A board member of the Oklahoma Health Care Authority resigns due to a potential conflict of interest.
Susan Dell’Osso said in her November 1 resignation letter to Governor Kevin Stitt that she would be stepping down as of January 1. Board of Directors to eliminate potential conflicts of interest.
In the letter, Dell’Osso said, “As an Accenture employee, I serve state needs through a variety of services throughout the United States, but I cannot participate in state boards because of potential conflicts of interest.” Not allowed.
more:Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt accused of reforming state health board
Stitt appointed Dell’Osso to the board in September 2021 after dismissing two doctors who were serving on the board.
Dell’Osso and Gino DeMarco made changes to the Board on behalf of two physicians, Dr. Laura Shamblin and Dr. Jean Hausheer.DeMarco resigned From this summer’s board meeting and was Replaced by John Christ in August.
Stitt faced criticism for dismissing the doctor shortly after passing an emergency rule that would allow the state to move forward with Stitt’s plan to privatize the program and implement Medicaid Managed Care.
more:Oklahoma Legislature Approves Medicaid Managed Care Act
The Health Care Authority oversees a state Medicaid program called SoonerCare. Over 1 million Oklahoma citizens have health insurance through SoonerCare.
The regulation was later passed, and state legislatures have since approved legislation authorizing health care authorities to implement managed care programs and providing a framework for the authorities to do so.
Healthcare organizations are now seeking proposals from third parties to implement a new managed care model called SoonerSelect. The contract is expected to be awarded and announced in early 2023.
