THE VALUED VOICE

Today, Governor-elect Evers announced that Andrea Palm, a former top official at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under President Obama’s administration, has been named Wisconsin’s new DHS Secretary.  She will oversee DHS’ $12 billion annual budget, which includes the state’s Medicaid and other public benefits programs.

Palm served as Senior Counselor to the HHS Secretary from 2014-2017, implementing the Affordable Care Act and launching the first open enrollment for the Health Insurance Marketplace. Prior to joining the Obama administration, Palm worked five years as a health policy adviser to then-U.S. Senator Hillary Clinton.  

“Wisconsin is known for its consistently nation-leading quality health care, due in large measure to the hospitals, health systems, dedicated caregivers and health care professionals in this state,” said WHA President/CEO Eric Borgerding. “We have accomplished much, have much more to do, and look forward to meeting Secretary-Designate Palm and working with the Evers administration and the Legislature to preserve Wisconsin’s top-quality care, sustain the health insurance coverage gains we have made over the past four years and assure that those who gain coverage also have access to care.” 

Palm’s appointment must be confirmed by the Senate.