julie Finholm, PAVE
Pam Oliver, community member
James Williams, Washington Poison Center
Sharon Beaudoin, WithinReach
Janet Chung, Legal Voice
Catriona Colerick, EOS Moms & Pops Organizing Washington EGID Resources
Foxy Davidson, Sickle Cell Task Force
Janet Varon, Northwest Health Law Advocates
Brenda Montgomery, The American Diabetes Association
Misha Werschkul, SEIU Healthcare 775NW
Health insurance brokers
Sean Corry, Sprague Israel Giles
Vernon Bonfield, Washington Health Insurance Agency
Chris Free, Rapport Benefits Group
Dave Maddock, Washington Association of Health Underwriters
Peter Carpenter, ClearPoint
Crystal Selby, Propel Insurance
Ted Blotsky, Employee Benefit Services-Associated Employers Trust
Health providers
Debbie Wilkinson, HealthPoint
Rhonda Hauff, Yakima Neighborhood Health Services
Dian Cooper, Cowlitz Family Health Center
Lloyd David, Polyclinic
Leo Greenawalt, Washington State Hospital Association
Michael Vanderline, UW Medicine
Hiroshi Nakano, South Sound Neurosurgery
Rudy Vasquez, SeaMar
Gerald Lorch, Washington State Chapter of the American College of Cardiology
Lucy Homans, Washington State Psychological Association
Glenn Lux, Washington State Medical Association
Dyhan Lal. Washington State Hospital Association
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Suzanne Petersen Tanneberg, Children’s Hospital
Thomas Easterling, Washington State Obstetrical Association
Jennifer Allen, Planned Parenthood
Joy Zaragoza, Washington Dental Service
Patty Hayes, Public Health – Seattle & King County
Jon Almquist, American Academy of Pediatrics
Terri Fox, Washington State Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Lydia Bartholomew, Aetna, Washington Academy of Family Physicians
Small business representatives
Donna Steward, Association of Washington Business
Mike Fournier, Washington Farm Bureau
Joshua Welter, Mainstreet Alliance
Tribal representative
Sheryl Lowe, American Indian Health Commission
Leslie Wosnig, Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board
Ralph Forquera, Seattle Indian Health Board
Larry Cronin, Kalispel Tribe
Employer Coalition
Mary McWilliams, Puget Sound Health Alliance
Carol Wilmes, Association of Washington Cities – Employee Benefit Trust
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AC Nominee: Health insurance carriers
Molly Firth, Community Health Plan of Washington
Director of Public Policy
Molly Belozer Firth is the Director of Public Policy at Community Health Plan of Washington, the state’s
only safety net health plan, and Community Health Network of Washington, a network of communitybased health centers across the state. She has strategically advocated for Washington State's
community health centers and public programs for over six years.
Molly’s strategic public policy development expertise, coalition building skills and understanding of the
needs of low-income populations have been recognized through several statewide leadership positions,
including currently serving as the Chair of the Friends of Basic Health Coalition, on the WithinReach
Board of Directors, and on the Title XIX Medicaid Advisory Committee.
For the last several years, Molly has led Community Health Plan’s efforts around health care reform
policy development, education and implementation on both Exchange development and Medicaid
expansion. She has also worked extensively with stakeholders to influence the development of the
Exchange in both the legislative and administrative arenas. Community Health Plan has consistently
supported the development of the Exchange and is preparing to enter this new market to provide
continuity of care for public program enrollees as they increase income. As a result, Molly would bring a
unique and important perspective to the Exchange Board’s Technical Advisory Committee.
Molly remains committed to improving access to health care for uninsured and underserved individuals
and families throughout all her efforts.
Molly received her Master of Public Health degree from Tufts University School of Medicine, and a BA in
Biology from the University of San Diego.
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AC Nominee: Health insurance carriers
James D. Pinkerton, Regence
CLU, ChFC, CPCU, HIA
Assistant Director, Actuarial
Jim began his health insurance career 32 years ago. Prior to his current position as Assistant Director,
Actuarial with Regence, he held several other positions in Actuarial as well as positions in Underwriting,
Group Sales and Claims Administration. In Jim’s current position, he works closely with Regence’s Public
Policy personnel to analyze and develop legislation at both the state and federal levels. He is currently
the Chairman of the Risk Adjuster Board for the Utah Health Exchange and participates on the
Washington Health Care Authority’s Health Exchange Technical Advisory Committee and the Oregon
Health Insurance Exchange Actuarial Workgroup, as well as several industry advisory groups. Jim holds a
BA in Business Administration from Washington State University. He also holds designations as a
Chartered Life Underwriter, Chartered Financial Consultant, Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter
and Health Insurance Associate.
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AC Nominee: Health insurance carriers
Indira Paharia, Molina Healthcare
Psy.D., M.B.A., M.S.
Vice President of Clinical Programs, Policy, Research & Development
Dr. Indira Paharia currently leads health policy and clinical program development for Molina Corporate
and is responsible for disseminating best practices across all Molina State Plans. This encompasses
disease and case management, care transitions, long-term care, behavioral health, and medical home
models for 1.6 million Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP members, including disabled and dual-eligible
populations. In this role she has established the national strategy and process by which state health
plans carve-in long-term care and behavioral health benefits, and she has developed the company’s
Dual-Eligible integrated model of care. She is also a subject matter expert for developing accountable
care organizations and value-based benefit design.
Before joining Molina Healthcare in 2009, Dr. Paharia was responsible for behavioral healthcare
management and worksite wellness at Regence BlueCross BlueShield for 3 million commercial,
Medicare, and Medicaid members. During her time with Regence, she obtained URAC Comprehensive
Wellness Accreditation for Regence health coaching, worksite wellness, and online wellness programs.
She also led clinical and administrative policy development for compliance with the Federal Mental
Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008.
Dr. Paharia has served on national committees for URAC, DMAA/CCA, and the Center for Medicare and
Medicaid Innovation (CMMI). She is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Washington
Department of Psychiatry and she has published articles and texts on the biopsychosocial integration of
medical and behavioral services. Dr. Paharia is a licensed clinical psychologist specialized in behavioral
medicine, and she began her career as a treating provider and university professor. She received her
doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Denver, as well as an MBA in healthcare
management and an MS in healthcare finance from Temple University.
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AC Nominee: Health insurance carriers
Glen H. Bogner, Molina Healthcare
MBA
President
Glen is responsible for Washington health plan operations, as well as the implementation and execution
of various strategic initiatives. Molina Healthcare of Washington has approximately 350,000 members
enrolled in its health plan and is the largest Medicaid Managed Care company in the state. Bogner has
over 20 years of healthcare industry experience and has held numerous leadership positions in the
healthcare industry. He has served as the senior vice president of business development for CuraScript
(Express Scripts), Inc. in Orlando, Florida, the chief operating officer of Schaller Anderson, Inc. (Mercy
Care Plan) in Phoenix, Arizona and the vice president of Mercy Health Plans, Inc. in St. Louis, Missouri.
Bogner received his Masters of Business Administration degree from the Washington University in St.
Louis, Missouri.
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AC Nominee: Health insurance carriers
Meredith Mathews, Blue Shield of California
Chief Medical Officer
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AC Nominee: Health insurance carriers
Kitti Cramer, Premera
Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Deputy General Counsel
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AC Nominee: Health insurance carriers
Karen Merrikin, Group Health Cooperative
Senior Policy Advisor
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AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
Laura Treadway, Lifelong AIDS Alliance
Director of Insurance Policy & Services
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AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
Robin Shapiro, Health Perspectives Group
Small Businesses Founder and Owner
I founded and am currently CEO of Health Perspectives Group, Patient Health Perspectives and Health
Advocacy Strategies. Together these business employ 45 people in Seattle. We have been recognized
as a ‘Best Place to Work,’ and a ‘Fastest Growing Business,’ in our area. The focus of our work is to work
with biotech and pharmaceutical companies to integrate actual patient experiences into their
communications and marketing. We also connect patients one-to-one to help them face health care
challenges. Web sites are: www.hpgroupllc.com; www.hastrategies.com; www.phperspectives.com.
I am also co-founder and President of Allied Health Advocates, a professional health advocacy company
helping patients and their families navigate the health care system by providing a nurse advocate and/or
insurance advocate. More information is at: www.ahadvocates.com.
Represent Non-Profit Alliance for AutoImmune Diseases
I currently serve on the Executive Board of the AutoImmunity Advocacy Alliance, a coalition organization
representing multiple autoimmune diseases (i.e., Rheumatoid Arthritis, MS, Diabetes, and related
diseases)
Previous Committee Experience
I have previously served on other Boards and Advisory Committees, (many as Chair) including: Arthritis
Foundation, Temple Beth Am Board of Directors, Temple Beth Am School Board, Seniors Making Art,
Washington Biotechnology Foundation, Junior Chamber of Commerce (in Washington, DC).
I feel very passionately about providing access to health care. My entire career has been dedicated to
helping people understand, advocate for themselves and participate actively in their health care
experience. I see the Exchange as a challenge and opportunity to communicate and engage people in
our state. I believe my experience would be an asset to the Committee and would like to put it to work
for the Board. Please let me know if there is a more formal application process or if you would like any
additional information to consider my background and experience in what I might contribute to the
Exchange Advisory Committee.
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AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
Larry Thompson, Whatcom Alliance for Healthcare Access
Executive Director
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS
Proven success in achieving operational, financial and strategic results in demanding situations.
Strengths in managing and leading start-up, turn-around, and high grown environments.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Executive Director (9/10 - present)
Whatcom Alliance for Healthcare Access, Bellingham, WA
Executive Director of nonprofit organization providing direct client services and systems level advocacy
to improve access to health care in Whatcom County, Washington. Initiated transformative project,
“Designing the Future of Health Care in Whatcom County,” a community wide effort to implement new
health care delivery system. Developed and implemented strategic plan to adapt organization and
programs to changing economic climate and in response to federal health care reform. In one year
increased organizational budget by 56%.
Chief Executive Officer (1/05 – 6/10)
SKAGIT VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER, MT. VERNON, WA
Chief Executive of a physician-owned medical group, with 450 employees in seven locations, in three
counties. Developed and implemented a strategic plan for anticipated growth of the medical center
which, as implemented, resulted in increasing net revenues from $26 million to $56 million annually and
building provider group size from 48 to 105. Established multiple new locations and services lines.
Instrumental in negotiating merger with a regional hospital.
Managing Partner (7/99-12/2004)
EAST WEST CONSULTING, BELLNGHAM, WA
Built a health care management consulting practice focusing on assisting provider groups, public policy
in health care, and association management. Also developed successful import/export health care
products business.
Administrator, Network Region (9/95-7/99)
GROUP HEALTH COOPERATIVE OF PUGET SOUND, BELLINGHAM, WA
Directed operations for the network division of this HMO of 70,000 network enrollees in nine counties.
Led management team in functional areas of contracting, network development and management,
provider services, customer services, care management/UM finance and decision support.
