SEATTLE, WA — The Washington Health Alliance has named Dr. Drew Oliveira, a physician with four decades of experience in medicine and health plan leadership, its new executive director.
Following an extensive search, the Alliance’s 24-member board of directors voted to appoint Oliveira as the organization’s fourth executive director since its founding in 2004. Oliveira succeeds Nancy Giunto, who is retiring after eight years of leading the Alliance.
“The Board is excited about Drew’s unique qualifications as a community physician and as a health plan executive. As a seasoned Pacific Northwest healthcare leader, he aspires to elevate the quality, affordability, and accessibility of care access for all,” said Board Chair Curt Bailey, president and CEO of Bloodworks Northwest.
Bailey added: “Drew’s lengthy experience in medicine and health care leadership, along with his established connections with the Alliance, made him a natural fit to lead the organization as it continues to work with employers, health plans, and providers to increase affordable access to high-value health care.”
Oliveira, who recently served as Regence Blue Shield of Washington’s Senior Executive Medical Director and Population Health, has years of experience working alongside the Alliance as a former member of the board of directors, while also serving on Alliance committees. Oliveira previously served for 13 years in senior roles with Aetna Inc.
“There cannot be a more important objective for healthcare – improve the quality and access to appropriate care and at the same time make healthcare affordable for families and employers,” said Oliveira. “As an independent convener of purchasers, payers, providers, patients, and policymakers, the WHA is the only organization in a position to deliver on this promise for all Washingtonians.”
Oliveira earned his medical degree from the University of California, San Francisco. He holds a Master’s Degree in Health Care Administration from the University of Washington. Oliveira completed his family medicine residency at Swedish Hospital Medical Center. Oliveira held clinical positions at Sea Mar Community Health Center in Seattle and Valley Medical Center in Renton.
“I am so pleased to welcome Drew as my successor to lead the Washington Health Alliance. He has the right mix of experience, marketplace knowledge, and moxie, and I know he will be an inspirational and forward-thinking leader for the Alliance,” said Giunto.
A longtime resident of Washington state, Oliveira will start with the Alliance on Aug. 31.
“The board thanks Nancy for her years of stellar service and looks forward to working with Drew to provide value to the Alliance’s members and the residents of Washington State,” Bailey said.
To search for Giunto’s replacement, the Alliance board formed a committee that included Bailey, and members John J. Wagner, Carol Wilmes, Megan Pedersen, and Lloyd David. They were assisted in the search for a new executive director by Motus Recruiting, a Pacific Northwest-based firm.