New Director for Iowa’s Medicaid Program
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds hired her health policy adviser as the state’s Medicaid director.
On April 23, 2021, officials announced the new Director of Iowa’s Medicaid program. Governor Kim Reynolds named Elizabeth Matney as the new Director. The promotion was announced by the Iowa Department of Human Services.
Matney served as Gov. Reynold’s health policy advisor for approximately two years before being promoted to Medicaid Director. She will replace Mike Randol who left the position in August 2020 to return to a job in the private sector.
Elizabeth Matney’s Medicaid Experience
Matney has a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from Drake University. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and philosophy from Texas State University.
Before joining the Governor’s office in 2019, Matney served as Mike Randol’s top deputy. She served as the Medicaid managed care director. This role saw her coordinating with insurance companies that the state hired to administer benefits for Medicaid members.
This gave her experience overseeing the Medicaid program that finances $7 billion in health care annually. The Medicaid program provides care for approximately 700,000 disabled or poor Iowans. This accounts for over 20% of the state’s population.
Gov. Reynold’s Praise for Matney
During the announcement, Gov. Reynolds had high praise for Elizabeth Matney. She is confident in her ability to serve as the state’s Medicaid Director.
“Liz is known for strong leadership, relationship building and is passionate about supporting Iowans who depend on these important programs,” Governor Reynolds said. “Liz is also committed to equity and is driven to improve outcomes for all Iowans.”
She also stated that Matney was a “dynamic member” of her team.
Matney Committed to Leading
Elizabeth Matney is no stranger to the state Medicaid program. She is committed to leading the program and supporting the Iowans who rely on it.
“Medicaid is a large and complex program, full of nuance, rules, and regulation,” Matney said in the release. “But on the other end of that are people — people who rely on us to be there and meet their needs. I am committed to working with our team and providing the leadership needed to do just that.”
Matney is expected to start the position on June 1, 2021.
The VBP Blog is a comprehensive resource for all things related to value-based payments. Up-to-date news, informative webinars, and relevant blogs in the VBP sphere to help your organization find success.
More Trending Topics:
Value-Based Care Stories
Get even more VBP insights on LinkedIn & Twitter
The VBP Blog is a comprehensive resource for all things related to value-based payments. Up-to-date news, informative webinars, and relevant blogs in the VBP sphere to help your organization find success.