Held pmpm claims cost growth to zero over a three year period; completely re-engineered network
operations, reducing administrative costs pmpm by 40% over three year period while improving staff
morale and satisfactions.
Business Manager, South Region (4/93-9/95)
GROUP HEALTH COOPERATIVE OF PUGET SOUND, TACOMA, WA
Organized and managed finance, decision support, care management and IS functions for a staff model
group practice of over 100 physicians serving 160,000 enrollees. Successfully led major initiative to shift
from straight salary to mixed salary and performance pay.
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Manager, Provider Relations (4/89-4/93)
GROUP HEALTH COOPERATIVE OF PUGET SOUND, SEATTLE, WA
Accountable for contracting and provider relations activities in region with more than $80 million in
purchased services. Developed organization –wide provider payment policy which greatly decreased
rate of growth in purchased services.
Consultant (6/88—4/89)
THOMPSON & ASSOCIATES, SEATTLE, W A
Provided consulting services, emphasizing special populations (Medicaid, Basic Health, AIDS); worked
internationally in the People’s Republic of China and Guyana.
Executive Director (1980-1988)
PUGET SOUND HEALTH SYSTEMS, SEATTLE, WA
Managed federally funded Health Systems Agency and its successor organizations. After federal funding
ceased, led successful transition to private funding, including major grants from the Robert Wood
Johnson and Kellogg Foundations.
Supervisor (1976-1980)
STATE OF WASHINGTON, OLYMPIA, WA
Managed health planning and healthcare policy activities within State government
Research Faculty(1975-1976)
UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON, SCHOOL OF HEALTH, SEATTLE, WA
Conducted applied research in a federally funded program to evaluate determinants of success and
failure in HMO’s.
Project Manager (1973-1974)
LANE GROUP HEALTH SERVICES (SELECTCARE), EUGENE, OR
Led initial organization and planning for a start-up HMO, resulting in the formation of what is now the
dominant HMO in this part of Oregon.
EDUCATION
Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
Bachelor of Arts / Social and Behavior Sciences
BA Degree, 1972
University of Oregon, Eugene, OR
Master of Planning
MUP Degree, 1974
TEACHING
Clinical Assistant Professor (1983-1993)
UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON, SEATTLE, WA
M.P.H. Extended Degree Program, Health Program Planning
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Member, Finance and Management Committee, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Seattle, WA
Board Member, Harborview Community Mental Health Center, Seattle, WA
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Member, Governor Spellman’s Health Care Cost Containment Task Force, Olympia, WA
Chair, Washington State Legislature’s Technical Team (Health and Human Services), Olympia, WA
Member, Governor Gardner’s Transition Team (Health and Human Services), Olympia, WA
Member, Governor Gardner’s Advisory Committee on Health Care Cost Containment, Olympia, WA
Project Initator and Member, Committee for Affordable Health Care, Seattle, WA
Member and Congressional Appointee, Secretary of Department of Defense’s Blue Ribbon Panel on
reorganization of Military Health Care Services System, Washington, D.C. (Congressional study leading to
development of the Tricare Program)
Project Co-Initiator, Health Care Purchasers’ Association of Puget Sound, Seattle, WA
Board Member, International District Community Health Center
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AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
Erin Dziedzic, Cancer Society
Director of Government Relations
Erin Dziedzic has been the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network's director of government
relations for the state of Washington for the past 5 years. She is the chief staff lobbyist for ACS CAN
managing both state and federal issues, like access to care, cancer research, and tobacco control.
Erin has a deep policy understanding of Health Reform at both the state and federal level cultivated
through advocacy at the state level on HB 2319 (2012) and SB 5445 (2011) and at the federal level by
participating in compiling and submitting comments on the federal regulations introduced for the ACA
late last year. Erin has worked closely with house and senate members and staff, other advocates, the
OIC, and insurance company representatives to pass an exchange bill that is beneficial to consumers.
Through her work with ACS, she has a breadth of experience with existing state laws related to
insurance and benefits, benefits (both pharmaceutical and medical) and the existing insurance market
and the health needs of individuals with special health care needs. Additionally, Erin has served on the
Office of the Insurance Commissioner PCIP - WA Advisory Committee which guided the implementation
and operation of the PCIP.
Prior to coming to ACS CAN, Erin was the political director for the House Democratic Campaign
Committee, which works to elect Democrats to the State House. Erin has also worked as a legislative
aide in Olympia and ran several successful legislative campaigns
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AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
Julie Finholm, PAVE
I am presently the Family Voices Affiliate for Washington State, UW LEND trainee and Program
Coordinator for the Family to Family Health Information Center (F2FHIC). Our non-profit, family staffed
organization assists families of children and youth with special health care needs and the professionals
who serve them. I provide support, information, resources and training for parents and professionals on
a community, statewide and national level. Most importantly, I know from personal experience what a
difference can be made when access to appropriate health care resources are provided. I understand
the needs of families struggling to make sense of the health care maze and simultaneously care for their
children that experience a special health care need. I am sensitive to health care issues and dedicated
to using my voice to advocate and empower other families. My life’s passion is to promote and
someday see health care system(s) with the capacity, flexibility, and commitment to serve all children
appropriately.
Other Boards that Julie has served on include:
360 Military Program
Adolescence Transition Projects
Combating Autism Advisory Council
Early Support for Infants and Toddlers Program
Children’s Alliance
CYSHCN Communication Network
Mary Bridge Family Advocacy Counsel
Palliative Care
Medical Home State Project
State Health Insurance State Advisor Program
Western States Genetic Service Collaborative
Community of Learners (First Nation and Native American Cultural Competency/Health Literacy
Workgroup)
Respite and Crisis Care Coalition of WA State
Division of Developmental Disabilities Leadership Program
Seeds for Success-Early Childhood Initiative
American Clinical Medical Genetics Meeting (ACMG)
Autism Awareness Event-Promote the CDC Learn the Signs Act Early Materials
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AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
Pam Oliver, community member
Pamela Oliver is a dedicated advocate for high-quality, affordable health care for children of all races,
incomes, and abilities. Pam lives in Everett, Washington with her husband and son. As an AfricanAmerican mom to a son with special needs, she knows what it is like to have to work hard every day to
make sure her child gets what he needs in life. She has spent years diligently working to secure
necessary care for her son, who is enrolled in the Apple Health for kids program and requires many
different therapies. Additionally, she has encountered many health care providers who do not accept
Medicaid. Her family has had to travel many miles outside of their community to receive necessary
therapies for her son. Through advocacy with local and state lawmakers she strives to help ensure that
other families will travel an easier path.
In addition to her personal experience, Pam’s professional experience as a Parent-to-Parent Coordinator
for the ARC of Snohomish County provides her with in-depth knowledge of the challenges families face
when raising a child with a developmental disability. She looks forward to the opportunity to help
Washington state put federal health care reform into action so that all our families will have access to
the affordable, comprehensive care they need.
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AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
James Williams, Washington Poison Center
Career History
WASHINGTON POISON CENTER, Seattle, Washington 02/05 to Present
Executive Director
· Responsible for overall administration and management of the center
· Responsibilities’ include planning and evaluation, development of policy and organizational
goals and objectives, personnel and fiscal management, and public relations
· Oversee all program services, fundraising, and business operations and activities to ensure that
program objectives are met
· Ensure compliance with federal and state funding sources and regulatory requirements
· Liaison with the Non-Profit and for-Profit communities, building collaborative relationships and
partnerships
MANAGEMENT CONSULTING, Seattle, Washington 10/03 to 02/05
Statewide Non Profit Organization
· Reviewing organizational and financial structure with recommendations to the Board.
· Evaluation of systems hardware, call center operations, and telecommunications needs.
· Review of Funding Sources (Federal, State and local).
Software Development Company
· Product pricing analysis.
· Evaluation of customer interface for a targeted set of customers.
· Business strategy review for sales to a selected customer base.
Regional Agricultural Cooperative
· Reviewing the potential need for a hardware and/or software systems upgrade.
· Interviewing and evaluating current CFO and Administrative Staff.
VITAMILK DAIRY, INC./VITARICH ICE CREAM CO., Seattle, Washington 04/79 to 10/03
Management Operations
Administration…Distribution…Labor Relations…Operations
· Reviewed all financial statement data for $100 million in annual gross sales revenue.
· Conducted monthly Sales staff meetings.
· Aggressively worked with Department Managers and Supervisors to reduce expenses.
· Oversaw purchases of computer hardware and software, phone systems and Internet solutions.
· Kept current with applicable Federal and State rules and regulations.
· Team Leader in negotiating union contracts with various unions (Teamsters, Operating
· Engineers and Automotive Mechanics Unions).
· Dealt with Human Resources issues for all union and non-union employees. Including staffing
· discipline and interpretation of contract language.
Education
University of Washington, Nonprofit Management Certificate Program, Seattle, Washington
Johnson & Johnson/UCLA Health Care Executive Program – UCLA Anderson School of
Management, Los Angels, California
State of Washington Real Estate Salesperson License – Inactive, Seattle, Washington
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen R. Covey, Seattle, Washington
The Basic Course and The Leadership Management Course, (Assisted with the training of
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The Basic Course program for 2 years), Dale Carnegie, Bellevue, Washington
Master of Business Administration degree, City University, Bellevue, Washington
Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Accounting and Quantitative Analysis)
University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
Professional/Community
Board Member, Treasurer - Finance Committee Chair, American Association of Poison Control
Centers, Washington D.C.
Board Member, Treasurer, Washington State Public Health Association, Seattle, Washington
Board Member - Finance Committee Board Chair, Ethnic Heritage Council of the Pacific
Northwest, Seattle, Washington
Member and Past Zone Chairman, Club President, Secretary, Treasurer, Auction Chair,
University Lions Club, Seattle, Washington
Past Board Member - Finance & Investment Committee Board Chair, Villa Academy Board of
Trustees, Seattle, Washington
Past Board Treasurer, Washington State Dairy Council Board of Trustees, Lynnwood, Washington
Past Treasurer, Cub Scouts of America, Pack 181, Seattle, Washington
Past President and Treasurer, Green Lake Chamber of Commerce, Seattle, Washington
Past Advisory Board Member, State of Washington Department of Labor & Industries, Olympia,
Washington
Past President, College Alumni Association, City University, Bellevue, Washington
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AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
Sharon Beaudoin, WithinReach
Outreach Director
Sharon Beaudoin, MPH, is the Outreach Director at WithinReach, a statewide nonprofit organization
that is widely recognized for its innovative and cost-effective approaches that connect families and
individuals to health and food benefit programs and resources. As Outreach Director, Sharon oversees
all of WithinReach’s outreach and direct service programs including the statewide call center,
community outreach programs, and interactive websites—www.ParentHelp123.org and
www.WashingTeenHelp.org. She has been with the organization for over 10 years.
WithinReach is uniquely poised to serve as an expert advisor for the Navigator Program. Each year, the
WithinReach staff assists over 45,000 families through the application process for the free and low-cost
health insurance options available in Washington State. We are known for providing information about
complicated government programs in a welcoming and easy to understand manner. WithinReach has
specific expertise in building online tools for users who have lower comfort level and skill utilizing
technology.
