Grand Rapids’ Priority Health has introduced Praveen Thadani as the company’s new president, effective in early January. The announcement comes after searching for a leader of the health plan, which serves more than 1 million members annually.
“Praveen is a transformative health care leader with extensive industry experience and a passion for innovation and developing talent,” says Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Spectrum Health, the integrated system that includes Priority Health. “His commitment to building relationships with members, employers, agents, and providers will help us maintain the momentum we have created as we continue working to provide affordable access to care and have a positive impact on the communities we serve.”
Thadani brings his 25-year health care experience in managing consumer, commercial, and government health products along with a successful background in development of value-based provider programs, new product development, plan innovation, and more. Early in his career, he helped develop the Interactive Health Insurance System that is designed to activate consumer decision-making at the point of service.
“Priority Health is a nationally recognized health plan with innovative products, digital solutions, and a strong leadership team,” says Thadani. “I’ve admired the work of Priority Health for many years, particularly its focus as a nonprofit company with a commitment to lowering the cost of care while focused on leveraging digital solutions, analytics, and integration to drive more personalized experiences that improve the health of the community. I am honored to have been selected for this role and am excited about collaborating to achieve the vision of personalized health made simple, affordable, and exceptional.”
Prior to joining Priority Health, Thadani held leadership roles with Humana, most recently serving as senior vice president of strategy, product, and medical cost. Thadani has led a multi-year commercial strategy that resulted in the launch of new programs and partnerships. His experience also includes 12 years with UnitedHealth Group and Optum.
Thadani holds a bachelor’s degree and Master of Public Health from the University of Illinois and a master’s degree in health systems management from Rush University.
“I’m confident Praveen’s leadership, broad experience, and appreciation for our integrated system will allow us to continue our excellent service and grow our membership,” says Michael Sytsma, board chair of Priority Health. “I believe that our thorough, national search to select the next president of Priority Heath has helped us identify a great leader in Praveen that will build on the success the company has already achieved.”
Thadani takes the role as new president after Joan Budden begins her retirement on Jan. 1, 2021. Budden has served as president and CEO of Priority Health since 2016.
Priority Health offers a broad portfolio of health benefits options for employer groups and individuals, including Medicare and Medicaid plans.
