Committees and Workgroups
Education/Communications Committee
Michael Echols, Vantage, Chair
(Open to health benefits members)
Works closely with LAHP staff to develop, plan and deliver high-quality educational events and programs. Advises LAHP on communications and promotional strategies. Oversees website development, social media management, and provides support for activities of other committees as needed.
Legislative Affairs Committee
Rachel Farmer, UnitedHealth Group, Chair
(Open to health benefits members)
Studies and recommends positions on proposed legislation. Provides input on regulatory issues. Assists in education of state legislators on health benefits. Called at times to testify at legislative hearings or to assist with lobbying in support of LAHP positions.
Medicaid Committee
Rick Born, Aetna Better Health of Louisiana, Chair
(Open to Medicaid health benefits members)
Guides the health benefits industry on matters related to the implementation and operation of Medicaid in Louisiana.
Medical and Pharmacy Director Forum
Ron Ritchey, MD, eQHealth Solutions, Chair
(Open to Medical and Pharmacy Directors of health benefits members)
Provides health benefits medical and pharmacy directors opportunities to discuss issues of common interest. Promotes initiatives to improve public health.
Membership Committee
Milam Ford, RPh, MBA, MPH, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Chair
(Open to all members)
Recruits LAHP members and promotes membership renewal. Makes recommendations on criteria for membership and dues structure. Oversees Partners programs.
Regulatory Affairs Committee
LaCosta Wix, UnitedHealthcare, Chair
(Open to health benefits members)
Acts as sounding board for the Louisiana Department of Insurance on regulatory and marketplace
issues affecting health benefits. Coordinates activities of health benefits industry workgroups on
specific regulatory issues.