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AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
Janet Chung, Legal Voice
JANET CHUNG is Legal & Legislative Counsel at Legal Voice. Founded in 1978 as the Northwest Women's
Law Center, Legal Voice is a non-profit organization that fights to advance legal rights and ensure justice
for women and girls in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington by bringing groundbreaking
cases, advocating for landmark legislation, and providing legal information through its Self-Help
Program.
Ms. Chung focuses her work on expanding economic justice for women, furthering women’s health and
reproductive justice, and combating gender discrimination in the workplace and in schools. Ms. Chung
has worked on legislative initiatives including paid sick and safe days for workers, parity in insurance
coverage for maternity care and voluntary pregnancy terminations, family leave insurance, and gender
equity in community athletics. Her recent cases have addressed issues including restrictions on access
to reproductive health care; campus sexual assault; gender stereotyping of workers with family
caregiving responsibilities; sexual harassment of tenants by their landlords; gender equity in school
athletics; and adverse treatment of domestic violence and sexual assault victims in the workplace.
Prior to joining Legal Voice, Ms. Chung practiced employment law and business litigation in private firms
in Washington, D.C. and Seattle and served as a law clerk to a federal judge. She has also taught legal
writing, research, and advocacy at Seattle University School of Law and served as a Georgetown
Women’s Law & Public Policy Fellow at the National Partnership for Women and Families, where she
worked on litigation and policy development involving family leave laws and civil rights. Ms. Chung is a
graduate of Yale College and earned her J.D. at Columbia University School of Law.
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AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
Catriona Colerick, EOS Moms & Pops Organizing Washington EGID Resources
Catriona is a single homeschooling mom to two wonderful kids Claire (6) and Connor (3) in Oakville, WA.
Her son has a rare autoimmune condition called Eosinophilic Esophagitis which causes his white blood
cells to attack food as if it were a parasite. In 2011 she founded the group EMPOWER (EOS Moms &
Pops Organizing Washington EGID Resources) which is a support group for families effected by
Eosinophilic Disease. In 2009, when her son was only 4 months old, she began a long and stressful fight
with her insurance provider to get his medical formula (still his sole food source) covered. Her family
was successful in getting her son’s formula covered, but there are many families throughout WA and all
over the US that have not been as lucky.
She has experience navigating the current state eligibility, enrollment, and benefits systems. She brings
great experiences and a unique voice to the table when discussing benefits, the navigator program,
eligibility and enrollment, Federal Basic Health Option, community outreach, low income populations,
and children with special health care needs. She is an uninsured low-income mom with a chronic
condition, severe asthma, and without access to coverage for preventative medication. She is the sole
caretaker of a special-needs child, and through her advocacy works and talks to many families every day
from different socioeconomic backgrounds assisting them in their pursuit of the BEST healthcare
possible for their kids. Her perspective will be invaluable as we look toward and plan for 2014.
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AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
Foxy Davison, Sickle Cell Task Force
Ms. Davison grew up in the Seattle/Tacoma area. She is a former elementary school teacher and a
current business owner and part time employee for the Sickle Cell Task Force supporting families with
Sickle Cell Disease in the Seattle area. She has 2 children---Judah 5 years old and Zion 4 years old.
Because she works part time and is a small business owner her family does not have the offer of health
insurance through an employer, additionally due to the limited income of a small business owner, she
and her husband are currently uninsured and their children are covered through Apple Health for Kids.
She has had a great experience with Apple Health for Kids and really supports those who work hard to
offer the opportunity of health insurance coverage to low income families. Her son Judah has Sickle Cell
Disease and so he needs quality health care at all times. Foxy will bring great perspective to the
exchange board’s advisory committees. In 2014, her family will have some private insurance (through
the exchange) and her children will be on Apple Health for Kids. She also has experience navigating the
current eligibility, enrollment and benefits systems. She will be a great asset when discussing the
navigator program, eligibility and enrollment, Federal Basic Health Option, community outreach,
benefits, low income populations, and children with special health care needs.
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AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
Janet Varon, Northwest Health Law Advocates
Executive Director
Northwest Health Law Advocates (NoHLA) is a Seattle-based nonprofit organization that works to
protect and expand access to quality health care, particularly for lower-income individuals. NoHLA
engages in a wide range of activities, including legislative and administrative analysis and advocacy;
training community advocates and providers on health law issues; publishing consumer-oriented
materials about health coverage and rights; and legal consultation and representation of low-income
individuals.
Janet Varon is the founder and Executive Director of Northwest Health Law Advocates. Before starting
NoHLA in 1999, Janet worked for 12 years as a staff attorney at Evergreen Legal Services, representing
Washington residents in public benefits matters.
She serves on the Board of the National Health Law Program and the Advisory Board of the Medical
Legal Partnership for Children and coordinates the statewide legal advocates' Medical Assistance Work
Group. She is a member of Commissioner Kreidler’s Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Pool Advisory
Committee.
She served on and chaired the Title XIX Medical Assistance Advisory Committee and was a member of
the Washington State Certificate of Need Task Force.
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AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
Brenda Montgomery, The American Diabetes Association
RN, MS, CDE
Education
Seattle University
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The George Washington University
Master of Science in Health Sciences
Professional Experience
Director
1995-present
Diabetes Research Group
University of Washington and VA Puget Sound Health Care System
Diabetes Research Group
Manager of National Institutes of Health and pharmaceutical sponsored clinical trials related to
diabetes, pre-diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders. Locally responsible for
all operations including oversight of subject participation, adherence to study protocols, patient
teaching/counseling and medication titration. Administrative responsibilities include design,
preparation, and monitoring of study budgets and supervision of a multi-disciplinary staff of sixteen.
National duties include responsibility for oversight of protocol conduct, clinic operations and quality
control at 40 U.S. clinical sites. University specific activities include appointments to the Human
Subjects Committee and the School of Medicine’s Clinical Research Education Committee.
Consultant/Lead Facilitator
Healthy Interactions
May 2007 to present
Travel across the United States training diabetes care providers (nurses, dieticians, pharmacists,
physicians) in all aspects of a diabetes curriculum entitled: “Conversation Maps”. Conduct these in a
train the trainer modality so that attendees become certified facilitators at the end of the training.
Clinical Research Coordinator
May 1990-August 1995
University of Washington Burn Center
Harborview Medical Center
Coordinated research studies in adult and pediatric patients for intensive and acute care burn units.
Duties included design and implementation of protocols, human subjects applications, and development
of research budgets. Maintained database, provided research study education to nurse and physician
staff. Supervised and trained research assistants. Responsible for patient education, safety standards,
and acted as liaison with pharmaceutical company sponsors.
Clinical Research Nurse
September 1988-July
1990
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
Responsible for the management of clinical trials for the Pain and Toxicity Department, including drug
trials and testing of new delivery systems. Perform studies in the human subjects laboratory, involving
the effects of drugs on evoked potentials using dental and auditory stimulus. Developed research tool
for chart abstracting of drug data. Supervised and trained data collectors and nursing staff.
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Registered Nurse
August 1986-May 1990
University of Washington Medical Center
Critical Care Unit
Provide nursing care to a variety of patients: medical, surgical, oncology, neurology. Responsible for
continuous monitoring/assessment of acutely ill patients. Active in the orientation program, acting as a
preceptor to orientees. Worked as per diem staff nurse in critical care and oncology units from October
1988-May 1990.
Professional and Academic Committees/Memberships
American Diabetes Association
National Board of Directors
National Committees:
Community & Volunteer Development Committee
Scientific Sessions Oversight Committee
Nominating
CardioMetabolic Risk Initiative
Research Policy
Auditor for Recognized Programs
Prevention Committee
Local Committees:
Seattle Leadership Council
President, Seattle Leadership Council
Certified Diabetes Educator
1995-present
2007-2010
2004-2007
2005-2006
2008-2010
2007-present
2007-present
2010-present
20122000-present
2006-2008
2002-present
American Association of Diabetes Educators
1995-present
Washington Association of Diabetes Educators
Board Positions:
Past President/Nominating Committee
President
President Elect
Chair, Research Committee
Chair, Professional Education Committee
1995- present
2001-2002
2000-2001
1999-2000
1996-2000, 2003-2006
2004-2006
Diabetes Prevention Program Committees
Protocol Oversight Program
Clinic Operations Committee
Interventions Committee
Recruitment and Retention Committee
Economic Evaluation Committee
Program Coordinators Committee, Co-Chair
Look AHEAD (Action for Health in Diabetes) Committees
Clinic Operations/Quality Control, Chair
Ancillary Studies Committee
Program Managers Committee, Chair
Committee Overseeing Protocol
26
Core Measurements Committee
Awards
Distinguished Service Award, WADE
ADA Volunteer Excellence Award
University of Washington Distinguished Staff Award
American Burn Association Outstanding Abstract Award
2008
2001 and 2003
1998
1991
27
AC Nominee: Consumer advocates
Misha Werschkul, Legislative and Policy Director, SEIU Healthcare 775NW
Healthcare Northwest Health Benefits Trust
Misha Werschkul serves as the Legislative and Policy Director for SEIU Healthcare 775NW, a labor union
representing 43,000 low-wage long-term care workers in Washington state and Montana, and also is a
Trustee for the SEIU Healthcare Northwest Health Benefits Trust, a Taft-Hartley trust providing health
insurance to over 10,000 low-wage workers in Washington state.
Misha has expertise in health policy, and has a Master’s degree in public policy and women’s studies
from George Washington University. Misha was selected to serve on the Exchange and Insurance
Reforms Advisory Committee for the Joint Select Committee on Health Care Reform Implementation
and is leading SEIU Healthcare 775NW’s work to understand how health care reform will impact lowwage workers in Washington state.
The SEIU Healthcare Northwest Health Benefits Trust is a Taft-Hartley trust providing affordable
medical, prescription drug, vision and dental benefits to Home Care Aides in Washington and Montana,
who earn $10–$11 per hour to provide life-sustaining support for seniors and people with disabilities.
The Health Benefits Trust also provides health insurance to child care workers represented by SEIU Local
925.
28
AC Nominee: Health insurance brokers
Sean Corry, Sprague Israel Giles, Inc.
President
Education
B.S., Summa Cum Laude
Economics and Philosophy
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, 1980.
Professional
1989 To Present:
Insurance Broker, Sprague Israel Giles, Inc. Insurance
Examples of Twenty-five Year History of Industry, Policy, and Community Service
Member of the Joint Legislative TAC
Member of the Health Care Authority TAC
Co-chair, OIC Realization Committee
Board Member, Washington Coalition for Insurance Parity
Board Vice Chair, Consumer Representative, Washington State Health Insurance Pool
President, Boyer Children’s Clinic
President, Northwest Health Law Advocates
Consumer Representative, OIC Let’s Get Washington Covered Task Force
Washington Health Foundation Health Access Advisory Council
Washington State Insurance Commissioner’s Life & Health Advisory Committee
Washington State Health Care Authority Small Business Advisory Committee.
