News and press releases

Apr 16, 2016, 07:00 AM

PORTLAND, Ore. — After a five-month nationwide search, the CareOregon board of directors has chosen Eric C. Hunter, currently chief operating officer of Boston Medical Center Healthnet Plan, as CareOregon’s new president and chief executive officer.

”All 12 members of our board were actively engaged in the process,” said Vickie Gates, board chair. “And they unanimously support the decision to name Eric as the fourth CEO in our 22-year history.”

“We were seeking a leader who can bring fresh, innovative ideas to the task of health care integration, while retaining the spirit of collaboration, innovation and commitment to community that is at the heart of CareOregon,” said board member Glenn Rodriguez, MD, who chaired the search committee.

Hunter has held a number of leadership positions and has worked for community-based, provider-sponsored and not-for-profit health plans. He also brings experience with Medicaid programs and provider relations, as well as familiarity with mental and behavioral issues facing the community.

“Before this search began, I had already heard of the innovative and exciting changes to Medicaid being made in Oregon,” said Hunter. “As far back as the early 1990s, I actually had the chance to sit down with then-Governor Kitzhaber to learn about the budding Oregon Health Plan. Since CareOregon has always taken a leadership role in Oregon’s Medicaid system, I was familiar with its outstanding reputation for innovation and care support. I am very excited not only to join CareOregon, but to join Oregon’s vibrant health community.”

The board began its national search for a permanent CEO in fall 2015. Scott Clement was selected to lead the organization as interim CEO until a permanent replacement was named. Witt/Kieffer, an executive search firm, assisted the board during the hiring process.

“I would like to thank the board for its engagement in the CEO search process. Ensuring strong leadership for CareOregon is the board’s most important charge,” stated Vickie Gates, board chair. “The board extends its gratitude to Scott for guiding the organization during this time of transition, and to former CEO Patrick Curran, for his dedication to CareOregon over the past 4 years.”

Hunter will begin his new role on June 1, 2016. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from St. Leo University and a master’s degree in business administration from Northeastern University.