|
|
|
| For more information contact: Joe Thornton For immediate release DHHR bureau commissioner to lead national Medicaid organization Nancy V. Atkins, commissioner, Bureau for Medical Services, West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, was recently elected as chairperson to the National Association of State Medicaid Directors. The Executive Committee of NASMD has an active role in developing national health policy. She will represent NASMD on a national basis in meetings and correspondence with the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, in testimony before Congress and in discussions with other related organizations.Ms. Atkins has more than 30 years experience in the health care field, and has served as commissioner for BMS, the state Medicaid agency, since her appointment in May 2001 by Governor Bob Wise. She is a registered nurse practitioner with a master’s degree in nursing administration and is currently working toward her doctorate in holistic health sciences. "My passion has always been to affect positive change to the health care system, whether on an individual basis or for the larger population," said Atkins. "We have an incredible challenge before us with the continued decline in health status, the aging of our population and incredible fiscal challenges." Medicaid is the largest purchaser of health care for families and children in West Virginia and the nation. Its mission is to provide coverage for low-income children, families, seniors and people with disabilities. The program serves more than 300,000 West Virginians at a cost of nearly $2 billion per year. – 30 – |