Legislative Liaison, PKU Action Group
Washington State Genetics Advisory Committee
Birth Defects Surveillance Committee
Advisory Council, Children’s Hospital and Medical Center, for Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
grant to study Caring for Children At The End Of Life: Improving Access And Quality Of Care
29
AC Nominee: Health insurance brokers
Vernon Bonfield, Washington Health Insurance Agency
Vernon Bonfield has been a licensed insurance agent for over 15 years. As a Health Insurance Specialist,
he has helped several Washington residents, business owners, and non-profit organizations find better
ways to lower their health insurance costs while improving their HR administration and employee
benefits. Over the past decade he has become a resource for local agencies, organizations, and private
companies regarding health care policies, reform topics, and health insurance issues. Distinguished as an
‘Expert Author’, Vernon has written several articles, participated in discussion panels and speaking
engagements related to the vast and complex subject of Health Care and Health Insurance.
30
AC Nominee: Health insurance brokers
Chris Free, Rapport Benefits Group
Employee Benefits Consultant
Chris is an employee benefits consultant and licensed producer. He is a principal at Rapport Benefits
Group, the incoming president for the Washington Association of Health Underwriters, and has a
current appointment to the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner’s Producer Advisory
Committee.
31
AC Nominee: Health insurance brokers
David Maddock, Washington Association of Health Underwriters
Employee Benefits Consultant
Summary
Implement and maintain long term employee benefit solutions that are financially sustainable, attract
qualified employees, and meet the needs of the employer and employees while maintaining compliance
with constantly changing health insurance laws.
Specialties
Employee Benefits, Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Life Insurance, Self-Funding, Benefits
Compliance, Health Savings Accounts, Health Reimbursement Arrangements, Consumer Directed
Healthcare
Experience
President at Washington Association of Health Underwriters WAHU
July 2011 - Present (10 months)
The Washington Association of Health Underwriters promotes the highest level of professional and
ethical conduct amongst its membership of health insurance brokers, agents, and providers. We deliver
education, public policy information and policy recommendations to our members. In addition, we
advocate consumer choice, accessible and affordable quality healthcare for our communities.
Employee Benefits Consultant at Maddock & Associates
October 2001 - Present (10 years 7 months)
Help employers implement and maintain long term employee benefit strategies that are financially
sustainable, attract qualified employees, and meet he needs of existing employees while maintaining
compliance with constantly changing laws.
Senior Sales Consultant at CobWeb
March 1999 - October 2001 (2 years 8 months)
Helped companies design, create,and run custom e-commerce websites. Started as a programmer and
was promoted to new business acquisition (sales). Lead the company in sales using my consultative sales
skills along with technical knowledge to secure large, complex deals.
Consultant at Ernst & Young
June 1997 - March 1999 (1 year 10 months)
Worked on a variety of IT consulting of projects for Fortune 500 companies as a software programmer
and writing test cases. I also had the opportunity to work on teams creating proposals for new business.
Skills & Expertise
Employee Benefits
Health Savings Accounts
Health Insurance
Brokers
Insurance
Disability Insurance
New Business Development
32
Education
University of Washington
Business, Information Systems, 1994 - 1998
Honors and Awards
Registered Health Underwriter RHU - American College
Certified Consumer Directed Healthcare Consultant - UHC
Interests
Employee Benefits, Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Life Insurance, Estate/Business Planning
33
AC Nominee: Health insurance brokers
Peter Carpenter, ClearPoint
Managing Director
With more than twenty years of experience in group insurance benefits, Peter Carpenter has developed
a strong reputation within both the employee benefit industry and the general business community. As
co-founder of ClearPoint, Peter focuses on implementing creative solutions with multi-location
employers and negotiates with ClearPoint’s large network of benefit vendors.
Prior to founding ClearPoint, Peter honed his skills in group benefits as vice president of sales and
marketing for The Reppond Company (now BenefitPort Northwest). He served as a group representative
and manager for Sun Life Insurance Company.
I believe I would be an asset to the Exchange Board Advisory Committee as I have extensive experience
in working as a benefits consultant, risk manager and insurance carrier representative. I also withhold a
balanced approach in seeking a positive outcome for all stakeholders involved in an issue.
34
AC Nominee: Health insurance brokers
Crystal Selby, Propel Insurance
I would like to participate on the Advisory Committee for the Washington Health Insurance Exchange. I
have 20 years of health insurance background primarily in the Washington marketplace, with a wide
variety of work history and knowledge that could benefit the committee. Here are my background, to
give you an idea of my breadth of knowledge:
Worked with employer groups from sole proprietors to upwards of 6,000 lives in managing their
employee benefit programs: forecasting rate increases, negotiating renewals, communicating
plan changes to members.
Written individual policies through Washington insurers, explaining the application process and
the State Pool option on the possibility of rejection.
Managed processes for two small employer group benefit trusts, Washington Software Alliance
(now part of WTIA) and National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) as well as working
closely for a period of time with the Washington Farm Bureau.
Worked at Premera Blue Cross through a claims system conversion, managing account
transitions and working out comparable contract and benefit provisions.
Extensive experience with special program designs such as consumer driven plans.
I am a University of Washington graduate. Last year I earned my Certified Employee Benefits Specialist
(CEBS) designation and I am now an active member in the International Society for Certified Employee
Benefit Specialists (ISCEBS). Other continuing education participation includes attendance of Employee
Benefits Institute of America and Western Pension and Benefits Conference seminars, among others.
Currently I work for Bratrud Middleton Insurance Brokers, Inc., dba, Propel Insurance. We are a locally
owned regional brokerage firm with a wide variety of clientele. Some of our specialty industries include
school districts, assisted living establishments, transportation industry and medical providers.
You’ll find I have honed reasoning skills and because of my varied work history, I have the ability to look
at all sides of a situation before making a judgment. Unlike some in the insurance community, I don’t
have a fear of government’s role in healthcare. It’s not about job security, it’s about creating a
sustainable system that will work for everyone.
35
AC Nominee: Health insurance brokers
Ted Blotsky
For the past 20 years Ted has directed a bona-fide association Health & welfare group Trust that is now
the largest in Eastern Washington. The program provides health and welfare to 220+ small employer
groups totaling over 7,000 insured individuals, which calculates over 30 million dollars of annualized
premium. Members rely on Ted’s 35+ years experience bringing innovative and cost-effective employee
benefits solutions that now include Consumer Driven Health Care Programs, to employers.
His education includes Kinman Business University, Whitworth College and various other employee
benefit programs that enabled Ted to earn a Brokers license from the Office of the Insurance
Commissioner for Health, Life and Disability.
In 2007 Ted was appointed to the Washington Health Insurance Partnership Board by Governor
Gregoire, of which he still serves. Ted was also on the Small Business advisory board to the Office of the
Insurance Commissioner and to the Academy of Healthplan Purchasing Cooperatives----1992 through
1996. Currently Ted serves as President of the Board for the Northwest Association of Administrators
for Washington, Oregon and Idaho.
Other community service/volunteer activities include:
President elect of the Board for Cancer Patient Care of Spokane
Served as Board members and head football coach for Spokane Youth Sports, 1975 through
2001.
Served as President of the Board for Medical Service Corporation Federal Credit Union, 1976
through 1988.
36
AC Nominee: Health providers
Debbie Wilkinson
As Chief Operations Officer of HealthPoint, Debbie Wilkinson provides operations oversight of eight
medical and four dental clinics in King County. For the past several years, Debbie has focused on the
expansion of programs and facilities to meet the growing needs of the communities that HealthPoint
serves. She is currently overseeing the construction of a 28,000 square feet facility which will provide
medical, dental, and pharmacy services in the City of Bothell and surrounding areas. In her current
capacity, Debbie is actively involved with community and county organizations, such as King County
Public Health, and state and local government representatives to maintain vital health care services to
underserved populations.
Debbie has worked in health care administration for over 25 years. Prior to HealthPoint, Debbie served
as the Area Director of Community Support and Grants at Highline Community Hospital. In that position,
Debbie advocated for services for women and children and established one of the first “First Steps”
clinics in Washington State. She is also the recipient of the “Best Patient Advocacy” award from the
National Association of Women’s Health Care Professionals and the “Best Innovation in Health Care
Delivery” award from Washington Hospital Association. Debbie continues to focus on the continuity of
care for vulnerable populations. For the last two years, Debbie has served on the Executive Council of
the King County Health Care Coalition, which establishes the strategic direction of the coalition and
approves regional and health sector emergency preparedness plans.
37
AC Nominee: Health providers
Rhonda Hauff, Yakima Neighborhood Health Services
Chief Operating Officer / Deputy CEO
Rhonda has been with YNHS since 1983. She is Past Chair of the Homeless Network of Yakima County,
and serves on two sub-committees of the Washington State Joint Select Committee on Health to
address issues facing Low Income Populations in Health Care Reform. She also serves on two National
Committees addressing Health Care for Homeless and Public Housing Populations, and is part of the
inaugural class of the Graduate Certificate Program at George Washington University in Community
Health Center Management.
38
AC Nominee: Health providers
Dian Cooper, Cowlitz Family Health Center
Chief Executive Director
A recognized leader in the areas of social work and comprehensive healthcare, Dian Cooper has assisted
vulnerable and underserved populations for over 30 years. She graduated from Portland State
University, earning both a Bachelor of the Arts degree in English and a Master of Science degree in
Special Education. Early in her career, Dian’s dedication and enthusiasm for improving the lives of
others enabled her to succeed as a counselor and Director at Next Door Inc, the Frontier House, and the
Portland Action Committee Together Southeast Youth Service Center.
In 1982, Dian began her work at the Cowlitz Family Health Center, a medical clinic dedicated to
providing care for low income, underinsured, and uninsured patients. In 1989, Dian accepted a position
as Executive Director for the Cowlitz County Emergency Support Shelter, but after a few years, reallocated her time to the development of the Family Health Center. As Chief Executive Officer, Dian has
expanded the Family Health Center’s funding base to include federal and state level support, grant
allocations and private donor contributions. She has overseen several clinic remodels as well as an
expansion of the center which now consists of four satellite clinics, in three area counties. Dian prides
herself on recent center accomplishments including: a strategic alliance with Cowlitz County mental
health and substance abuse prevention providers; an expanded and successful in-house behavioral
health department; and the substantial improvement of quality outcomes, while providing care to more
patients than ever.
Dian has served on several prestigious boards, all of which are dedicated to serving the populations that
she feels the most passionate about. Her current board assignments include: Washington Association
of Community and Migrant Health Centers Board; Community Health Network/Community Health Plan
of Washington Board; Community Health Network Ethics Committee; OCHIN Board; Pathways 2020
Board; Lower Columbia CAP Board; and Southwest Washington Regional Health Alliance Steering
Committee.
Dian also belongs to a number of organizations whose missions correlate with her personal and
professional values. Her current professional memberships include: Washington State Council on Family
Planning; National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association; Washington Association of
Community and Migrant Health Centers; Northwest Regional Primary Care Association; and the National
Association of Community Health Centers.
