Statement Of ACAP CEO Margaret A. Murray On The Nomination Of Marilyn Tavenner

Margaret A. Murray, Chief Executive Officer of the Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP), issued the following statement on the nomination of Marilyn Tavenner to lead the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services:
“Marilyn Tavenner is the right person to lead CMS, and this is the right time for her to lead it.
“ACAP and its 58 member Safety Net Health Plans have worked closely with CMS over the past year as we undertake the considerable efforts involved in implementing the Affordable Care Act. Our interactions with the agency have been characterized by a high level of professionalism and responsiveness; a willingness to listen to the concerns of Safety Net Health Plans; and a desire by the agency to help safety net stakeholders navigate the coming changes to the health care field.

"In just the next few months, many states will expand their Medicaid programs. Health insurance exchange marketplaces will stand up. CMS, states, and health plans will in many states embark on demonstration programs to better integrate care for dual eligibles. Each of these intiatives involves significant effort inside and outside of CMS, and of collaboration across the health care industry.
“The track record of the agency—and of Ms. Tavenner’s leadership—over the past year are the best argument for her confirmation as Administrator. Her steady, able leadership is exactly what the agency—and health care stakeholders—need going forward. We applaud President Obama for sending her name to the Senate for confirmation. We call upon the Senate to confirm her nomination as quickly as possible and practical.”
About ACAP
ACAP represents 58 nonprofit Safety Net Health Plans in 24 states, which collectively serve nearly ten million people enrolled in Medicaid, Medicare, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and other public health programs. For more information, visit www.communityplans.net.