November 7, 2012 -- We are incredibly pleased that Dr. Richard Popiel has joined Regence as our new Senior Vice President, Health Care Services and Chief Medical Officer for Regence Health Plans. Dr. Popiel has extensive strategic and operational experience across a diverse spectrum of health care settings. He has become well known for his ability to rethink how quality care is delivered and how to control costs - skills and experience that will positively impact the service and care our members receive.
Dr. Popiel will responsible for the following in this new role:
SVP Health Care Services -- Provide oversight of Regence Health Care Services Division comprised of more than 400 employees working to support the delivery of person-focused, coordinated, quality driven and economically sustainable care for 2.2 million members in Idaho, Oregon, Utah and Washington. Dr. Popiel succeeds John Stellmon in this role.
Chief Medical Officer -- Responsible for strategic medical affairs issues including developing physician networks, joint ventures, and physician relationships; recruiting physicians and physician groups; establishing fee for service management services; and establishing and implementing standards and policies to ensure the quality of the medical care provided to patients. Dr. Popiel succeeds Dr. Ralph Prows in this role.
Prior to joining Regence, Dr. Popiel served as president and chief operating officer at Horizon Healthcare Innovations, a Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey company. At the time of his appointment to Horizon Healthcare Innovations, he committed to serve the company for a term of two years. He completed that service in April, but remained until mid May to support a smooth transition for employees and the customers they serve.
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To read another press release issued by Regence, click here.