39
AC Nominee: Health providers
Lloyd David, Polyclinic
Executive Director
Lloyd David joined The Polyclinic in 1994 as Executive Director /CEO. Since his arrival The Polyclinic has
grown from 70 to over 125 physicians, revenue has tripled and it now serves more than 120,000
patients in the Seattle-area. Three specialties have been added to the multi-specialty group as well as
ancillary services such as sleep medicine, physical therapy, hospitalists, diagnostic imaging and
laboratories. The Polyclinic has expanded to 11 locations and has launched disease management
programs to provide extra patient care and support. Over the past twelve years, The Polyclinic has
consistently achieved its goals and mission and has been ranked number one in patient satisfaction for
the state of Washington.
Mr. David’s primary role is to develop strategy and ensure the values and mission of The Polyclinic are
appropriately supported by its people, systems and culture. After nearly 100 years, The Polyclinic
continues to meet these goals. Mr. David also helped found the Puget Sound Health Alliance, a not-for
profit coalition of purchasers, providers, consumers, and payers dedicated to improving health care
quality and cost in the region. Mr. David currently serves as secretary of the Board of Directors of the
Puget Sound Health Alliance. He also previously served as president of the Washington Medical Group
Alliance, an association of 12 large medical groups and as a trustee of the Washington State Medical
Group Management Association. Prior to joining The Polyclinic in 1994, Mr. David served in a variety of
administrative roles at Harborview Medical Center where his responsibilities included strategic and
facility planning, marketing, regulatory affairs, fund development and organization training and
development. He has a B.A. in government from Harvard University and an Executive M.B.A. from the
University of Washington.
40
AC Nominee: Health providers
Leo Greenawalt, Washington State Hospital Association
Former President
EXPERIENCE
1981 – 2011
President
Washington State Hospital Association
1975 - 1981
Vice President, Government Affairs Division
Michigan Hospital Association
1973 - 1975
Vice President
Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA)
1971-1973
Legal Research and Consulting for the Health Law Center
Aspen Systems Corporation
1969 - 1971
Chief Executive Officer
Hastings Indian Hospital in Tahlequah, Oklahoma
1968 - 1969
Staff Assistant, Division of Health Standards
U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare
1967-1968
Resident in Hospital Administration
under Dan Macer and Bob Sigmond
PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
National
American Hospital Association
 Member, Circle of Life Committee
 Member, Governing Board
 Member, Strategic Planning Committee
 Member, Health Care '94 Steering Committee: Shaping Tomorrow Today
 Member, Committee on Allieds
 Member, Task Force on National Health Care Reform
State Hospital Association Executives Forum (SHAEF)
 Chair of the Board
Group Health Cooperative
 Member, Board of Trustees
The Healthcare Forum
 Member, Governing Board
41
 Chair, Annual Convention Planning Committee
Professional and Community Activities cont'd
American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE)
 Chair, Public Policy Committee
 Chair, Committee on Associations
 Member, Nominating Committee
 Fellow
National Center for Healthcare Leadership (NCHL)
 Member, Governing Board
 Member, Finance Committee
The Hospital Fund
 Member, Governing Board
State and Local
Vice Chair, Committee on Affordable Health Care
A coalition of consumers, business, government, and health care leaders and
consumers committed to universal access for all residents of our state.
Chair and Member, Washington Healthcare Forum
Chair, United Way of King County, Health Provider Division
Member, various health commissions and studies
Academic
Member, Visiting Committee, UW School of Nursing
Member, Visiting Committee, UW Program in Health Care Administration
Frequent lecturer, UW School of Medicine, UW Program in Health Care Administration
HONORARY AWARDS
American College of Healthcare Executives Gold Medal Award
Washington State Hospital Association Joe Hopkins Memorial Award for Leadership
Group Health Community Foundation Health Care Achievement Award
Washington Health Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award
42
FORMAL EDUCATION
1984 - 1988
Sustained periodic formal training in media presentation
1984
Western Network Institute for Health Care Executives
University of California at Berkeley
Certificate awarded for completion of two week course.
1980
Harvard University
Certificate awarded for completion of course on the
management of multi-hospital systems.
1974
University of Pittsburgh and Georgetown University Schools of Law
Law degree (J.D.) awarded.
1968
University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health
Masters Degree in Medical and Hospital Administration awarded.
1966
University of Notre Dame
Bachelor of Arts Degree awarded.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Fellow, American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) (Recertified)
Admitted to Practice Law in Pennsylvania and Michigan
PUBLICATIONS
Co-Author of book with David Starkweather, Antitrust Implications of Hospital Mergers
Author, articles and commentaries in health journals
43
AC Nominee: Health providers
Michael Vanderlinde, UW Medicine
Director of Government Financial Relations and Reimbursement
Mike is the Director of Government Financial Relations and Reimbursement for UW Medicine which
includes Harborview Medical Center, University of Washington Medical Center, Northwest Hospital and
Medical Center, Valley Medical Center, UW Neighborhood Clinics, UW Physicians, UW School of
Medicine and Airlift Northwest. Mike has over 25 years of experience in health care leadership positions
all within the UW Medicine system.
Mike began his heath care career at University of Washington Medical Center in 1984, where he was
steadily promoted from Budget Director to Assistant Administrator, Financial Planning. In 2001, Mike
assumed the newly created leadership position at Harborview Medical Center responsible for Revenue
Cycle Management, Government Relations and Reimbursement. In 2010, Mike was promoted to the
position of UW Medicine Director of Financial Relations and Reimbursement. In this position, Mike
provides leadership, communication and representation of UW Medicine’s positions and interests
related to healthcare reimbursement and regulatory issues to Federal and State agencies, standing and
technical advisory committees and national associations.
Before coming to UW Medicine, Mike worked in progressive management and ownership positions in
the manufacturing and retail sectors.
Mike graduated from the University of Oregon with Bachelor’s Degrees in Accounting and Finance. He
has extensive experience as an invited speaker on a variety of healthcare financing and strategic
planning topics and is a frequently sought after participant in State and federal technical and policy
advisory committees.
Mike currently serves on multiple public advisory committees include: the Financial Advisory Committee
of the National Association of Public Hospitals (NAPH), the Health Reform Fellowship Program of the
American Hospital Association (AHA), the Washington State Joint Select Committee and the Office of the
Insurance Commissioner’s Technical Advisory Committee on Health Care Reform and the Washington
State Trauma Fund Technical Advisory Committee.
Mike also serves as Planning Commissioner for the City of Kenmore and has an appointment to the City
of Kenmore’s Economic Development Commission.
44
AC Nominee: Health providers
Hiroshi Nakano, South Sound Neurosurgery
Chief Executive Officer
Hiroshi Nakano is currently the Chief Executive Officer at South Sound Neurosurgery. Mr. Nakano has
experience in health insurance having held management and consulting positions at KPS Health Plans
and Regence BlueShield. He was the Executive Director at Valley Physicians Organization, an
independent physician association, created in 1995 in response to Washington State’s healthcare reform
laws.
Mr. Nakano has extensive board experience with community health centers. He is currently the Board
Secretary at International Community Health Services (ICHS), having previously served at President for
most of his 15 year term at ICHS. He is also the Consumer Representative at the Association of Asian
Pacific Islander Community Health Organizations (AAPCHO), a national advocacy group of community
health centers addressing health disparities in the Asian and Pacific Islander communities. In addition,
he is sitting on the Consumer Committee of the National Association of Community Health Centers
(NACHC).
Mr. Nakano holds a Master’s in Business Administration from the Sloan Hospital & Health Sciences
Program at Cornell University.
45
AC Nominee: Health providers
Rudy Vasquez, Sea Mar
Multicultural Services Director
Rudy Vasquez is currently the Multicultural Services Director for Sea Mar Community Health Centers.
He has over 20 years’ experience in health coverage and health care advocacy. Rudy first started his
work in the health care industry in 1987 as a case manager for the HIV/AIDS program for Southwest
Washington Health District in Vancouver Washington. While in Clark County he was appointed to sit on
the Mental Health Advisory Board to the Commissioners of Clark County and appointed by Governor
Lowry to the Governor’s Advisory Committee on HIV/AIDS (GACHA). Rudy also formed the Minority
Health Task Force of Clark County which later played a pivotal role in the establishment of a health
center in Clark County.
He joined the Washington Association of Community & Migrant Health Centers (WACMHC) and served
as their Director of Community Development. He continued his work in community organizing and
provided them assistance in developing health care access for low income populations. In early 2000 he
formed a partnership with Medical Assistance Administration and the Washington Health Foundation to
create a statewide coalition known as the Washington Coalition on Medicaid/Medicare Outreach
(WCOMO). The coalition still in existence today was formed to create linkage between the Department
of Health & Human Services, Health Care Authority Basic Health and community advocates to facilitate
communication, share best practices, leverage resources, and work towards expanding access to health
coverage and care for low income communities. He was then appointed by Governor Locke to sit on the
Washington Human Rights Commission. He served a 7 year term of which 3 years he served as chair.
Rudy currently oversees Sea Mar’s Managed Care / Utilization Department and is responsible for over 30
Customer Service Representatives located in over 20 medical sites in 10 counties. His department is
responsible for ensuring that low income eligible populations are provided assistance in accessing public
health coverage and health care. Included among his other duties is providing oversight to the Early
Support for Infants & Toddlers program in King County and Sea Mar’s AmeriCorp / HealthCorp Program.
He was invited to sit on the Health Information Exchange and has just started his 2nd term. He also
serves as vice-chair for the Comprehensive Health Education Board of Directors (CHEF).
While at Sea Mar Rudy has continued his work in community organizing and formed the Alliance for
Healthy Communities of Color, who worked in partnership with the Department of Health & Human
Services in presenting a statewide conference on Health Care Reform in 2010. He in partnership with
DSHS Region 5 formed the Consortium on Health Care Information & Access (CHIA) for Pierce and Kitsap
Counties.
46
AC Nominee: Health providers
Gerald Lorch, Washington State Chapter of the American College of Cardiology
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Undergraduate:
Tufts University
Medford, Massachusetts
9/1961-9/1965
Medical School:
Tufts University School of Medicine
Boston, Massachusetts
9/1965-6/1969
Internship:
Internal Medicine
University of Washington Hospitals
7/1969-7/1970
Residency:
Internal Medicine
University of Washington Hospitals
7/1970-7/1972
Fellowship:
Cardiology
University of Washington Hospitals
7/1974-7/1976
BOARDS
National Board of Medical Examiners
American Board of Internal Medicine
Board Certified in Cardiology
07/1970
10/1972
0/1977
FELLOWSHIP
American College of Cardiology
3/1981
MILITARY
Internist – U.S. Army
Walter Reed Hospital
at Rader Army Clinic
Fort Meyer, VA
7/1972-7/1973
Chief, Division of Internal Medicine
Walter Reed Hospital
at Rader Army Clinic
Fort Meyer, VA
7/1973-7/1974
MEDICAL PRACTICE
Cardiovascular Diseases
Southlake Clinic Inc., P.S.
