Joseph Swedish, Bernard Tyson to lead America's Health Insurance Plans

Joseph R. Swedish, chairman, president and CEO of Anthem, will serve as chair of the board of America's Health Insurance Plans beginning in January 2017, AHIP announced a week before its annual meeting in Las Vegas.

In addition, Bernard J. Tyson, chairman and CEO of Kaiser Permanente, was elected to serve as chair for 2018, according to the AHIP's Board of Directors.

"Joe and Bernard are recognized leaders who will bring a strong vision for the industry's consumer-driven priorities over the next two years," said Marilyn Tavenner, AHIP president and CEO.

AHIP's Board of Directors also approved new changes to the association's dues and governance, representing the first major restructuring since 2003.

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AHIP provided no further details but said the changes establish a modernized dues and governance structure that allows the organization to build upon its strong track record and advocacy on behalf of its members and the consumers they serve.

The appointments of Swedish and Tyson come during a critical time ahead of the November election and new administration, the board said.

Swedish and Tyson will succeed Mark B. Ganz, president and CEO of Cambia Health Solutions, Inc.

Ganz said under the leadership of former Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Chief Marilyn Tavenner, AHIP is well-positioned to be among the drivers of change to transform the industry to one that is more consumer-focused and value-based.

"Joe and Bernard are the right leaders at the right time to advance these efforts moving forward, and I look forward to our work in the years ahead," Ganz said.

Swedish brings more than 40 years of healthcare expertise, including more than 25 years as CEO of several major health systems. He joined Anthem in 2013.

Tyson's tenure at Kaiser Permanente spans more than 31 years, becoming CEO in July 2013.

"This is a transformative moment for our industry, and AHIP plays a critical role in advancing the changes needed for a patient-focused health system for the benefit of all consumers," Swedish said.

"AHIP's advocacy is fundamental to bringing health plans together to determine how we can improve the U.S. health care system," Tyson said.

Twitter: @SusanJMorse