James D. Forshee, M.D. named Chief Medical Officer of Priority Health

(GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Dec. 13, 2016) Priority Health, one of Michigan's largest health plans, announced today that James D. Forshee, M.D. has been named the new senior vice president of medical affairs and chief medical officer. Forshee will oversee medical policy and programming, as well as clinical strategies for the organization.

"We are delighted to welcome Dr. Forshee," said Joan Budden, president and chief executive officer of Priority Health. "He is a respected and revered industry veteran, who brings over 25 years of health care experience—both as a physician and executive. He will play a pivotal role in executing our long-term growth strategy and implement innovative tactics to improve patient care."

For the past 11 years, Forshee served as the vice president of medical affairs and chief medical officer for Molina Healthcare of Michigan. Forshee provided clinical leadership for all medical policies, clinical strategies, and medical management health care initiatives including pharmacy, quality improvement and key support for provider networks partnerships. Prior to this, he held executive level positions with United Healthcare, SelectCare, Centene, and Blue Care Network of Michigan. He recently in 2016 was also awarded the Ellis J. Bonner Outstanding Achievement Award by the Michigan Association of Health Plans for his exemplary service, leadership and contributions to the managed care industry and community.

Forshee is a member of the State of Michigan Drug Utilization Review, American College of Physician Executives, American Medical Association, Michigan State Medical Society and American Academy of Family Physicians. He earned his medical degree from Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, completed his residency at St. Joseph Hospital in family practice and is board certified in Family Medicine. Forshee also earned a master's of business administration degree from the University of Michigan, Physician Assistant degree from Trevecca Nazarene University, and his bachelor's degree from Olivet Nazarene University.

About Priority Health:

With over 30 years in business, Priority Health is the second largest health plan in Michigan, offering an extensive portfolio of health benefits options for employer groups and individuals, including Medicare and Medicaid plans. Serving more than 1.3 million members each year and offering a broad network of primary care physicians in Michigan, Priority Health continues to be recognized as a leader for quality, customer service, transparency and product innovation. Learn more about affordable, quality health coverage options from Priority Health.