Principal Investigator
Cardiovascular Diseases
Rainier Clinical Research Center
7/76-7/2010
8/2010-present
47
APPOINTMENTS AND POSITIONS HELD
Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine
University of Washington, Seattle, WA
7/1977-6/1981
Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine
University of Washington, Seattle, WA
7/1981- Present
Valley Medic 1 Director
Emergency Paramedics
7/1976-12/1986
King County Medic 1
Chief Medical Director
9/1979-11/1980
CCU Director
Valley Medical Center, Renton, WA
Executive Committee
Southlake Clinic Inc., P.S.
7/1978-1/1994
1987-1989
1990-2009
Chairman, Emergency Services Dept.
Valley Medical Center, Renton, WA
2/1990-2/1993
Vice Chief of Staff
Valley Medical Center, Renton, WA
2/1994-2/1996
Chairman, Quality Assessment Utilization Committee
Valley Medical Center
2/1994-2/1996
Chief of Staff
Valley Medical Center
2/1996-2/1998
Director
Valley Medical Center Chest Pain Unit
2/1999-2/2010
President
Southlake Clinic, Inc., P.S.
1/2002-6/2009
48
AC Nominee: Health providers
Lucy Homans, Washington State Psychological Association
Director of Professional Affairs and Legislative Consultant
Lucy A. Homans, Ed.D. is a licensed psychologist in Washington State. She is currently the Director of
Professional Affairs (DPA) and Legislative Consultant for the Washington State Psychological Association.
She has served as DPA since 1992. Dr. Homans received her doctorate in Counseling Psychology from
Teachers College, Columbia University in 1982. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political
Science from Tufts University in 1970. Prior to attending graduate school, Dr. Homans served on the
staffs of Boston mayor Kevin H. White and U.S. Representative Paul N. McCloskey, Jr. She maintained a
private clinical practice in Seattle, Washington from 1983 through 1999.
Dr. Homans is the recipient of the 1993 Washington State Psychological Association Distinguished
Psychologist award, the 1998 American Psychological Association Karl F. Heiser award for excellence in
advocacy on behalf of psychology, the 2005 advocacy leadership award from the Washington State
Community Mental Health Council for her work in passing comprehensive mental health parity
legislation, and the 2006 Washington State Psychological Association Sustained Service award.
49
AC Nominee: Health providers
Glenn Lux, Washington State Medical Association
Professional Work Experience
Present Administrative & Governance Experience
1987-present: President, 2000-present: Chief Executive Officer,
Pediatric Associates, Inc., Bellevue, WA [a physician owned primary care
practice of pediatrics employing 81 pediatricians and approximately 240
non-physician employees]
1979-present: Board Member, Pediatric Associates, Inc.
Other Significant Administrative, Governance, and Ownership Experience
2008-present: Trustee, Washington State Medical Association
1994-2000: Chairman of the Board & Founding Director, Cascade Healthcare
Alliance [an Independent Practice Association of 200+ physicians on the
Eastside] and
Chairman of the Board & Founding Director, Cascade Management, Inc.
[the management company serving Cascade Healthcare Alliance]
1990-1996: Director, Medical Services, Naval Reserve Fleet Hospital 9
1985-1996: Co-owner, La Fleur Restaurant, Seattle, WA
1978-present: Managing Partner, Puget Pipes, then Manager, Puget Pipes, LLC,
Seattle WA [a portativ organ rental business]
Medical Practice
1977-2009: Pediatrician, Pediatric Associates, Inc.
1975-1977: General Medical Officer, United States Navy, Naval Dispensary
Sand Point, Seattle, WA
Education
1964-1968:
College: Amherst College, Amherst, MA
Degree: Bachelor of Arts 6/7/1968
Major: Chemistry
Honors: Cum Laude, Sigma Xi
1968-1972:
Medical School: University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry,
Rochester, NY
Degree: Doctor of Medicine 6/2/1972
Scholarship: New York State Regents Medical Scholarship
2003-2006:
Business School: Albers School of Business & Economics,
Seattle University, Seattle, WA
Degree: Master of Business Administration 6/10/2006
Honors: Jerry Viscione Graduate Student Scholar Award 2006
[awarded each year to the outstanding graduating graduate
business student at the Albers School of Business and
Economics, Seattle University]
Beta Gamma Sigma 5/24/2006
Graduate Service Award 2006
Alpha Sigma Nu 2005
50
Postgraduate Medical Training
1972-1973: Intern in Pediatrics, Strong Memorial Hospital & Department of Pediatrics,
University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
1973-1974: Assistant Resident in Pediatrics, Strong Memorial Hospital & Department
of Pediatrics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
1974-1975: Resident in Pediatrics, Children's Orthopedic Hospital & Medical Center
[presently Seattle Children's Hospital] & Department of Pediatrics, University of
Washington, Seattle, WA
1977: Senior Fellow in Dysmorphology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Faculty Appointments & Teaching Activities
1966-1968: Assistant in Department of Chemistry, Amherst College, Amherst, MA
acting as a lab instructor & conducting research in reactions of aromatic radical
anions
1972-2009: Teaching pediatric medicine to pediatric and family medicine house staff and
to medical students in a variety of venues while an intern, resident, fellow, and
attending pediatrician
1972-1974: Assistant in Pediatrics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
1977-1979: Clinical Instructor of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
1979-1985: Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington
1985-present: Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington
2000-present: Teaching the business of primary care pediatric practice to 3rd year
pediatric residents at the R-3 retreat, University of Washington
2006-present: Adjunct Professor of Management, Albers School of Business &
Economics, Seattle University - on faculty of Management 575, "Leading with
Emotional Intelligence", a 50+ contact hour outdoor experiential course taught
three times per year; approximately 100 graduate business students
take this
course each year
Board Certification
National Board of Medical Examiners, Diplomate - 1973
American Board of Pediatrics, Board Certified - 1978
American Board of Medical Management, Certified Physician Executive - March 9, 2011
Community Service
Present significant Community Service
1996-present: Member, 2000-present: Chair, Finance Council, St. James Cathedral,
Seattle, WA
2009-present: Member, Board of Directors, 2012-present: President, Board of
Directors, Kindering Center, Bellevue, WA [a nationally recognized
non-profit organization that evaluates and treats over 3,000 children per year
under age 3 with special needs]
Past significant Community Service
1975-1980: Business Manager, Treasurer, & Board Member,
Seattle Pro Musica Society, Seattle, WA
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1994-1995: Member, University of Washington Pediatric Chair Search Committee
2008-2010: Member, Major Institution Master Plan Leadership Cabinet for
Seattle Children’s Hospital
Other
Licensed to practice medicine in Washington State since 1974
Medical staffs:
Seattle Children's Hospital 1977-present [presently Affiliate Staff]
Evergreen Hospital Medical Center, Kirkland, WA 1977-2009
Overlake Hospital Medical Center, Bellevue, WA 1977-2009
Chief of Pediatrics 1978-1980
Fellow: American Academy of Pediatrics
Member: American College of Physician Executives, Medical Group Management
Association, American Medical Association, North Pacific Pediatric Society,
Washington State Medical Association, and King County Medical Society
Member of numerous hospital/health care organization and medical society committees
and taskforces in the past [details available on request]
Member: Cathedral Choir of St. James 1996-present
U.S. Navy: Active Duty 1975-1977; Active Naval Reservist, 1977-1996.
Present rank: Captain, Medical Corps, USNR-Retired
Leisure pursuits: Choral Music, Food & Wine, Travel, Hiking, & Italian Language Study
52
AC Nominee: Health providers
Dhyan Lal, Washington State Hospital Association
Dhyan Lal is a seasoned Healthcare Professional with a diverse and extensive background. He has
comprehensive knowledge in the areas of Payor and Managed Care Contracting, Medical Group
Operations, Business and Program Development, Revenue Cycle Services, and Capitation Management.
Over the last two decades, Dhyan’s career highlights have included Senior Management positions at
Tenet Healthcare - a Fortune 500 company, Vice President of Operations and Management Services for
a multi-specialty Medical Group in Southern California, and is currently the Director of Payor Contracting
for Providence Health & Services, Washington and Montana Regions.
Dhyan has direct experience in leading large scale initiatives which have included statewide contracting
and reimbursement strategies, revenue-cycle management processes for a multi-hospital healthcare
system, financial modeling and long-range forecasting, process improvement and ‘rapid redesign’ for
medical group operations, patient throughput protocols at the acute care level, IT conversions (EHR,
Practice Management, and other Clinical and Financial Systems), as well as Medical Group valuations for
mergers & acquisitions.
Dhyan received his B.S. in Health Administration from California State University, Northridge and holds a
Masters degree in Business Administration (MBA) from Saint Mary’s College of California. Dhyan has
been recognized for his excellence in healthcare and was awarded the Roy C. Upton Scholarship from
the American Guild of Patient Account Management in 1993. In addition, he co-authored a research
abstract on "The Relationship between Primary Care Referral Rates and the Utilization of Orthopaedic
Specialty Services", which was presented at the 1998 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons’
meeting in New Orleans, LA. In 2010, he was selected to be a member of the Exchange and Insurance
Reform Advisory Group as part of the Joint Select Committee on Health Reform for the State of
Washington. Dhyan currently resides in the greater Seattle, WA area.
53
AC Nominee: Health providers
Suzanne Petersen Tanneberg, Children’s Hospital
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Results oriented executive leader with practical experience in government relations, public policy
advocacy, non-profit health care and social programs, budget and policy development, agency
management, project management, cross functional and interdepartmental team building, strategic
planning, coalition building, mediation, negotiation, communications, community, public and media
relations.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
CHIEF OF STAFF TO THE CEO AND VICE PRESIDENT, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS & GUEST SERVICES, SEATTLE
CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL, Seattle, Washington – 2000 to Present. Work closely with the CEO to provide
leadership, advice, counsel, review and analysis on the development, implementation and deployment
of organization-wide strategies, goals and prioritization of key initiatives. Collaborate with key external
and internal stakeholders, senior leaders, faculty, government officials and community leaders to gain
input, understanding of and support for Seattle Children’s mission and strategic plan. Lead local,
regional, state and federal government and community relations for the benefit of the hospital and the
patients and families we serve. Lead Children’s guest services program serving patients and families
from across Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho, assisting with transportation, housing, care
coordination and other family needs. Coordinate with external partners a range of targeted
community advocacy initiatives aimed at promoting child health.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, WASHINGTON COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH COUNCIL, Seattle,
Washington – 1997 to 2000. Provided executive leadership to increase the policy impact of this
professional organization composed of 50 community mental health centers located throughout
Washington State. Organizational activities included public policy advocacy, education and training
services, and public education to improve systems of care, reduce the stigma associated with mental
illness, and achieve parity in mental health coverage and access to care.
CO-DIRECTOR, WASHINGTON STATE CHILDREN’S JUSTICE CENTER, Seattle, Washington – 1996 to 1997.
Worked to establish a new non-profit organization to catalyze innovation and reform in public services
for families, and provide legal advocacy for children.
DEPUTY SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL AND HEALTH SERVICES, Olympia, Washington – 1993 to
1996. Assisted in the leadership and management of the $5 billion umbrella agency providing services
for over one million Washington residents annually. Areas of special emphasis included budget and
finance, information systems, union/management relations and cross-program coordination.
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY AND GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS, CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL
CENTER, Seattle, Washington – 1988 to 1993. Managed the federal, state and local government affairs
agenda for the medical center and satellite clinics. Developed the community relations program.
Coordinated the child advocacy agenda. Participated in strategic planning as a member of the six
person chief executive office staff.
SENIOR BUDGET ANALYST, WASHINGTON STATE SENATE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE, Olympia,
Washington – 1985 to 1988. Developed budget and policy recommendations for human service
54
programs including income assistance, medical assistance, children and family services, and aging and
adult services.
MANAGEMENT AUDITOR, WASHINGTON STATE LEGISLATIVE BUDGET COMMITTEE, Olympia,
Washington – 1984 to 1985. Conducted management audits covering broad program scope including
education, pensions, social services and water quality.
INVESTIGATOR, BETTER GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION, Chicago, Illinois – 1978 to 1984. Investigated
waste, inefficiency and corruption in government as a non-partisan effort in partnership with print and
electronic media. Advocated for specific reforms through the media, white paper reports and public
testimony. Special project areas included a child advocacy project funded by the Joyce Foundation and
projects of national scope funded by the MacArthur Foundation.
EDUCATION and PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
MASTER OF ARTS, UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO, SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SERVICE ADMINISTRATION, Chicago,
Illinois – June 1978
BACHELOR OF ARTS, SOCIOLOGY, WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY, Pullman, Washington – February
1976 - Honors Program S. Towne Stephenson Outstanding Scholar
CONTINUOUS PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT (CPI) LEADER TRAINING,
Seattle Children’s Hospital - 2011
MIT-HARVARD PUBLIC DISPUTES PROGRAM Seminar - 2003
PROFESSIONAL MEDIATION SKILLS CERTIFICATE program, University of Washington School of Law –
1996
EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, CASCADE CENTER FOR PUBLIC SERVICE, INSTITUTE FOR
PUBLIC POLICY AND MANAGEMENT, GRADUATE SCHOOL OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS, University of
Washington – 1994
55
AC Nominee: Health providers
Thomas Easterling, Washington State Obstetrical Association
Education
Undergraduate Education
Davidson College, Davidson, N.C.
B.A., Psychology
1968 - 1972
Graduate Education
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, N.C.
Teaching certification in elementary education
1972 - 1973
University of North Carolina, Greensboro, N.C
Premedical course work
Medical Education
University of North Carolina Medical School
M.D.
1976 - 1977
1977 - 1981
Oregon Health Sciences University
Residency in OB/GYN
1981 - 1985
University of Washington
Fellowship, Maternal-Fetal Medicine
1985 - 1987
Employment Experience
St. Mark's School of Texas, Dallas, Texas
Teacher
Faculty Positions
1973 - 1976
Acting Instructor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
1985-1987
Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
1987-1992
Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
1992-2002
Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
2002-present
Honors and Awards
Cum Laude: Davidson College, Davidson, North Carolina,
Honors: University of North Carolina Medical School
1972
1977-1981
56
Merck Manual Award
AOA
Young Investigator Award, 6th International Congress
International Society for the Study of Hypertension in Pregnancy, Montreal
Resident Teaching Award, University of Washington
Frank Lynch Memorial Essayist
Pacific Coast Obstetrics and Gynecological Society
Society Award, Society of Perinatal Obstetricians, Annual Meeting
Best Poster of Session I, Society of Perinatal Obstetricians, Annual Meeting
Best Poster of Session IV, Society of Perinatal Obstetricians, Annual Meeting
Department Research Initiative Award
American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists
HELLP Syndrome Society - Founder’s Award
CREOG Faculty Award for Excellence in Resident Education
Aradia Women’s Health Center – Guardian of Women’s Health Award
Preeclampsia Foundation – Founder’s Award
Board Certification
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Maternal Fetal Medicine
Recertification – Ob-Gyn, MFM
Hypertension Specialist, ASH
1979
1980
1988
1988
1988
1989
1991
1991
1999
2000
2000
2001
2006
1988
1989
1998
1999
Medical Licenses
Washington State
Organizational Memberships
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
The International Society for the Study of Hypertension in Pregnancy
Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine
National Abortion Federation
Society for Gynecological Investigation
North American Society for the Study of Hypertension in Pregnancy
Board of Directors
Secretary-Treasurer
Vice President
President
1995-1997
1997-2000,
2000 – 2003
2003 - 2006
President - 10th International Congress
International Society for the Study of Hypertension in Pregnancy
1996
Preeclampsia Foundation - Founder, Director of Medical Board
2000 – present
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Planned Parenthood – King County Medical Advisory Board
2000 - 2005
The June Foundation for Prenatal maternal Health – Medical Board
2001 - 2005
58
AC Nominee: Health providers
Jennifer Allen, Planned Parenthood
No bio submitted
59
AC Nominee: Health providers
Joy Zaragoza, Washington Dental Service
My name is Joy Zaragoza. I currently work for Washington Dental Service as the Sales Operations
Manager and previously worked for Premera Blue Cross in the same capacity. I would like to nominate
myself for the opportunity to serve on the Advisory Committee. I have a strong work ethic, understand
the current insurance basics and am excited about being part of the solution.
My qualifications to consider are my varied roles in the industry over the past 25 years that include Sales
Operations Manager, Trainer, Care Management Representative, Customer Service Representative,
Underwriting Specialist and Claims Processor. I am passionate about the member experience and care
about the results.
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AC Nominee: Health providers
Patty Longstreet Hayes, Public Health – Seattle & King County
2012-present
EMPLOYMENT
Public Health – Seattle & King County, Community Health Services Division
Division Director
Responsible for the leadership and management of a local public health division that
includes direct clinical services at the public health clinics and programs including
school based health centers; maternal and child health programs; WIC; outreach
and eligibility; and health care for the homeless. Budget of $120M and staff of 700.
2007-2012
WithinReach
Executive Director
Not for profit statewide organization that serves to connect families to health and
food resources. Programs include outreach Information & Referral lines for access
to health services as well as food resources such as WIC and food stamps, innovative
technologies such as ParentHelp123.org, Breast Feeding Coalition, Immunization
Action Coalition and Asian Pacific Islander Hep B Coalition.
1995-2007
Washington State Department of Health
Assistant Secretary, Division of Community and Family Health 2003-2007
Responsible for leadership and management of a division with programs that
include Maternal – Child Health, CHILDprofile immunization registry and health
promotion program, tobacco prevention and control, HIV/AIDS prevention and
intervention, chronic disease prevention and intervention, TB control, family
planning and reproductive health, as well as Women, Infant and Children (WIC)
program. Oversees 290 FTEs within the division and a budget of $570 million.
Special projects/assignments: Lead for the Healthy WA Workgroup planning a
evidence based prevention agenda through interagency action; agency liaison to
Dept. of Early Learning; co-lead representing the Secretary for WA Wellness Works
under the Governor’s directive; represents the Secretary on the Mental Health
Transformation Grant Workgroup; Secretary designee member of Family Policy
Council and Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect.
Director of Policy, Legislative and Constituent Relations 1997-2003
Coordinates and directs the policy office and legislative program for the Department
of Health. Duties also include overseeing the rules process for the department, the
constituent relations program and department liaison to the State Board of Health.
Responsible for department training on policy development and evaluation,
legislative process, and department congressional relations.
Special projects: Liaison to the State Board of Health 1997-2003; Newborn
Screening Advisory Committee, 2001; State immunization policy review and revision
2000; School Health Initiative workgroup 1998; National Council of State Boards of
Nursing, Policy Futures Task Force 1995-1999.
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Executive Director, Health Professions Section Six 1995-1997
Oversees licensing, practice and disciplinary process for RNs, LPNs, Nursing
Assistants and Licensed Midwives in Washington State. Policy projects include
nurse delegation implementation, self-directed care workgroup, review and revision
of rules for advanced registered nurse practitioners, streamlining disciplinary
processes and public policy facilitation on behalf of the Nursing Commission.
Special projects: National Council of State Boards of Nursing, member of
“Multistate Practice Task Force” 1996-97; Board of Health, facilitator of “Surgical
Assistant Definition Workgroup” 1997; Nursing Commission joint workgroup with
DSHS and Dept. of Health on “Self-Directed Care,” facilitator 1997.
1996-1998
Associate Professor, Leadership & Public Policy program, St. Martins College,
Olympia Washington
Responsible for the curriculum development and instruction of evening program for
students pursuing a master in nursing with emphasis on leadership and public
policy. Primary responsibility for development of preceptors and student placement
for policy development experience.
1997 & 1998
Lecturer, Gonzaga University, Spokane Washington
Coordinator for three credit semester class: Health Care Policy: Understanding and
Influencing the Process. Class given through both video/distance learning modality
as well as classroom.
1994-1995
Government Relations Consultant
Contract lobbying and training clients in Washington State. Clients included ARNPs
United, Association of Advanced Practice psychiatric Nurses, Home Care Assoc. of
Washington, Washington Association of Nurse Anesthetists, UW Health Science
Administration and Washington State Dietetic Association.
1992-1994
Associate Director of Federal Government Affairs, American Association of Nurse
Anesthetists, Washington DC
Responsible for the design, establishment and implementation of the association’s
national government relations objectives. Area covered included health care
reform, funding for education programs, Council on Graduate Medical Education
(HHS), appropriations committees, budget committees, Indian affairs committees,
Veterans affairs and the Department of Defense.
1984-1992
Washington State Nurses Association
Executive Director (1989-1992)
Dir. of Nursing Practice & Government Affairs (1986-1989)
Government Relations Specialist (1984-1986)
Responsible for the oversight and policy implementation relating to the mission of
the organizations. Executive Director position included the supervision of four
major programs with a staff of 25, $2 million budgetary oversight, development of
marketing strategies for member services and establishment of the Washington
State Nurses Foundation. Public policy work included development of the
association’s Legislative Day and representing WSNA before the legislature.
62
1980-1984
Nursing Care Consultant/Community Nurse, DSHS
Working with the long term care placement office, responsible for client assessment
and planning for various long term care placement options.
Masters of Nursing (1980), University of Washington. Specialized training in stress
management and family therapy within psychosocial nursing division.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (1976), Univ. of Washington
Washington State Nursing License # 258-00-005812
Washington Connection Advisory Committee, member 2012-present.
Joint Select Committee on Health Care Reform, Exchange and Insurance
Reforms Advisory Group, 2010.
Opportunity Portal subcommittee on technology and partnership, 2010.
DSHS ESA Service Delivery Advisory Council, 2008-present.
American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, Council for the Public Interest in
Anesthesia, 2007-2009.
DSHS Online Application Steering Committee, 2007-2009.
DSHS Cover All Kids Outreach Advisory Committee, 2007-present.
Child Profile advisory committee, State Department of Health, 2003-2009.
APCHSN project advisory committee and clinical faculty, UW school of nursing,
2003-2006.
Public Health Improvement Partnership, Steering Committee and Finance
Committee member, 2002-2007.
UWT, School of Nursing, clinical faculty, 2003-present.
Washington Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect, Council
member and Chair of Legislative Advocacy committee, 2003-2007.
Family Policy Council, Council member and Chair, 2003-2007.
Priorities of Government project through Office of Financial Management,
Governor’s office. 2002 & 2004.
Committee member, Statewide Arthritis Advisory Committee, 2000.
Adjunct faculty appointment, Seattle University, 1997-2000.
Gonzaga University, School of Nursing Advisory Board, member 1998-2000.
Division facilitator for Board of Health workgroup defining surgical assisting, first
assisting and second assisting, 1997.
Division representative to the Health Profession Resource Plan Advisory
Committee, 1996 & 1997.
Nursing Scholarship Oversight Committee, Higher Education Coordinating
Board, 1988-92.
Nursing Articulation Advisory Committee, Higher Education Coordinating Board,
1990.
Chemical Dependency Task Force, Washington State Board of Nursing, 87-88.
Statewide Steering Committee on Adolescent Pregnancy, Pregnancy Prevention
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and Parenting, committee on health and steering committee member 1986-89.
Comparable Worth Advisory Committee, Governor’s Office, 1985-86.
64
AC Nominee: Health providers
Jon Almquist, American Academy of Pediatrics
Dr. Almquist is a retired primary care pediatrician who practiced in Federal Way, Washington. He avidly
participated in our professional organization, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and rose to positions
of leadership locally, regionally and nationally. He remains active in our state Chapter and I call on him
regularly for advice and assistance.
Dr. Almquist brings particular expertise and insight on issues of health care access and financing. He has
worked extensively with the health insurance carriers in our state. He will be a widely respected voice
for the health of Washington’s children.
65
AC Nominee: Health providers
Terri Fox, The Washington State Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
RD, CD, CDE
Ms. Fox is the president-elect of the Washington State Academy. She is a clinical dietitian/diabetes
educator for Group Health Cooperative in Olympia. In addition, Ms. Fox’s husband is a small business
owner.
The Washington State Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is Washington State’s largest organization of
nutrition professionals. We support the work of the Exchange and believe Ms. Fox can bring a unique,
thoughtful and educated perspective to this group.
66
AC Nominee: Health providers
Lydia Bartholomew, Aetna, Washington Academy of Family Physicians
Lydia Bartholomew, MD, MHA, FACPE, FAAFP is a senior medical director for Aetna with management
responsibilities that have not precluded her continued care for patients in clinic most weeks, active
involvement in leadership of the WAFP, and participation in WSMA activities. Dr. Bartholomew has a
keen understanding of the many issues the advisory committee will be exploring for the board, and is an
articulate, collegial professional.
67
AC Nominee: Small business representatives
Donna Steward, Association of Washington Business
Director of Government Affairs
Donna Steward is currently Director of Government Affairs for the Association of Washington Business.
In this role she brings forward the voice of small and large businesses statewide on the issues of health
care, education and unemployment insurance policy. She works closely with association members,
other business leaders, legislators, state agencies and other stakeholders to affect positive change for
employers.
Prior to employment with AWB, she was the Associate Regional Administrator of the Division of
Medicare Financial Management for the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Her
responsibilities included medical review, fraud and abuse, payment integrity and oversight of Medicare
contractors in 36 states spanning four CMS regional offices.
Donna also served as the Executive Director of the Association of Washington Healthcare Plans and
worked as a Legislative Research Analyst for the Washington State House of Representatives covering
health care and education issues.
She is currently a member of the Employment Security Department’s Unemployment Insurance Advisory
Committee, chair and founder of the national Employers for Quality Health Care coalition, member of
the Washington Policy Center’s Education Council, former co-chair of the Healthy Communities
Partnership, and former co-chair of the Washington State Medicare-Medicaid fraud and abuse project
known as the Medi-Medi Project.
Honors include 2008 Federal Employee of the Year award recipient and nomination to the federal Senior
Executive Service training program.
She is a native Washingtonian and graduate of the University of Washington with a BA in Economics.
68
AC Nominee: Small business representatives
Mike Fournier, Washington Farm Bureau
Staff Assistant
Mike has worked over thirty years in the health care insurance field. He is a licensed broker and has
maintained his membership in the national and state association of health underwriters. Past history
includes being the Vice President for Blue Shield for 25 years. In that capacity was responsible for health
care plan underwriting - working with Milliman actuarial firm, product development, state and federal
legal compliance and filings, customer service and sales. In this capacity he worked with the OIC directlyDebra Senn, then OIC commissioner and her assistant Beth Berendt. Mike has also assisted in the
management of 13 family care physician offices in Whatcom County. In this capacity he was responsible
for negotiating with health insurance carriers for reimbursement, credentialing providers, office
management, establishment of new services such as their nuclear imaging facility and introduction of
new providers to the community. He has also served as a consultant in medical provider communication
IT development with the development with the introduction of a secure messaging system to family
physicians. He has worked on many sides of the health care delivery system; as a purchaser health care
insurance, consultant to employers purchasing benefits for their employees, as a consumer using
medical services, as a developer introducing new quality outcome systems for providers, as a negotiator
with health insurance carriers, as a health insurance carrier plan development meeting market demands
by employers and as an interface with regulators to assure proper oversight of legal compliance. He has
worked with employers in size from the Alcoa aluminum at cherry point with 1,200 employees to farms
as small with one employee. He has created incentive plans, wellness plans and financial rebate plans
for employees to stay healthy. He created the WellAware program for Georgia Pacific Corporation
AWPPW to help the union educate members on wellness activities. This program was later expanded to
all blue shield programs and benefits.
Currently serves at the Washington Farm Bureau as staff assistant to the Washington Farm Bureau
Health Care Trust which offers Association Health Plan (AHP) group insurance plans to its membership.
In this capacity Mike helps in the negotiations with the carrier (Regence) on the risk and rate modeling.
He also enrolls members in individual and Medicare insurance products and consults with the
agents/producers on group and individual health care plans.
Community Contributions
Past experience in participation on church councils, non-profit boards, and various committees for the
school district, rotary, President of the YMCA and Dollars for Scholars.
69
AC Nominee: Small business representatives
Joshua Welter Main Street Alliance of Washington
Director
As the Director of the Main Street Alliance of Washington, Joshua oversees public policy development,
membership engagement, and government and public relations for a coalition of more than 2,000 small
businesses in Washington State. Joshua serves on the Steering Committee for the Healthy Washington
Coalition, and served on the Exchange Advisory Committee for the Joint Select Committee on Health
Care Reform Implementation.
70
AC Nominee: Tribal representative
Sheryl Lowe, American Indian Health Committee
No bio submitted
71
AC Nominee: Tribal representative
Leslie Wosnig, Northwest Indian Health Board
Health Policy Administrator, Suquamish Tribe
72
AC Nominee: Tribal representative
Ralph Forquera, Seattle Indian Health Board
Executive Director
Mr. Forquera has been working in the Indian health arena for many, many years and was one of the cofounders and an active member of the American Indian Health Commission. As Executive Director or
the largest urban Indian health organization in the state, Mr. Forquera brings another unique and critical
perspective to the Advisory Council table. He is actively and consistently sought both state-wide and
nationally to participate in Indian health issues and innovations. His expertise would be of great benefit
to the Exchange Board as a member of its Advisory Council.
73
AC Nominee: Tribal representative
Larry Cronin, Kalispel Tribe
I have discussed this submission with my supervisor here on the Kalispel Reservation and he is
supportive of my submitting my name for the Committee. The Kalispel Tribe would like to have a
representative on this Committee.
I have attended meetings of the Exchange Board and the previous temporary committees previous to
the Board, by phone, for the past year and a half. My background includes:
---Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1984;
---Medical Social Work at Sacred Heart, Spokane, including Psychiatric Social Work, seven years;
---rural Social Work practice here in Usk/Cusick and also Colville, Republic, Tonasket, Omak---Eastern
Washington, seven years;
---Substance Abuse Clinical Practice, Riverside and San Francisco, CA, four years;
---MSW Program administration, teaching graduate Social Work classes, Boise State University in Coeur
d’Alene, ID, full-time-four years;
---Director of Community Services, including Contract Health Services, Indian Health Services grant, here
in Usk, WA, 1.5 years;
Personal: In addition my wife and I have been foster parents and have adopted two drug affected
children. We have many years of working with the DSHS, Medicaid and Basic Health systems here in
Eastern Washington, as well as many years of “experience” from the consumer perspective in working
with the medical systems.
I think I could bring a rural, Eastern WA and Native perspective to these meetings, while also bringing a
mental health, substance abuse and parent/consumer approach, all of which I feel is desirable to have
represented on this Committee…..
Thank you for considering my request for participation on this Committee.
74
AC Nominee: Health care delivery system
Mary O. McWilliams, Puget Sound Health Alliance
Executive Director
Mary McWilliams was appointed Executive Director of Puget Sound Health Alliance in June 2008, after
three years on its Board. The Alliance is a non-profit collaborative among purchasers, providers and
plans to advance quality and affordability of healthcare through public reporting on healthcare system
performance and using that information to engage consumers, pilot new ways to pay providers, and
improve value..
Previously, Ms. McWilliams was President and CEO of Regence Blue Shield, PacifiCare of Washington,
and Providence Health Plans in Oregon. She started her career as the first Marketing Director of The
Rocky Mountain HMO.
Ms. McWilliams is a Board member and past Chair of the Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce, and
serves on the Board of the Safe Crossings Foundation, a grief support program for children, and as Board
Chair for the Seattle Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. She is also a Board member
of Puget Sound Energy.
Ms. McWilliams received a M.S. in health administration from the University of Colorado and a B.A. from
Wesleyan University, which also awarded her an honorary degree in 2006.
75
AC Nominee: Health insurance brokers
Carol Wilmes, Association of Washington Cities- Employee Benefit Trust
Program Manager
Carol Wilmes began her career with the Association of Washington Cities in August 1982. Since 1991,
Carol has directly managed the Employee Benefit Trust, offering medical, dental, vision, life, long-term
disability, employee assistance program and group long term care insurance to 240 cities and 45 special
purpose districts. In total, the Trust insures 37,000 employees and family members statewide.
Carol is a frequent resource for labor-management task forces addressing the complexities of health
care coverage, and has been involved in transition discussions at all levels of municipal government—
council meetings/retreats; union meetings; department head discussions; and joint labor/management
negotiations. Carol has testified at numerous interest arbitration and PERC hearings as an expert
witness, and has conducted presentations nationally on governmental entity health pools and public
sector health care trends.
76